Motorcycle Storage | Sheds Or Garages?

As the air cools and the season begins to change, it is hard to believe there are only a few more rides left for the summer. But this year is different. This is the year you want to set up your motorcycle storage correctly. No more tarps. No more renting a storage locker. And you certainly don’t want to call your mom to use her garage again.

It’s time to get your motorcycle storage set up the way you have always dreamed of. Have you ever considered purchasing a shed or garage to do this? Either one of these buildings will be a great option. However, you may find that you favor one over the other. So let’s dive into which structure would be better for motorcycle storage.

What Is The Best Way To Store A Motorcycle?

The best way to store your motorcycle is in a garage or a shed. Some may say that a fabric building would be sufficient. However, if you are anything like us, your motorcycle is just as important as your car (or maybe even more important). For that reason, we recommend that you store your motorcycle in a proper garage or shed. This will allow you to have a sturdy structure built to keep your valuables safe and secure. If you don’t think that you want a full-size garage or shed, consider building a structure like the one seen in the video above! 

Can I Store My Motorcycle Outside Long Term?

No. While some people may say you can store your motorcycle outside long-term, it is not best for your bike. Unlike your car, a motorcycle can deteriorate more easily under inclement weather conditions. This is because while a car’s interior and engine have additional coverage and protection, a motorcycle is not easily taken care of without additional coverage from some kind of structure.

Can I Ever Store My Motorcycle Outside?

Yes, you can store your motorcycle outside from time to time. An acceptable time to store your motorcycle outside would be after arriving at your location. However, if you know inclement weather is on the way, make sure that you have a motorcycle cover along with you to protect your bike. 

How Large Of A Shed Or Garage Do I Need To Store My Motorcycle?

When you set up your motorcycle storage area, you should have 1 foot of extra space in front and in the back of the cycle. You should also have 3 feet on either side of the bike to easily mount and dismount your bike. All of our structures are built to a minimum of 8 feet in width. So no matter what size building you end up with, your motorcycle should comfortably fit into the shed or garage. However, if you desire a larger width, take a look at our garages and sheds to see what fits your need best. Check out the chart below to see how much space you need for the top 15 motorcycles of 2023.

MotorcycleWheel BaseMinimum Shed Size NeededComfortable Shed SizeMinimum Garage Size Needed
2023 Yamaha MT-1055.1″8×812×1212×16
2023 Honda CBR300R53.3″8×812×1212×16
2023 Honda Rebel 50058.7″10×1012×1212×16
2023 Yamaha Ténéré 70062.8″12×1212×1612×16
2023 Aprilia RS 66053.9″8×812×1212×16
2023 Triumph Bonneville T12057.09″8×812×1212×16
2023 Harley-Davidson Road Glide64″12×1212×1612×16
2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R62.2″12×1212×1612×16
2023 BMW S 1000 RR57.4″10×1012×1212×16
2023 Ducati Panigale V4R57.91″12×1212×1612×16
2023 Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition60.1″12×1212×1612×16
2023 Kawasaki Ninja 65055.5″10×1012×1612×16
2023 Honda SCL50058.4″12×1212×1612×16
2023 KTM 390 Adventure56.3″10×1012×1412×16
2023 Kawasaki KLR650 S59.6″12×1212×1612×16

Should My Motorcycle Be Stored With A Full Or Empty Tank?

Your motorcycle should be stored in an empty tank for long-term storage. On the other hand, if you use your bike regularly, you store your bike in your storage area with a full tank. We would recommend that if you plan on not using a bike for over 2 weeks, your gas tank is empty when using your motorcycle storage area.

What is Better For Motorcycle Storage, A Shed or Garage?

Choosing between a shed or a garage for motorcycle storage depends on personal preference. A Garage is an excellent option if you prefer to have a roll-up garage door and some extra space to store other odds and ends. On the other hand, if you need to be a bit more size, conscious a shed may be a better option for you. So let’s take a look at what building style suits your needs the best.

