How to Build a Motorcycle Shell Garage

Sep 16, 2023 — Mechanic 44 builds a DIY shell garage in an attempt to improve on a conventional motorcycle cover and outsmart the rain. And it's certainly not secretly a place for him to live in because he sleeps on a shelf.

Warning: Build this thing at your own damn risk. For the sake of liability, just presume that all tools are deadly, all adhesives are toxic, and all tents and tarps can get caught in a strong wind, lift you and your bike up into the sky and drop you onto the interstate during rush hour. Measurements vary, depending on your bikes’ dimensions.

That being said, the project will prove to be rewarding... At least we think so cause we're the only people who have tried it so far. Think about it, your beauty of a bike gets a custom shelter that keeps it safe from the elements while providing enough air volume to dry off when it’s put away wet. That sounds a little naughty, but oh so right.

Now, it must be said that the tarp and glue method is a real challenge at this scale. But if you think you've got what it takes to brave the storm, here’s what you'll need...

List of Materials

• 1 inch aluminum square tubing (approx. 80’) 3/8 x 16 all thread (approx 12 inches)
• (10) Corner connectors
• (4) 3/8 x 16 stainless nuts
• (2) 3/8 x 16 stainless nyloc nuts
• (4) Washers
• (4) Rubber washers
• (1) Vinyl tarp (we used one 14 in x 18' for the RV125)
• (1) HH-66TM vinyl cement (32oz)

As for the instructions to build the damn thing, be sure to check out the manual and handle with care!

Same Goal, Different Method

A final word for those looking to compare this with other methods and pick what's best for them. Here's what other fellow riders and DIY champions have shared with our community:

• The PVC Pipe "Axle" Method
• The PVC Pipe "In-Line" Method