A moped or low-powered motorcycle can be an economical vehicle for a person to purchase and operate, but protecting it with one of the available moped covers will help to maintain its appearance and value. Some moped covers are made of natural fibers, and others use synthetic materials. They can be simple and universal or shaped and fitted to a particular type of machine. Many offer some degree of water-repellency and added features such as tie-downs, locks and storage bags, but even something as basic as a large piece of canvas or plastic will keep out dust during indoor storage.
Although a simple piece of plastic or canvas is the least-costly approach, commercial moped covers often are able to provide better protection. They can be designed for indoor use, outdoor use or both, and nearly all of those from reputable manufacturers are clearly labeled to confirm that they’re actually intended for outdoor use and to indicate how much protection they offer. Canvas and untreated cloth are poorly suited to wet conditions because they can act like sponges and retain water, keeping the cover in contact with the machine while allowing mold to grow.
Moped covers of synthetic materials or fabrics treated with repellents are much better at shedding water, and most are breathable. Being breathable might seem to compromise protection, but it instead enhances it by allowing moisture to escape from the interior before it can cause rust or other deterioration. Whether constructed of synthetics or treated fabrics, moped covers that are of good quality and are designed for outdoor service should also provide protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays that can damage plastic and paint. Like information on the ability to repel water, details on UV protection should be described by the manufacturer.
Not all important features come to mind as quickly as weather resistance, but moped covers need to protect against more than sun and water. Strong tie-downs enable some types to be fastened to the machine as a safeguard against damage from wind-blown debris and minor vandalism. Synthetic materials are often better able to stand up against wind and vandals without tearing, but moped covers meant for use in extreme conditions are designed to employ a locking cable that makes theft more difficult.
