Bike Storage Ideas – Cycling Gear Storage Ideas From Experts

Yes, I agree! It is difficult sometimes to find a proper place to store it. There are thousands of bikes in the market and one rack or one stand cannot be used for all of them. That’s not the main problem here though when you go out in the market to look for the perfect bike stand, you will be overwhelmed easily, so you need to plan things.

If you plan on storing bikes indoors then that could be a bit tricky, you will need to figure out how many bikes to store and how to store them. Either way, if it’s indoors or outdoors, you need custom bike storage for all purposes and circumstances.

Guess what? I have done the research and tried out different storage systems. So in this guide, I will discuss some of the best ideas and methods to store your bikes at home. These storage systems are then further categorized into different groups that I will discuss in detail. Let’s get started!

Vertical Bike Storage System

The first and foremost option that you can use to store your bikes is the vertical storage option. This way you can store as many bikes as you want without sacrificing the necessary space, it is easy and very much comfortable. The bikes will be hung on the ceiling and you can have plenty of space on the floor. Be careful though, you still need to have enough space on the floor when you pull them out of the ceiling.

In some situations this storage system might not be the one for you, if you are trying to park both of your cars in one garage then I would suggest that you look for other options. When this happens, don’t try going for other indoor storage systems for your bike, chances are they can get tangled up!

This storage system is one of the best ways to store your and your children’s bikes.

Pros

• You can store the majority of the bikes this way without worrying about space
• You get so many options with this as it is the most common way of storage
• The majority of the bikes can be fitted this way, from kids bikes to adult bikes

Cons

• Sometimes, it gets very difficult for kids to use this method and if they do it themselves, it could become dangerous
• This method sticks off the wall, some bike users might not be too keen to use this method at all

Here are some of the options that are available.

1. Steadyrack

• Price: $70
• Can Fit: 20”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 1 Bike

When it comes to vertical store options, the first thing that comes to mind is the steady rack. It has a unique pivot design that keeps your garage organized always, and accessing your bikes is also made very easy. You will see that it is not just beneficial for storing one bike, you can store multiple bikes like that easily. The rack comes with a pivoting tray from which you can keep your bikes close and access them whenever you want! You can even load up bikes however you see fit without any kind of restrictions.

You don’t have to worry about safety though, the steady rack doesn’t come in contact with the bike’s rims, which means that even kids can load and unload the bikes whenever they want without any kind of problems.

2. Rubbermaid FastTrack Garage Organization System

• Price: Starts at $80-$120 (Depends on size)
• Can Fit: 12”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: Can be customized

The Rubbermaid is used for more than just storing up bikes, you can use it for a variety of reasons like shovels, ladders, etc. When it comes to bikes, you can store bikes and all kinds of accessories you want and you won’t have to worry about a thing. In terms of sizes, you can purchase the Rubbermaid in two different sizes, one is the 48” variant and the other is the 84” variant. 

You just need to install this rack and you will have plenty of hook options available. You can remove them and install them again whenever you please, they also come with different kinds of configurations.

3. Omni Bike Rack For Garage Wall

• Price: $70
• Can Fit: 12”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 5 Bikes

The Omni bike storage rack is one of the easiest and fun racks to use and they aren’t that expensive either. When you purchase the rack, you get hooks alongside it which are not just meant for adjustment but also optional attachments. You can get the inexpensive Omni wall mount if you are only gonna use it for hanging bikes.

4. Delta Cycle Leonardo Single Bike Hook

• Price: $20
• Can Fit: 12″+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 1 Bike

Bike hooks are as beloved as they are comfortable, with them we can hook as many bikes as we want without any kind of problems. You don’t even need to find rails, just find enough space for a hook and you will be able to attach your bike easily. The delta hook is amazing, you can attach the bike easily while also protecting it. You also get a rear-wheel tray which will protect your walls as well!

5. Pro Bike Tool 3-Bike Wall Rack

• Price: $59.99
• Can Fit: Customizable
• Max Capacity: 3 Bikes

The Pro Bike Tool Rack is one of the most amazing storage solutions that you will find in the market. It is a tad more expensive than the bike hooks that you would go for, but you get amazing options with it and you also get to save a lot of floor space. This bike rack has a shiny aluminum bar with three hooks, you can use those hooks to store your bikes vertically or in any other fashion you like. You can use this rack in a garage, shed, or even inside your house. You just need to find a good place for it.

The bike rack also comes with a variant that can store up to 6 bikes.

Expert Recommendation:

Ceiling Bike Rack Storage System

Ceiling bike storage racks are the perfect options if you don’t have the space on the floor or racks, they are pretty convenient as well. These rack systems are perfect for a single bike but there are some options that you can use which lets you store multiple bikes!

