GCI Blog

How to Store your Beloved Bike: Tips and Tricks

It is important to know how to store your bicycle. Here are some considerations when thinking about bicycle storage for your needs.

Types of Bicycles

When planning your bicycle storage, you need to know the type of bicycles you will be storing:

  • Road bicycles; they are designed for fast travel on paved roads; lightweight with skinny low-tread tires.
  • Mountain bicycles; outdoor storage may be preferable as they are heavy-duty bicycles with wide treaded wheels.
  • Electric bicycles are outfitted with a battery-powered motor, making cycling accessible for all. Whether storing indoors or outside, make sure you protect the motor of this type of bicycle from rain and wind.
  • Folding bicycles are a compact, commuter-friendly option that’s portable and easy to store. You may be able to get by with a simple rack or even a shelf to store this type of bicycle.
  • Recumbent bicycles are low to the ground and offer a unique silhouette to consider for your storage solution.
Bicycle Storage Consideration
Gold bike propped up against a wall. Porch shares some important tips and tricks on what to consider when thinking about bicycle storage

Here are some important factors to consider when planning your storage solution.

The size and type of your bicycles determines which storage options will minimize the space they take up. Consider both the frame and the size of your wheels. Depending on the space you have available, you may want to store your bicycle with the side flat against the wall, or vertically with wheels perpendicular to the wall. Keep in mind that some storage options are more accessible than others.

Will strangers have access to your bicycle storage area? If so, you will want to research security options to prevent theft. Chains and locks go a long way to protect your bicycle, but make sure you secure your wheels, frame, handlebars, and seat. Keep your bicycle covered for extra security through obscurity.

Wall and floor protection is another factor. This is an important consideration for tenants and homeowners alike. Tires can leave unsightly marks, and it only takes one wrong move to knock a hole in the drywall with a heavy bike. If your bicycle storage will have high traffic, try to install it in an area that can support it.

Will you store your bicycle indoors or outside? Both offer pros and cons:

  • Indoor storage keeps your bicycle better secured against the elements and from theft. Keep in mind that indoor storage can also increase the risk of damaging floors and walls. It is also inconvenient if you live on the second floor or higher of a building.
  • Outdoor storage ensures more room to keep your bicycle and less worry about the mess when engaging in repair and maintenance. But outdoor storage also requires that you take steps to cover your bicycle and invest in a security solution.

Bicycle storage is something you can do yourself. It can be a fun weekend project that lets you exercise your creativity and craftsmanship. It’s a great way to free up space and help organize your bicycle repair workspace at the same time.

Best Way to Store your Bicycle at Home or your Apartment

There are a multitude of indoor storage solutions at your disposal. The best indoor storage is the one that promotes ease of use while ensuring minimal space usage.

Try a wall-mounted storage hook. This lets you display your bike in the hallway or in a room while minimizing its space profile.

A bicycle storage wall provides room to stack multiple bikes in the same area. This is a great solution for households with multiple riders, or for the avid collector.

For the best space-saving option, outdoor storage solutions are the way to go. A parking rack offers a classic organizational system with a chic urban feel. Standing wall racks let you stack multiple bikes vertically.

For maximum security outdoors, look into installing a bike storage locker. Not only will this prevent theft, but it will also protect your valuable bikes from rain and wind damage. Fiberglass options are, affordable, relatively lightweight and durable. Metal options provide superior impact resistance for high-wind situations.

If you’re looking for a minimalist solution, try these low-fuss options:

  • A simple kickstand attachment keeps your bicycle standing upright.
  • A gravity rack leans against the wall and uses the force of gravity to secure your bicycle.
  • A floor rack organizes one or multiple bicycles in a standing position.

Bicycle storage doesn’t have to break the bank. There are many options available to suit everyone. Whether you’re a casual rider, a daily commuter, or a weekend warrior, your bicycle will benefit from a dedicated storage solution.

This piece was written and originally posted by Porch.com

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  • 23rd February 2021 – Last updated 21st June 2022