If you use a bicycle for transportation or for fun every weekend, you’ll want to keep it in good condition. Another great way that is very usual to protect the bicycle from adverse weather conditions and dirt is by using bicycle covers. In this article, we will discuss why you should get a bike cover, what to know before you get that cover and some of the types of bike covers for different bicycles.
Why is a bicycle cover needed?
Bicycle covers are said to protect your bicycle from different aspects of the environment. Each weather element can cause damage over time: rain damage within 5 years, snow damage within 3 years, and sun damage within 1 year. Rain can corrode the components of bicycles, snow can freeze them, and ultraviolet rays can discolor the particles of paint and make the materials brittle. A bicycle cover provides a shield against such conditions and, therefore, can be used to increase the lifecycle of the bicycle.
Types of bicycle covers
Bicycle covers are of different types and may be made of different materials. Here are some common types:
- Waterproof Covers: These are fabricated from materials with which the penetration of water is not possible, for example, polyester or nylon with a waterproof surface applied. They thus can effectively be used to cover your bike against such weather as rain and snow.
- UV-resistant Covers: This category of covers, applied to protect the vehicle from hazardous ultraviolet radiation, prevents fading and deterioration due to constant exposure to sunlight.
- All-weather Covers: The covers are so designed that they shall protect from water as well as UV rays and thus from all kinds of weather.
- Indoor Covers: For indoor stored bicycles or those that are covered while not in use, a thin cover will protect the dust, among other small contacting injuries.
Selecting the Appropriate Bike Cover
While choosing a bike cover, you will bear in mind the following factors:
- Size and Fit: Check that the cover you will buy is going to be a perfect fit for your bike. A small cover won’t afford protection to the bike; likewise, if it is too large, it will be blown away or caught in the wind. Most covers are variable in dimensions and can hence fit into road bikes, mountain bikes, or any other type.
- Material Quality: The materials to be used should be hard enough to bear the rough climatic conditions that prevail in most places. Though the fabric covers are cheap, they aren’t of the same durability as polyester or nylon covers that are of superior quality.
- Ease of Use: The ease of placing the cover on and taking it off will mean that one will spend little time on it. Choose models that are comfortable to wear and equipped with such bonuses as the presence of an elastic band on the waist for a better fit.
Advantages of Having a Bicycle Cover
Using a bicycle cover has several benefits, as mentioned in the following points:
- Protection from Weather: As discussed above, this cover protects the bike from rain, snow, and sun and thus the physical condition of the bike.
- Prevention of Dust and Dirt Accumulation: The maintenance of bikes is important in making them remain clean and free from dust and other things that may accumulate on them. This might reduce the rate of maintenance and cleaning required in most cases.
- Theft Deterrent: It may not be the best form of security, but it helps in reducing the bike’s visibility and hence scaring away the potential thief.
- Improved Durability: A cover also helps to safeguard your bike from harsh weather conditions and hence assures a longer lifespan and perfect condition of the machine.
Other measures for the protection of bikes
There are general two-wheel vehicle covers available for bicycles, as well as specific covers designed for motorcycles and scooters. A motorcycle cover, for instance, is meant only for motorcycles but provides the same kind of protection bicycle covers do. These covers are usually bigger and, in most cases, add-on options may be offered that might be needed specifically for motorcycles such as increased venting and more robust fabrics.
Conclusion
All in all, a bike cover is a must since it protects the bike from bad weather. While a bicycle rain cover protects against rain and a UV-protective bicycle cover guards against the scorching sun, there are notable differences between them. These differences can affect the bike’s longevity and ease of maintenance. Now, if you have a motorcycle or a scooter, you can go for the Motobike Cover, which will work well as an alternative to the premium cover for protection against elements in your car. With these measures, your bicycle shall be ensured to be in good condition for many more rides.
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