Sheds For Motorcycle Storage

Pros of Sheds For Motorcycle Storage

Smaller Building Sizes Available

Perhaps you have a smaller motorcycle than the ones we listed above. Or maybe you even have a moped scooter that you need to store. If so, a storage shed may be the perfect motorcycle storage solution for you. Additionally, smaller building options mean that you can take up less yard space to store your cycle.

Customization

Having the customizations you need for your motorcycle storage area is very important. A storage shed will afford you a bit more diversity regarding appearance. As well as afford different sizing options to make the best of your motorcycle storage area. Imagine having multiple doors, windows, or even a lofted space.

Door options

While a roll-up door can be very nice, having door options is equally as nice to fit your needs. Depending on the size of the motorcycle, you may realize that you can have a smaller door or may need a larger door. This is where choosing a shed can allow you to have a door as small as 36” (3 ft.)  or the whole way up to 96” (8ft.)

Cons Of Sheds For Motorcycle Storage

No Roll-Up Door On Some Shed Options

Depending on the size of the shed you choose, you may not be able to have the size door you desire. Especially that of a roll-up door or larger door overall. This may then inhibit your ability to put a larger motorcycle in your motorcycle storage shed because of the smaller threshold.

Less Robust Floors

Did you know that the average motorcycle weighs between 300-500 pounds and can be even heavier than that? While a storage shed can handle a lot of weight, a shed’s floor joists are spaced 16”-on–center. While this is to residential standards, you may feel more comfortable with a garage that has its floor joist spacing at 12”-on-center.

Garages For Motorcycle Storage

Pros Of Garages For Motorcycle Storage

Larger Sizes

What do you think of when having a motorcycle storage area? A place where you can barely squeeze into it? Or a place that is of comfortable size. One that is easy to ride directly into with some additional storage for your helmet and saddle bags? When you select a garage like ours, you are granted an area to easily get into the building, as these structures start at a size of 12×16.

Roll-up Doors

As we alluded to earlier, it is nice to be able to roll right into your motorcycle storage area. The easiest way to do that is by having a roll-up garage door. Our garages come standard with a garage door, making getting into your space much easier. 

Stronger Flooring

When you consider a portable garage for motorcycle storage, you get the added peace of mind of a more robust floor. Our garages offer floor joists that are 12”-on-center, giving you an ultra-strong floor. So no matter if you have a larger custom Harley or several smaller scooters, a garage can handle the weight of these items with no issue.

Cons Of Garages For Motorcycle Storage

Larger Size Commitment

The biggest con with a garage for motorcycle storage is that they take up more space. This may not be an issue if you live in a more rural area with some land. However, if you have a smaller property or have HOA rules that govern the sizes of additional structures, a building of a larger size may be an issue.

Higher Cost

When you look at adding a garage for your motorcycle storage, the price of a garage may be more expensive than a shed. This is because garages require more materials than a shed to construct. This may mean that you have to choose between a smaller garage with more features or a larger garage with fewer features.

What Kind Of Accessories Does My Shed or Garage Need For Motorcycle Storage?

To best use your garage or shed, we highly recommend having a set of ramps. We offer aluminum ramps to be able to get your motorcycle in and out of storage with ease. On the other hand, if you desire to save some money, you may want to check out our blog on how to build your own shed ramps.

Can I use My Motorcycle Storage Solution To Store My Car?

Yes, you can store your motorcycle and vehicle in the same building. Most people who have a motorcycle also have a car, truck, or SUV. To make storing all of your vehicles easy, we recommend that you look at garages that start at 12×30. This way, you can have adequate space for vehicle storage with additional space for odds and ends. You also will need a garage due to proper weight distribution.

Are You Ready For The Ride Of Your Life?

No one wants to hit the road and get a flat. Being able to have a fun ride with your friends all starts with having your motorcycle appropriately stored. At Gold Star Buildings, we are committed to creating the motorcycle storage you need. When you are ready to get started on creating your motorcycle storage solution, get started on our 3D Builder. Until then, ride safe, wear your helmet, and we will see you on the road.

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