Cycle Shield Storage System
CYCLE SHIELD STORAGE SYSTEM
CW EVALUATION
Stay-fresh shelter for motorcycles
EVER STORE YOUR MOTORCYCLE FOR THE winter, only to discover it six months later in worse condition than you left it?
B.W. Incorporated (316 West Broadway, P.O. Box 106, Browns Valley, MN 56219; 612/695-2891) offers a solution in the form of its Cycle Shield Storage System. When used in conjunction with Drypac-a non-corrosive, dehumidifying moisture absorbent-Cycle Shield's polymer-plastic cell eliminates storagerelated corrosion, dry-rot, fading, mildew, oxidation and pitting.
Four models-Inside, Outside, Sidecar and Trailer-are available. We ordered the Inside kit ($65), which, in addition to the above-mentioned cell (essential ly, an oversize heavy-duty garbage bag), consists of a wooden sidestand pad, rope to secure the opening and 6 pounds of Drypac.
For the evaluation, we picked a low mileage 1987 Honda VFR700, which, prior to storage, was in excellent condi tion. As instructed, we drained the gas
tank and made sure the motorcycle was cool and dry (battery removal is also recommended). For a test site, the Cicle World metal storage shed was ideal. Subject to light flooding and the effects of salt air, the structure is home to a handful of badly oxidized staff bikes.
Positioning the motorcycle in the Cycle Shield was made easier with the company's 51/2x4x6-foot Easy En trance frame (S45). Constructed from
lightweight tube-plastic. the four-post frame went together quickly without tools and fit easily inside the bag. Bike and Drypac in place, we sealed the opening by knotting the open end of the cell.
One year later, our VFR emerged in what appeared to be the same condi tion as it had been originally stored. There was no dust, corrosion, mildew, oxidation or filmy buildup. Field mice had not punctured the plastic and nest ed in the seat foam. The tires were not dry-rotted. Impressive.
One note: The Cycle Shield is in tended for long-term storage, not daily or even weekly use. Once you've acti vated the Drypac and sealed the open ing, it's best not to tamper with the cell. That said, we're delighted with the Cycle Shield. It may not be as attrac tive as a conventional bike cover, for example, but it is highly effective.
Think of it as a zip-lock baggie for your motorcycle.
