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I'd like to know if covers work well for motorcycle in cold weather, for example -20C. If not, is there an alternative option, assuming garage is not available?

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    Do they work for what purpose? Do you mean will covering it in cold weather provide some benefit other than keeping snow and sleet, etc. off of it?
    – mikes
    Commented Aug 8, 2014 at 21:52

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If your bike is sitting for long periods in extreme cold the cover will not help with cold exposure. Wind chill has no effect on inanimate objects. The cover design and material are the biggest factors determining whether or not it is suitable for long term use. As long as the humidity level is fairly low (as it would be in -20 degree temps) the cover won't promote rust. The issues with long term cover use are that if the cover is not a tight fit the wind will blow the cover against the finish and abrade the paint. Another potential issue is that moisture can become trapped under the cover and actually promote corrosion issues. It is important that the cover be of a breathable material. That means that moisture won't penetrate the outside but can evaporate from the inside similar to the way Gortex works.

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  • It does not have to be a 'breathable' material, it just needs to have adequate ventilation. The problem with materials like Gore-Tex is that they breath in both directions, so moisture can get in, too. I know this from riding in rain with Gore-Tex riding gear - the rain seeps through. Dowco, Nelson-Rigg, and others make suitably well-ventilated covers. If it is not expected for the cover to protect from any rain storms, it would be fine, but otherwise, get something waterproof with vents.
    – Paul
    Commented Aug 9, 2014 at 21:42

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