Trike Cover Guide — Fitting a Motorcycle Cover on Three Wheels
Trikes are the awkward size in the motorcycle cover world. They have motorcycle dimensions up front and car-like width at the rear — so a standard motorcycle cover is too short, and a car cover is too baggy. A trike cover is built for that specific shape: long enough for the frame, wide enough for the rear, and cut to fit mirrors and windscreens.
Why Trikes Need a Special Fit
- The rear track is 40-60 cm wider than the front — standard covers strain at the rear
- Trike bodies (fiberglass or metal) scratch easily — lining quality matters
- Long wheelbases mean standard bike covers do not reach the tail
- Windscreens and mirrors sit high — pockets and cutouts are essential
- Converted trikes have unique shapes — measuring beats guessing
Key Fit Dimensions
| Dimension | How to Measure |
|---|---|
| Length | Tip of the front fender to the rearmost point |
| Width | Across the widest rear body section |
| Height | Ground to the top of the windscreen |
| Mirror spread | Outside edge to outside edge of mirrors |
What to Look For
- Extended rear panels — the cover must drop over the rear body, not stretch across it
- Mirror pockets — without them, the cover tears at the widest point
- Windscreen cutout or tall pocket — full coverage without fabric strain
- Soft fleece lining — trike bodies scratch easily; lining is non-negotiable
- Hem straps front and rear — trikes catch wind like small cars; straps are essential
- Breathable panels — condensation collects on wide flat bodywork
Measuring Rules
- Measure the longest, widest, and tallest points — never the wheelbase alone
- Add 15-20 cm to the length for a relaxed fit that does not strain seams
- Note the mirror width separately — this determines whether standard sizes work
- Measure with accessories fitted (windshield, rear luggage) if they stay on the trike
Storage Considerations
A trike is a tall, wide object that stores poorly outside. The cover protects fiberglass bodies from UV fading and cracking, and keeps dew and dust off the seat and grips. For long storage, use a cover with UV-stabilized fabric and a breathable construction — trike bodywork does not benefit from trapped humidity.
Common Problems
- Buying a car cover instead — baggy fabric flaps and scratches the body
- Buying a motorcycle cover — too short and too narrow; the rear hangs exposed
- Skipping the mirror pockets — the first tear appears at the mirrors within weeks
- Tight straps over bodywork — webbing edges can mark fiberglass; use strap protectors
Seasonal Use
In summer, a lighter trike cover sheds dust and bird droppings. In winter, a heavier waterproof cover with a lining protects the body and keeps snow off the seat. One good all-season trike cover usually outperforms two mediocre general-purpose ones.
The Bottom Line
Trike owners should buy a cover measured for three wheels, with mirror pockets and rear coverage. A correct fit protects thousands in bodywork — a wrong fit damages it.
For OEM trike cover sourcing, visit autobean.en.alibaba.com, or explore www.jkcovers.com and www.customfitprotection.com.
Originally published at JK Corp Car Cover Guides
