How to Store a Motorcycle in a Storage Unit: Tips & Tricks

Finding a good storage solution is one of the most important things you can do to prevent your motorcycle from being stolen. 

However, if you live in an apartment or simply lack the space to safely store and secure your bike, you may be wondering what your options are. 

One thing to consider may be using a storage unit.

Storage units can be a great choice for storing your motorcycle:

• They’re secure in the unit itself and inside the fences of the facility. 
• Some storage units are completely sealed and climate controlled. 
• Most storage facilities will have 24 hour surveillance and personnel on site. 
• The size storage unit you’ll need for a motorcycle is generally affordable. 

Continue reading to learn more about some of the requirements and considerations when keeping your motorcycle in a storage unit. 

Can you store a motorcycle in a storage unit?

Yes, it is possible to store your motorcycle inside a storage unit. 

However, the exact rules and regulations will vary from business to business. 

Different storage facilities will have different rules regarding whether or not (or how) you are allowed to store vehicles inside their units.

Before you book something, be sure to check with the rules for that particular business. 

If you plan to do it anyway, you can always take to Reddit to confirm that plenty of people have successfully used storage units to store their bikes regardless of what the facility’s rules state. 

Requirements for Using a Storage Unit for Your Motorcycles

Before you book a unit for your bike, you should be aware of the common requirements and rules most places will have regarding motorcycles. 

1. Proof of Ownership

First, most storage facilities will require you to provide proof of ownership in order to store your bike. 

This typically requires you to show your certificate of title and/or registration documents. 

If you’ve bought a motorcycle without a title, this can be a problem. 

You can learn more about titling and registering your motorcycle here. 

This requirement is generally to deter thieves from using the storage facility as a place to keep stolen bikes. 

2. Proof of an Adequate Insurance Policy

Many storage units will also require an adequate insurance policy on the bike. 

This will typically come in the form of some sort of comprehensive motorcycle insurance coverage, which protects you when your bike is damaged from things other than collisions. 

When you have your own coverage, the storage facility will generally feel that they are less liable for any damage that occurs while your bike is stored on their property.

Thinking about canceling your motorcycle insurance policy when storing your bike long-term? Before you do, check out our article on lay-up motorcycle insurance. 

3. Running Motorcycle

Some storage units will only allow you to keep running vehicles on the premises. 

If you’re working on a project motorcycle, this requirement may be a deal breaker. 

However, it’s not a universal rule, so it may be best to contact different storage facilities near you to check if they will accept bikes that don’t run. 

4. No Wrenching

Almost every storage unit will have rules against working on vehicles on the property. 

If you need to work on your bike, you’ll typically need to do it off-site. 

Storage Unit Options for Motorcycles

Depending on the facility you choose, you’ll typically have 2 main options when it comes to keeping your motorcycle there:

• Indoor storage inside a locked storage unit.
• Covered storage in a protected motorcycle parking lot.

Storing the bike inside a storage unit is generally best when you need to store it for the winter or the off-season. Ease of regular access to the bike will vary from facility to facility. 

Covered and protected parking may be offered by a storage facility in your area. This will give you the security benefits, but will allow you to more easily access and ride your bike when you want. 

Storage Unit Costs

Depending on where you live, you can usually find a large enough storage unit for a motorcycle for anywhere from $60 to $300 per month. 

The further you go from major metros, the cheaper you’ll be able to find storage.  

What Size Storage Units Will Fit a Motorcycle?

The smallest size storage unit that will easily fit a motorcycle is usually a 5’ x 10’. 

If you need to store multiple bikes, larger motorcycles, or other items along with your bike, a 10′ x 10’ or 5’ x 15’ storage unit may be a better option. 

You’ll also want to make sure the unit you choose has ground-floor drive-up access. 

Tips for Storing Your Bike

Before you select a storage facility and unit size for your motorcycle, you should consider whether or not you’ll need access to the bike. 

Some facilities will allow you to access and ride your motorcycle more easily than others. 

Be sure to look into things like:

• Gate access hours. 
• Whether or not you can ride in and out of the storage unit. 
• Lease terms. 
• Holiday closures. 

If you plan on storing your motorcycle long-term, you may have more options to choose from. 

When you store your bike for long periods of time, you’ll want to make sure to do so properly. This includes:

• Performing a routine tune up.
• Changing the oil. 
• Topping off the gas tank and adding fuel stabilizer. 
• Disconnect the battery. (It may be a good idea to take the battery with you to keep it charged through the off-season).
• Fill up the tires to the maximum pressure.
• Elevate the bike on the center stand, a bike stand, or lift. 

And, even if your bike will be kept inside an indoor storage unit, it can still be a good idea to put a quality cover over it.  

Find more tips for winterizing your motorcycle.