How to Store a Bike

Whether you have an expensive bike that you use every day or a cheap bike that you take out occasionally, it's important to store it securely. Think about your storage needs to determine where to keep your bike when you're not using it. Then, choose a storage rack so your bike isn't leaning against a wall. With a little care and consideration, your bike will be safe and sound until you're ready to ride.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Choosing a Storage Location

1. Use your garage to easily store multiple bikes. If you have space in your garage, it's a great way to store bikes so they're not in your way. A garage is more secure than storing your bike outside and you don't have to worry about bringing a wet bike into your home.^[1]
   
   • To make it easier to get your bike in and out of the garage, designate a bike-only space so it doesn't get blocked by storage containers, vehicles, or clutter.
2. Designate a small shed for your bike if you don't have garage space. Clear space in an outdoor shed if you want to park 1 or more bikes. The shed protects the bike from extreme weather and you can lock the door to secure your bike.^[2]
   
   • If you don't have space in your yard, consider placing a bike shed on an unused parking space.
3. Set up a bike tent for an inexpensive and portable storage option. If you don't have a small shed on your property but you have outdoor space, buy a lightweight bike tent. You can quickly set this up just like a standard tent, but it's designed to fit 1 or 2 bikes.^[3]
   
   • Keep in mind that although a bike tent protects your bike from rain or wind, it's not a secure way to store your bike for a long time.
4. Keep your bike indoors if you don't have a garage or outdoor space. If you don't have a yard or garage, you'll probably need to get creative with storing your bike inside. If your house or apartment has stairs, try hiding it under them or devote a small workroom to storing the bike.^[4]
   
   • You can display your bike and make it part of your home's decor. Consider hanging it on the wall in one of your main living spaces. You can even buy or make a bike display shelf.

[Edit]Picking a Storage Rack

1. Purchase a floor stand if you only want to store 1 bike. If you're looking for a simple storage solution that doesn't require you to lift or move the bike, buy a bike floor stand. This looks like a long metal bar that bends up at 1 end. To store your bike, roll the front or back wheel into the middle of the stand and it will stay in place.^[5]
   
   • Floor stands are a good option if you're storing the bike indoors, in a shed, or in a bike tent.
2. Choose a vertical stand if you want to take up less storage space. Look for a bike stand that has a vertical pole and clamp near the top. Lift up the bike so you can clamp the seat post in place. This raises the bike up a little so only 1 tire is on the ground.^[6]
   
   • You can use a vertical bike stand indoors, in a bike shed or tent, or in the garage.
   • This is also a good option if you don't want to install a hook or mount to your wall or ceiling.
3. Install a hook, hinge, or mount to the wall if you want to keep the bike off of the floor. If you don't have a lot of space and don't want your bike resting on the ground, buy a hook to screw into the wall. You could also purchase a hinge or horizontal wall mount that installs directly into the wall. Then, lift your bike by the frame or wheel so it hangs on the mount.^[7]
   
   • For example, if you use a horizontal wall mount, you'll lift the bike up so both ends are suspended by the mount. If you're using a hook, you'll probably need to hang just 1 of the tires by the hook so the bike dangles.
4. Install a ceiling-mounted pulley if you want to maximize storage space. If you have limited space in your garage or entryway but want to store your bikes inside, buy a ceiling-mounted pulley. Hook a clamp attached to a rope to each end of your bike. Then, pull on the rope so the pulley raises the bike to the ceiling.^[8]
   
   • This is a good option if you want to be able to park cars in your garage without your bike getting in the way.

[Edit]Protecting Your Bike from Damage

1. Avoid leaning the bike against a wall. Always use a storage rack when you're not using your bike instead of propping it against a wall or immovable object. Propping the bike can damage the frame, gears, and seat over time. Your bike can also fall over since it's not secure.^[9]
   
   • Leaning the bike puts pressure on parts, which can cause them to loosen.
2. Drape a tarp above the bike to protect it from dust and moisture. Hang a thin tarp over the bike so it's suspended above the bike. If you can, drape the tarp over something that's taller than the bike so it doesn't come into contact with the bike. Then, secure the bottom of the tarp in place with bungees, stakes, or rope.^[10]
   
   • If you completely encase the bike in a tarp, the material can trap moisture which causes the bike to rust.
3. Put a full bike cover over your bike if you're storing it for a long time. Purchase a bike cover made of a stretchy elastic material that conforms to the shape of your bike. Cover the bike if you plan to store the bike outside or in your garage for the long term.^[11]
   
   • The cover prevents the bike from getting scratched, stained, or faded. Most are waterproof too, which prevents the bike from rusting.
4. Use at least 1 type of lock to keep your bike secure. If you're storing your bike anywhere outside, it's a good idea to lock it with a heavy-duty lock. Buy a "U" or "D" shaped lock and thread it through the frame so you can lock it to an immovable object. To make it harder to steal, thread heavy chains or a cable lock through the wheels and secure them to the object.^[12]
   
   • Avoid using locks that are thin since these are easy to cut.
5. Clean and prep the bike if you're storing outside for the long term. Take off any electronic parts that might stop working because of exposure to moisture or extreme cold. Then, clean your bike with water and dry it thoroughly. Spread a lubricant on parts of the bike that might rust, such as the bolts, drivetrain, or spokes.^[13]
   
   • You can also spray a rust-inhibitor if you have a steel-frame bike.
   • Remember to thoroughly clean the bike and pump up the tires before you plan on using it again.

[Edit]Tips

• If you're still unsure about how to store your bike, check your local cycling center or bicycle club for ideas.

[Edit]References