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Yes, you can leave your motorcycle in the rain now and then. Motorcycles are built to be ridden in wet weather, and a night or two outside won’t hurt a healthy bike. But leaving it out in the rain regularly speeds up rust and corrosion, wears the chain faster, can let water into electrical connectors, the airbox and the exhaust, and soaks the seat. If your bike has to live outside, a breathable waterproof cover, a corrosion protectant and a quick routine after wet rides will prevent most problems. A bike parked outside is also a theft target, so see our picks for the best motorcycle alarms.
What rain does to a parked motorcycle
| Part | What can happen | How to prevent it |
|---|---|---|
| Chain and sprockets | Rust, stiff links, faster wear | Dry and re-lube after rain |
| Bolts, discs, chrome | Surface rust and pitting | Corrosion protectant; keep it covered |
| Electrical connectors and switches | Corrosion, intermittent faults | Dielectric grease on connectors; cover the bike |
| Airbox and exhaust | Water getting in, especially upswept pipes | Cover; check drains |
| Seat | Foam soaks up water | Cover; seat cover |
| Battery | Drains faster when the bike sits | Battery tender |
Is it OK to ride in the rain?
Riding in the rain is normal and won’t damage a bike. The bigger risks come afterwards, when the bike sits wet. Ride carefully, because grip and visibility drop; see our tips on riding a motorcycle in the rain. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation also has advice on riding in poor weather.
How to protect a motorcycle that lives outside
Use a good cover
A waterproof, breathable cover keeps rain off while letting moisture escape. The Dowco Guardian Weatherall Plus is one of the most popular covers on RevZilla, with nearly 700 reviews, using solution-dyed polyester and taped seams. Let the engine and exhaust cool before covering. For more options, including shelters and storage capsules, see our portable motorcycle garage guide.
Protect exposed metal
After washing or a wet ride, a corrosion protectant drives out moisture and leaves a protective film. Muc-Off’s Motorcycle Protectant uses a high concentration of PTFE to help prevent dirt sticking, has an after-wash corrosion inhibitor, and is safe on the frame, chain, metal parts, plastics, rubber and paint. Keep sprays off brake discs and pads.
Look after the chain
Rain washes lube off the chain. Clean and re-lube after wet rides; Motul’s Chain Care Kit includes cleaner and lube. While you’re there, check slack; see how to adjust a motorcycle chain.
What to do after your bike has been rained on
- Wipe down the seat, gauges and switches.
- Dry and re-lube the chain.
- Check the brakes. Wet discs can feel weak at first, and light surface rust usually wipes off with the first few stops.
- If the bike sat in heavy rain with an upswept exhaust, start it and let it idle to drive out moisture.
- If the engine misfires or electrics act up, look for water in connectors and switches.
- Let the bike dry before covering it again, so you don’t trap moisture.
Long-term storage
If the bike will sit for weeks, store it under cover or indoors, add fuel stabilizer and keep the battery on a tender. See our guides to winterizing a motorcycle, the best fuel stabilizers and the best motorcycle batteries.
Rain gear for you
Stay dry with waterproof gear; see our commuting overpants and winter jackets.
FAQ
Is it bad to leave a motorcycle outside in the rain?
Occasionally, no. Regularly, it speeds up rust, corrosion and chain wear unless you cover and maintain it.
Can rain damage a motorcycle engine?
Rain rarely reaches the engine internals, but water can get into the airbox or exhaust in heavy rain, especially on bikes with upswept pipes. A cover helps.
Should I cover my motorcycle in the rain?
Yes, with a breathable, waterproof cover. Non-breathable tarps can trap moisture.
Will my motorcycle start after rain?
Usually yes. If it doesn’t, check for water in electrical connectors and the airbox.
Summary
You can leave your motorcycle in the rain occasionally, but if it lives outside, use a breathable waterproof cover, protect metal parts, look after the chain and let the bike dry before covering it. A few minutes of care after wet rides prevents most rain damage.
Browse all our maintenance and safety guides.