Pros

• With the ceiling bike rack system, you don’t have to worry about it taking up any kind of space
• They are very easy to access, and you can lower the bikes whenever you want without any kind of problems
• You can even get your hands on some racks which will let you store multiple bikes of different shapes and sizes 

Cons

• Kids can’t use this method to store their bikes all by their lonesome
• This method involves ceiling installation which gets difficult most of the time
• You can’t use the bike hoists for normal or kid’s bikes as they can only be used for adult or large kid’s bikes
• This idea is dangerous as the bikes are out of your sight

Let us discuss some options you can try when you go for a ceiling bike rack storage system.

1. Saris Cycle Glide

• Price: $240
• Can Fit: 12”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 4-6 Bikes (Add-On Kits Required)

In our quest to find the best storage spaces for bikes, Saris Cycle Glide takes first place without a doubt. It has impressed us so much that we can’t look at any other options. It is extremely easy to use, the design is amazing, that is why you should definitely try it out. It is equipped with sliding rails and hooks that can store any bike without problems. 

You can choose what bike you want to store, just slide down the hooks and adjust them however you want. I would say that when it comes down to flexibility, the ceiling system works great!

There are four bike rails that you can move horizontally, it is easily accessible and fun to use. While using them, you won’t be worried about the cars parked underneath.

2. Delta El Greco Ceiling Hoist Or Racor Bike Lift Pulley System

• Price: $18-$29
• Can Fit: 12”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 1 Bike

Ceiling bike racks are perfect for families that have no other option when it comes to storage. The Saris Cycle Glide is amazing but if you are looking for simpler options then I would suggest the Delta El Greco. It is an easy and affordable option that you can use without any kind of problems!

One thing that comes to mind is that if your bike is equipped with hydraulic brakes then you shouldn’t even be hanging them upside down but the Delta pulley system comes extremely handy over here. These pulley systems can handle any kind of bike between 12” and 29”. Just install the pulley system according to the length of the bike and you’ll be aces.

Expert Recommendation:

Garage Bike Storage System (Floor Bike Racks)

Garage bike storage systems are great for racking up your bikes, that is if you can find the perfect place for them. When you use floor bike space, you use it for bikes that you use the most and that are the most accessible. If you use them smart enough then they would prove to be very beneficial.

Pros

• Best with bikes that are used on a daily basis
• Kids can use the floor racks easily, and if you have kids in the house then I would suggest that you go with this option
• You can use them in garages or playrooms

Cons

• This method takes up a LOT of floor space, people living in single apartments should ignore it
• Some bikes are not even compatible with this method, an example is bikes with disc brakes

Let us discuss some of the best options we have here.

1. Simple Housewares 5 Bike Floor Parking Rack

• Price: $40
• Can Fit: 12”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 5 Bikes

Floor racks for bikes may be old-school in nature but they have been the best so far, as they stood through the threads of time. They are simple, cheap, and can store multiple bikes, what else could you want? Now, this is one of the best floor racks that we could find, kids don’t even need their parents to operate this beauty.

One of the fun parts is that you can store multiple bikes on this rack without worrying about space.

2. RAD Cycle Six Bike Floor Stand

• Price: $98
• Can Fit: 12”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 6 Bikes

The RAD floor stand is easily one of our tips, it is quite unique and fun to use. It is unique for many reasons actually, first of all, you can store bikes in different directions, some on the left and some on the right. Secondly, it also has hooks that you can use to store the bike helmets, this should come in extremely handy.

You can store up to 6 bikes on this stand, but they have to be of different shapes and sizes.

3. Delta Cycle Shop Rack

• Price: $40
• Can Fit: 20”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 1 Bike

This bike rack is one of the best ones that you can find in the market, it is sturdy and durable enough, you will not be disappointed if you get it. It can easily keep your bike secure and in one place, its easy-to-access structure makes it fun to use.

The distinct features about this bike are that the rack arms are completely adjustable, even kids can use them easily.

4. Topeak Lineup Stand

• Price: $63
• Can Fit: 20”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 1 Bike

The Topeak standing bike rack is amazing and it is constructed with a spring-loaded cradle system, with it be ensured that there will be minimal to no contact with the rear wheel of the bicycle. The derailleur and disc brakes of the bike will be well protected!

The only disadvantage that I can see is that you can store only one bike, but that should be fine!

5. Racor PBS-2R Floor Stand

• Price: $42
• Can Fit: 20”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 2 Bikes

Do you want to store 2 bikes at once? The best option to go for is the Racor PBS-2R, it is amazing as it is sturdy. It is aesthetically pleasing, you can store the bikes in the same position or have them face each other, it is entirely up to you!

In order to get the best out of it, just add some rubber grip on the bottom!

