Bikes are built to withstand whatever the weather can throw at them when you’re out and about, but protecting them from the elements the rest of the time is a great way to prolong their life.
If you don’t have a garage, bike shed or space to store your bike indoors, a waterproof bike cover can help prevent rust as well as offer UV, dust and scratch protection. We’ve rounded up 10 bike covers to help you choose.
For more ideas on how to keep your bike safe, discover our list of the best bike locks tried-and-tested by the BikeRadar team. We’ll also help you find the best cycling insurance for your needs.
BikeParka The Stash Bike Cover
- 205cm (L) x 125cm (H) and will fit handlebars up to 60cm wide
The BikeParka is toggle adjustable, so can be shaped to fit the bike beneath it. It also has an elasticated wheel fit. Eyelets offer the opportunity to secure the cover with a padlock.
A PU coating and taped seams are features that help to make it watertight while also offering UPF50+ protection. Once you’re ready to hit the road, the BikeParka has its own Stuff Sac and the whole thing weighs just 400g, so won’t add too much bulk if you want to take it with you to protect your bike at work
Halfords Waterproof Multi Bike Cover
- 196cm (L) x 140cm (W) x 127cm (H)
Halfords claims you can fit up to four bikes under this bicycle cover. The hem is elasticated so just needs tucking under bike wheels. The fabric is claimed to be waterproof thanks to a TPU coating, but also breathable, preventing the build-up of condensation that can also cause rust if the bike is stored away when damp.
B'Twin Protective Bike Cover
- 180cm (L) x 123cm (W) x 123cm (H)
B’Twin’s bike cover comes with a two-year guarantee and is built to be compatible for all bikes (without a child’s seat) – it should even fit over baskets, mudguards and pannier racks.
There’s a handy Velcro fastening for securing the cover to the bike and to stop it blowing away in the wind. An elastic section at each end is used to tighten its fit around the bike’s wheels.
Beeway Multi Bike Cover
- 200cm (L) x 80cm (W) x 100cm (H)
This bike cover should be large enough to accommodate two adult bikes and is claimed to offer protection from heavy rain, snow, dust, scratches and sun.
A buckle in the middle and elasticated hems have been added to help keep it in place during windy conditions, and there are two eyelet holes through the front-wheel section to give you the option of adding extra security.
Faireach Waterproof Bike Cover
- 200cm (L) x 110cm (W) x 70cm (H)
Faireach has built in features to give this waterproof bike cover and your bike added security. There are two eyelets at the front wheels for threading a lock through, plus a buckle at the back wheel for keeping the cover in place.
Faireach has also thought about ease of use, adding two handles with guiding reflective strips to help you lift it on and off. There are three colours available, with prices starting at £20.
Raleigh Heavy Duty Nylon Bike Cover
- Dimensions not provided
This waterproof bike cover is made from nylon and is designed to offer heavy-duty protection for your bike if you don’t have a garage or indoor storage space.
It’s pretty simple in design, made of dark grey material and has a roomy fit for fitting over adult-sized bikes.
Oxford Aquatex Single Bike Cover
- 200cm (L) x 80cm (W) x 110cm (H)
Oxford is never subtle with its branding, but it does have a good reputation for its cycling equipment. The 100-denier polyester is ‘water resistant’ and offers protection from the sun’s UV light – so is perhaps a good option if your bike is stored under partial cover.
The fit is pretty simple and drapes over the bike. Where other waterproof bike covers have Velcro fastenings or loops for adding a lock, this one has none, but it does have a rain-resistant protective layer and barrier to scratches.
Challenge Heavy Duty Bike Cover
- 185cm (L) x 74cm (W) x 98cm (H)
Sometimes, the British weather can demand a heavy-duty bit of kit. This cover from Argos is designed to offer protection from frost in the winter months, as well as rain year-round.
The seams are not elasticated, so it should just hang over the frame of your bike.
Topeak Bike Cover
- 178cm (L) x 63cm (W) x 100cm (H)
The Topeak bike cover is available in three sizes, depending on what type of bike you have. It folds away into its own attached zip pack for easy compact storing when not in use.
When unwrapped, the front and back sections are elasticated to hug the wheels.
Storm Skin Bike Cover
- 220cm (L) x 70cm (W) x 140cm (H)
Storm Skin says the bike cover is made from 100 per cent recycled polyester, and features sealed seams. There are two holes in the fabric that allow for a lock to be threaded through the frame, and the front and back wheel.
Being certified to 3,000mm+ of precipitation, the Bike Cover should keep your bike dry in the toughest of conditions.
Bike cover buyer's guide
Which type of cover is best for you
The protection your bike needs will influence what cover you should look for. If you're storing your bike where it's exposed to the elements, you need to look for high levels of waterproofing if you don't want to find your beloved machine rusting away.
If kept indoors, or in a shed, the protection you need is lesser, only needing to fend off dust if you're not riding frequently.
When commuting, it can also be beneficial if the cover packs up for easy transport, which may rule out heavier-duty covers with higher levels of waterproofing.
What to look for in a bike cover
A bike cover needs to live up to its name. Making sure you get the right fit for your bike is key to protecting it, and while most covers are designed to fit even the largest of bikes, it's important to check the measurements of your machine before purchasing.
Lock holes are important if you're a commuter, or looking to leave your bike where you don't have eyes on it. While these pose a vulnerability to rain, it will enable you to protect your bike from the elements as well as thieves.
Adjustable cords will give you the best chance of making sure the cover fits your bike properly, while outlets for moisture will make sure ground water doesn't humidify the cover, tainting your bike's safe space.
