Motorcycle Storage

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Whether you own a Harley-Davidson and like to bring out the black leather jacket and boots and bandanas every weekend, or if you’re a speed demon who likes to scorch up the interstates over 120 mph, motorcycle owners have attitude to spare. You also like to keep your most prized possession locked up tight. If you don’t trust your neighbors or the gang members who are roaming the streets of your community, or if you just don’t have room in your garage, you will need a safe, clean and cost-effective place to store your bike. That’s where Self Storage Finders comes in.

Self Storage Finders has a huge, searchable online database of storage units. You can find a unit anywhere, coast-to-coast, that suits your needs, and that specifically cater to motorcycle owners. Type in your ZIP code in the search bar and get going—the list is generated for you of all the nearby storage units, along with price, location and other amenities.

Storage units come in all shapes and sizes, not to mention those with climate controlling (i.e., air conditioning), and extra layers of security. Self Storage Finders’ database covers more than 2.5 billion square feet of rentable self-storage space in the U.S. You are certain to find the perfect place to park that chopper, dirt bike or Kawasaki Ninja that tops 200 mph.

WHO NEEDS THIS TYPE OF STORAGE?

This should go without saying, but...
  • Easy Rider
  • the guys from CHiPs (1970s TV show about motorcycle-riding cops in Southern California, for those not in the know)
  • the Fonz (another nod to the 70s)
  • Jay Leno (who allegedly owns more than 100 motorcycles).

Aside from the obvious list of suspects, you also probably need motorcycle storage if your garage is cramped and you use your automobile more than your bike. Maybe a storage unit could also come in handy if you just dropped $50,000 on a bike and you don’t want your significant other to know about your profligate spending habits.

WHO DOESN’T NEED THIS TYPE OF STORAGE?

Those persons who are not candidates for motorcycle storage include, but is not limited to:
  • The guys from Dukes of Hazzard (one more 70s pop-culture reference), since the General Lee is most definitely a car and not a motorcycle.
  • Adults who don’t possess a valid, state-issued license for driving a motorcycle.
  • Adults who do not know how to crank a motorcycle.
  • Hard-working adults who barely can afford a car payment for their daily commute and can’t splurge on a recreational vehicle like a motorcycle.
  • Convicted felons who aren’t going to be getting out of prison for at least a decade.

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT STORING A MOTORCYCLE

What documentation is required?

This part is easy. Just bring in your state-issued or government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or U.S. passport. In addition, bring ID cards for your motorcycle insurance, as well as state vehicle registration documents. Your AAA membership card isn’t necessary, unless the self-storage facility you have selected give AAA discounts. An AARP card might also get you a discount, but it isn’t necessary for paying for your unit.

What are the chances of being locked out of my storage unit?

Aside from not paying your rent on time, you aren’t likely to get locked out of your unit. Unless, of course, you forget your key, show up at the wrong facility, buy a unit at a facility that does not provide 24/7/365 access and you arrive in the middle of the night, or forget the code on your combination lock.

What happens if you pay your rent late?

Most self-storage facilities consider payments late if they come in between five and 30 days after the first of the month. Customers who default on their rent will be locked out of their unit by the premises manager. Further delays in payments (or bounced checks) can lead to the loss of your vehicle, as law allows storage facilities to repossess your motorcycle and auction off your vehicles.

If such an unfortunate instance does occur, you can say bye-bye to your Moto Guzzi V7 750 Speciale, Yamaha XS750, Ducati 860 GT or Husqvarna 250WR.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR MOTORCYCLE FOR STORAGE

  • Add some new fuel to your gas tank, then add some fuel stabilizer on top of that. STP, Lucas Oil and plenty more companies offer fuel stabilizer products. Drop by your local car parts store to find it.
  • Fill up fluids like the brake, clutch and coolant fluids. Or, drain all fluids completely. Do an oil change. This will prevent corrosion or oxidation damage to your engine. Unless the motorcycle belongs to your ex, in which case maybe you want that damage to occur.
  • Disconnect the battery if you plan on storing your bike for more than two weeks. It’s a good idea to drop by the storage unit every so often and take the bike out for a spin; if you are going to be out of the country, ask a friend to do it (if you trust them).
  • Inflate the tires.
  • Lock down the motorcycle.
  • Buy a canvas dust cover and completely cover the motorcycle to prevent dust from entering the engine or exhaust pipes.
  • Spray your exhaust pipes with WD-40 to keep out unwanted moisture and rust.