Find The Best Protective Honda Valkyrie Covers For Your Bike

An Overview of Honda Valkyrie Covers

For Honda Valkyrie owners, finding the right protective cover is an important consideration. Valkyries are powerful, iconic motorcycles that deserve proper shielding from the elements when not in use. In this article, we'll provide an in-depth look at Honda Valkyrie covers - from materials and sizing to top recommendations from leading brands.

The Appeal of the Honda Valkyrie

The Honda Valkyrie has long been a favorite among serious motorcycle enthusiasts. Known for its powerful 1520cc flat-six engine and muscular styling, the Valkyrie manages to straddle the line between cruiser and touring bike. It provides an aggressive, muscular look and feel while still offering rider comfort and storage capacity for longer trips.

Valkyries were in production from 1996 to 2003, and remain popular today as used motorcycles. Their six-cylinder engine delivers a unique sound and abundant torque - especially the later F6C models. And the styling stands out from the crowd, with an avant-garde look inspired by Honda's concept bikes of the 1990s.

Overall, the Valkyrie offers a bold presence matched with cruiser capability. It's easy to see why owners are eager to protect their bike's finish and keep it looking its best.

Why Use a Cover?

Outdoor motorcycle storage can expose your bike to sun, wind, rain, pollen, tree sap and other elements that hasten wear and deterioration. Even storing in a garage, temperature fluctuations and humidity over time can degrade surfaces and finishes.

A properly fitting cover protects your Valkyrie's bodywork and components while parked. Materials like durable fabrics or vinyls shield the bike from dust, debris, scratches and UV rays. Water-resistant and weatherproof materials prevent moisture from penetrating and causing rust or corrosion.

Just as you would protect an expensive car with a cover, so too should motorcycle owners shield their bike's expensive paint, chrome and other surfaces from damage. The right cover saves you from countless headaches down the road.

Types of Covers

Honda Valkyrie covers come in three main types, providing various degrees of protection. Here's a rundown of what's available:

• Dust Covers: As the name suggests, these covers are designed to guard against dust accumulation and minor abrasions from wind and debris. Made from soft, breathable fabrics like flannel or microfibers. Minimal water resistance.
• Water-Resistant Covers: These covers use coated polyester or vinyl materials that repel moisture while still allowing airflow. Ideal protection from rain and snow, although not entirely waterproof in heavy weather.
• Weatherproof Covers: Constructed from heavy-duty vinyls or polyurethane-coated materials, weatherproof covers are fully waterproof and moisture-resistant. The best option for outdoor uncovered parking in rainy or snowy regions.

Additional cover features like integrated tie-downs, reflective panels and locking grommets may also be desirable depending on your specific storage situation and security concerns.

Finding the Right Fit

An improperly fitted cover can blow loose, allowing moisture and dust to penetrate. When selecting a Valkyrie cover, make sure to choose your exact model year, as designs changed notably over the years. Custom covers tailored specifically to your bike will provide the best fit.

Key measurements like overall length, width at handlebars, windshield height and exhaust pipe clearance must be accurate. Check product details and user reviews to confirm a proper shape and snug fit. A loose cover can whip around in the wind, damaging your paint in the process.

Designed-to-fit covers from reputable brands are worth the extra investment. Avoid generic one-size-fits-all motorcycle covers that won't adequately shield your Valkyrie's unique contours and detailing.

Top Honda Valkyrie Cover Recommendations

When selecting a cover for your beloved Valkyrie, you can't go wrong with one of these top options:

• Dowco Guardian WeatherAll Plus: Dowco is renowned for motorcycle covers, and the Guardian WeatherAll Plus line represents its flagship product. This heavy-duty weatherproof cover is breathable yet fully waterproof, with integrated tie-downs and reflective safety panels. Custom-patterned for excellent fitment.
• Nelson Rigg Deluxe All-Season: Also custom-fitted for Valkyries, the Nelson Rigg Deluxe cover is water-resistant while remaining breathable and abrasion-free. Its polyester build stands up to UV rays while elasticized hem and grommets keep the cover securely in place.
• Formosa Covers: For dust protection and indoor use, Formosa Covers offers custom USA-made covers shaped specifically for Valkyries. Available in soft flannel or smooth polycotton, these covers help keep your bike clean in the garage.

For extra assurance, opt for a cover backed by a warranty from the manufacturer. And check user reviews from other Valkyrie owners to confirm quality and proper fitment.

Proper Cover Use and Care

To get the most out of your bike cover, be sure to follow these usage and care tips:

• Check for rips or tears periodically, and repair or replace covers at first sign of deterioration.
• Allow the motorcycle to fully cool before covering, to prevent heat buildup and potential paint warping.
• Use integrated strap systems or tie-downs to properly secure the cover in windy conditions.
• Avoid dragging or sliding the cover over painted surfaces when installing or removing.
• Brush off dust or dirt before applying the cover to prevent abrasion damage.
• Follow any washing and care instructions from the manufacturer to maximize cover lifespan.

Safeguard Your Ride

Your Honda Valkyrie represents a significant investment, not to mention hours upon hours of maintenance and pride of ownership. Protect that investment and keep your bike looking its best with a cover designed specifically for your make and model.

Take the time to research materials, fitment, warranties and overall quality when selecting a cover. Your Valkyrie deserves the best protection possible from the elements. With the right cover installed when parked, you can rest assured your bike stays looking as good as the day you bought it.

FAQs

What are the benefits of using a motorcycle cover?

Motorcycle covers protect the bike's finish from sun damage, oxidization, fading, and cracking. They also guard against scratches, water spots, bird droppings, tree sap, and other environmental hazards when the bike is parked.

How do I choose the right cover for my Valkyrie?

Select a cover designed specifically for your Valkyrie's model year and body contours. Check exact sizing guides and user reviews to ensure a proper snug fit. Avoid generic one-size-fits-all covers.

Should I get a waterproof or water-resistant cover?

If your Valkyrie is parked uncovered for long periods, choose a waterproof vinyl cover. If mainly garaged, water-resistant fabrics provide good outdoor protection for shorter durations.

How often should I replace my bike cover?

Inspect covers periodically for tears or deterioration, and replace at first signs of wear - usually every 2-3 years with proper use. Keeping your cover clean and cared for extends its lifespan.

Can I put a cover on a hot motorcycle?

Always allow your Valkyrie to fully cool before covering, to prevent heat buildup from damaging the paintwork or windshield.