A motorcycle shed can provide safe storage for your bike throughout the year, protecting it from rain, snow, and the elements. However, you also need to ensure that the shed is large enough to fit your motorcycle.
Average Dimensions of a Motorcycle
Before building a shed for a motorcycle, you need to know the dimensions of the vehicle.
The average motorcycle measures about 7’ x 3’ x 4’. Common dimensions for motorcycles include:
- Length: 80” to 100”
- Width: 30” to 36”
- Height: 40” to 45”
Based on these dimensions, the minimum size for a shed is likely about 7’ x 4’. If you want room for gear and extra space to walk around the motorcycle, you need a larger shed.
The most common shed size in the United States is 8’ x 6’, which is large enough to hold a motorcycle. If you have enough space in your yard, you may want to increase the size up to 10’ x 10’, which offers space to move around the motorcycle and add shelves.
Here is a closer look at the ideal depth and width of a motorcycle shed to cover any scenario.
Ideal Depth of Shed for Parking a Motorcycle
The shed depth or length of the shed should at least match the length of the motorcycle plus an extra foot or two of clearance to ensure that you can exit the shed.
The average length of a motorcycle is about 7’. With an 8’ shed, you have just enough room to squeeze behind the motorcycle and walk out of the shed. A 10’ shed offers a little more room to comfortably walk behind the motorcycle.
You may also want more room in front of the motorcycle. Adding a few more feet to the length of the shed may allow you to walk around the bike when it is parked in the shed.
Ideal Width of Shed for Parking a Motorcycle
The average motorcycle is about 30” to 36” wide, but you still need space to get on and off the motorcycle. With a 4’ shed, you may be able to carefully walk next to one side of the motorcycle.
Providing at least 3’ of clearance should make getting on and off the motorcycle a little more comfortable. This would require a width of at least 6’, depending on the width of the bike.
If you want space on both sides of the bike, you need to increase the width even more. For example, a 10’ shed would likely offer just over three feet of space on each side of the motorcycle.
The extra space may allow you to inspect all areas of your bike and perform basic maintenance under the shelter of your shed. You can also use extra space for shelving and storing other gear.
How Tall Should a Motorcycle Shed Be?
The average height for a shed is 7’ to 10’. Unless you are exceptionally tall or want overhead storage, you should not need a shed taller than 7’.
The average seat height of a motorcycle is about 26” to 33”. The sitting height of the average person is about 3’, resulting in a total height of just under 6’. You can sit and walk your motorcycle into a shed with a height of at least 6’.
How Big Should the Door Be for a Motorcycle Shed?
Most doors are about 36” x 80”. 80” is tall enough to accommodate a motorcycle and its rider. However, a 36” door may create a tight squeeze.
48” is another common size for shed doors. It offers enough room for a small lawn tractor and should fit any motorcycle. It is also narrow enough to keep you from needing to install double doors.
Do You Need a Permit to Build a Motorcycle Shed?
A building permit may not be necessary for all areas. Many cities and townships only require a building permit if the shed or garage exceeds a certain size. For example, you may need a building permit if the shed exceeds 100 square feet, which is the size of a 10’ x 10’ shed.
You may also need to meet other requirements, such as setback requirements. Before you start building a shed, review the building codes in your area to avoid any violations that could force you to tear down your hard work.
Summary
A 7’ x 4’ shed should fit almost any motorcycle but may not leave space for much of anything else. If you want space to walk around the motorcycle or store other items, you need a bigger shed, such as a 10’ x 10’ shed.
A 10’ x 10’ shed may also be the largest size that you can choose without needing a building permit. In the end, you need to ensure that your shed is legal, safe, and adequately sized for your motorcycle.