Sizes: M-XXL

Price: $84.95-$104.95 (AMA members receive 20 percent discount and free shipping for orders over $50)

Info: www.nelsonrigg.com

The first impression of many products is their packaging. That was the case with the Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover (in the Ultra-Max fabric) from Nelson-Rigg.

When I received the package, right off the bat I noticed the size of the box—12-by-8-by-8 inches—was fairly compact for an XL. Then I found that the cover itself comes with its own storage bag with adjustable buckles. Nice touch.

I requested an XL size for my 2014 BMW GS800 with a 20-inch top case and side aluminum panniers. Unfortunately, the cover did not fit with the side cases. With the side cases removed, it was a better fit, and with the top case removed, it was a perfect fit. My GS also has an aftermarket 17-inch-high windshield.

Although the GS800 sits somewhat tall and the cases are sizeable, they are typical for adventure-class motorcycles. Because of that, I felt the sizing was a bit small. For a full-size cruiser with bags or a large touring bike, there’s also an XXL Defender that offers an antenna grommet kit. Consider going one size larger than you think or contact Nelson-Rigg for assistance.

This cover claims to be waterproof, and since I tried out this cover in Southern California in sunny 69-degree weather, out came the water hose! I drenched the bike for several minutes and water ran off the cover like it was a Minnesota mallard. No moisture got into the vent holes and the elastic hem does a good job of encompassing and protecting the entire motor down to the frame.

Other pros with this cover are the thick material, large reinforced security grommets, heavy elastic and the added strap. It’s worth emphasizing that the construction quality is excellent, and gives confidence that Nelson-Rigg’s other products, such as side bags and luggage, are worth considering.

A couple cons are the windshield portion didn’t have a soft liner, such as a flannel lining. Also, it would have been handy to have had a longer buckle strap to go underneath and keep the cover on and secure.

The reflective stripe on the rear of the cover is good to have, but a reflective logo on the front would have been a nice touch as well.

All Defender Extreme models come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects. This model also has a warranty against fading.

If you’re interested, you can purchase directly from Nelson-Rigg to take advantage of the discount and free shipping over $50.

All in all, this is a great cover that is reasonably priced, especially if you are unable to garage your steed or like the extra security a cover provides when you travel.—Robin McNamara