A motorcycle cover should suit more than the bike's length. Windshield shape, handlebar width, luggage and rear accessories all affect how the fabric sits. Two motorcycles with similar overall dimensions can require different cover patterns because their body profiles differ.

Before exploring our motorcycle and powersports storage covers , use the steps below to build a practical measurement record and narrow your options.

What You Need Before Measuring Your Motorcycle

Prepare a tape measure and a notepad or phone for recording dimensions. A helper can make it easier to hold the tape straight without leaning across the motorcycle or disturbing its balance.

• Use level ground: Measure where the motorcycle can remain stable in its normal storage position.
• Keep storage accessories fitted: Leave saddlebags, a windshield or other equipment installed if they will remain on the motorcycle beneath the cover.
• Record the motorcycle details: Note the make, model, year and body style alongside your measurements.
• Identify modifications: List aftermarket luggage, replacement mirrors, taller screens and extended racks separately.

How to Measure a Motorcycle for a Cover

1. Measure the Overall Length

Record the straight horizontal distance between the foremost and rearmost points that the cover must accommodate. Include fitted equipment that extends beyond the usual body outline, such as a rear luggage rack or top case.

Keep the tape straight rather than following the curves of the bodywork. If the manufacturer's motorcycle cover size guide specifies particular measuring points, use those reference points when comparing your result.

2. Check the Widest Points

Measure across the handlebars or mirrors and across the outer edges of the saddlebags. Record both measurements when they differ. A wide front end and wide rear luggage place different demands on the cover's shape.

Do not assume a cover that accommodates the handlebars will also fit large touring luggage. Look for a stated saddlebag-width allowance when choosing a motorcycle cover with saddlebags.

3. Record the Total Height

Measure vertically from the ground to the highest point that remains fitted during storage. Depending on your motorcycle, this may be the windshield, a mirror or a rear luggage component.

Record the actual storage configuration. If an accessory is removed every time the motorcycle is covered, note that clearly rather than mixing measurements from different setups.

4. Check Windshield Clearance Separately

Some motorcycle covers distinguish between no/low windshields and taller windshield configurations. A cover can match the bike's length while still having the wrong profile around the screen.

Where a product lists a windshield-height limit, confirm how that height is measured. Do not compare a windshield-only measurement with the total distance from the ground to the top of the screen.

5. Note Accessories That Change the Outline

Top cases, backrests, rear racks and other additions can create clearance requirements that are not captured by a simple length measurement. Record their height, width and position, then ask whether the exact cover pattern accommodates them.

Why Touring, Cruiser and Sport-Bike Covers Fit Differently

A touring motorcycle often carries more volume around the rear luggage area. A cruiser may have a different handlebar position and windshield profile, while a sport bike places its bodywork and high points differently.

These differences explain why a touring motorcycle cover should be selected by body style and accessory configuration as well as dimensions. Extra length does not necessarily provide the right clearance in the right place.

A Product Example: Check Every Part of the Fit Description

The full dress touring motorcycle cover for no/low windshields lists a 102-inch length and saddlebag width up to 36 inches.

Those figures are useful, but the no/low windshield designation is equally important. A motorcycle that matches the length reference may still require another pattern if its windshield or luggage configuration differs.

Use the complete product description and fit guidance before ordering. Treat the measurements as selection references rather than a promise that every motorcycle within those dimensions will fit.

Common Motorcycle Cover Sizing Mistakes

• Choosing by engine size: Engine capacity does not describe external dimensions, windshield height or luggage width.
• Measuring the bare motorcycle: Accessories that remain installed must be included in your fit assessment.
• Automatically buying a larger size: Extra fabric may create a loose fit without solving a profile mismatch.
• Confusing storage with transport use: A securing strap alone does not establish that a motorcycle cover is suitable for trailering.

The referenced motorcycle-cover range is intended for storage only. Verify intended use separately from fit when comparing motorcycle storage-cover options .

Motorcycle Cover Measurement FAQs

Should I measure my motorcycle with the saddlebags installed?

Yes, if they will remain fitted during storage. Record the overall width across their outer edges and compare it with any stated luggage allowance.

Can I choose a motorcycle cover by make and model alone?

Model information can help identify suitable options, but aftermarket accessories can change the fit. Check the manufacturer's model guidance alongside your motorcycle's actual configuration.

Does a bigger cover always provide better coverage?

No. A larger cover can leave unnecessary loose fabric while still failing to match the windshield, handlebars or luggage profile. Follow the exact fit guidance.

What should I do if the windshield measurement is unclear?

Ask which reference points the manufacturer uses. Send your motorcycle details, screen information and measurements before purchasing rather than guessing.