One fortunate thing about owning a motorcycle is that the potential for rodent damage is pretty small. This is solely due to the lack of an engine compartment.
Rodents are attracted to car engine compartments because it provides shelter, warmth, and safety, and is a potential place for nesting grounds. Motorcycles don’t have this enclosed area, so this makes them, in general, a low probability risk for rodent damage.
Though given the lack of the engine compartment, the motorcycle is still at risk of being used for a chew toy. One thing you should at least do is make sure there is some bright light that shines on the motorcycle at night.
If you are really paranoid about it, you can place snap traps at the bases of the tread of the tires and around the kick stand, and spray the engine with peppermint spray, OR purchase a motorcycle sized car bubble (ultimately the best solution, but most expensive).
Getting a mouser cat or an owl box would also be solid long-term solutions.
In some cases, motorcycles may be stored in an enclosed case or box. If that’s the case, then you certainly need to take action in putting some defenses up. Place snap traps around the box, spray some peppermint oil inside, leave the top off if possible (so that there is some shelter that is taken away) and most importantly, keep an eye on things. Regularly check the inside of the box to make sure there aren’t any signs of damage or rodent poops around the exterior.
I hope that this has been helpful.
If you have any questions/comments, please drop a note below!
Thank you!!
Rat King Dave
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I have a bmw K1, and rats have ruined some of my wires under the cowling on the bike. The repair costs alone are over $400. Any advice on how to get rid of the piss smell when the bike gets warm? Thanks a ton!
Hi Chris! I apologize for the super late reply to your question. Please take a look at the article I wrote specifically for that question: How to Eliminate Rodent Urine Smell Essentially, I would try an enzyme-based spray. If you have any questions, please let me know! Thank you!! RKD