Expert Recommendation:

Horizontal Bike Storage System (On the Wall)

Horizontal bike storage systems are advanced options, with them you can carefully put a bike on the wall. Although do know that it will take a lot of wall space, so you need to be careful. With horizontal bike storage, you have two main options. The first option is the free wall stand and secondly, you have the wall mounts. You can choose between the two according to your preferences.

The horizontal options are very common when it comes to storing bikes indoors, there is no need to have second thoughts about them as they are very secure.

Pros

• If you live in an apartment, this is the best choice for you. They can fit anywhere easily!
• They are very easy to lift and use 
• You can choose between the two options: Stand or Wall-mount 
• They are best for showcasing your bike collection
• With some options available, you can also fit in smaller bikes with large ones

Cons

• This method also takes up a lot of wall space, so if you can’t make room for it then search for other methods
• If you have a bike with wide handlebars then this method won’t be able to support it
• Kid’s can’t use this method on their own
• You can’t store too many bikes using this method

These are some of the best options that you can try out!

1. Feedback Sports Velo 2D Wall Rack

• Price: $45
• Can Fit: 20”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 1 Bike

If you are worried about space, then get the Feedback Sports 2D rack, it is amazing and takes up minimal space. With its 2D arms, you can even customize the bike frame without any kind of problem. You can move both arms however you seem fit, this gives you a lot of independence. If you have bikes with sloping top tubes or kid’s bikes then the customizable options for you are going to be great.

2. Delta Cycle Michelangelo Free Standing Bike Rack

• Price: $53-$114
• Can Fit: 20”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 1 Bike

The Delta Cycle Michelangelo bike rack is amazing and comes up with its own set of unique advantages. First is that you can store two bikes horizontally without the risk of them getting damaged, secondly, the rack can be moved whenever you want. You can adjust the frame sizes, so the accessibility options are amazing here. Feel free to store any kind of bike on this rack.

3. Gear Up Lean Machine Gravity Rack

• Price: $64.99
• Can Fit: 20”+Wheels
• Max Capacity: 2 Bikes

These gravity racks are becoming more and more famous nowadays, they offer clean and improvised storage space for your bikes and don’t even take that much space. The racks are strong but do not put too much weight on them, other than that they work fine. The racks come with arms that protect the bike, especially the paintwork. They can be customized to personal preference.

Expert Recommendation:

Indoor Bike Rack System

If you are not comfortable with putting up the hardware on your walls and you still want to store bikes then indoor bike racks are the best options at your disposal. These storage options take up space as any other option but can be more accommodating comparatively.

Pros

• You don’t need to put up any kind of hardware, which makes it amazing people who live in rented apartments
• You can install them in garages and indoors
• You can move them from one place to the other

Cons

• You are restricted by the column’s height as you can’t use it everywhere
• Kids can’t use this method by themselves 
• You can’t store that many bikes using this method

This is by far the best option we could find!

1. Topeak Dual-Touch Bike Stand

• Price: $180
• Can Fit: 12”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 2 Bikes

The Topeak is one of the best options that you can go for, it is very sleek, takes the least amount of space, and keeps all of your bikes in the line. The construction is simple, a black pressured pole between the floor and the ceiling. You don’t need any kind of hardware to operate it.

The rack arms are also very adjustable so you shouldn’t have any kind of problems with them!

2. Topeak Two Up

• Price: $225
• Can Fit: 12”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 2 Bikes

This is another great bike stand from Topeak, although it is a bit expensive than other entries. If you are wondering then know that it comes with two hooks that can store bikes, the maximum weight limit for the stand is 73 kgs, in my opinion, that should be more than enough.

3. Gear Up OakRak Floor-to-Ceiling

• Price: $209
• Can Fit: 12”+ Wheels
• Max Capacity: 2 Bikes

The Gear Up rack is one of the best indoor bike storage options that you can go for. It is very easy to assemble and is also aesthetically pleasing. The construction of this stand is very amazing, it is made from American red oak that guarantees maximum protection and stability. The wooden beams of the stand are between the floor and ceiling, the vertical parts of the stand are held together by furniture nuts and threads. 

Expert Recommendation:

How To Store Bikes For Long-Term

Planning on going away for a while? You need to make sure that your bikes are properly stored so that you can resume your adventures when you come back. There are two options here, either you get a storage unit for some time or you can store the bike in your garage or any other space you have.

If you place your bike in the shed or just leave it outside locked and covered will solve the space issue you might have but your bike still won’t be secure, the whole point over here is to make sure that your bike is secured. When you are gone, thieves will easily break into your shed or any other place you might have stored your bike. At least with a storage unit, your bike will be protected.

Here are some of the useful tips that you should follow.

1. Inflate Tires Properly

Now that you have decided where to store your bike for the long term, there are some important steps to follow. First, you need to inflate the tires properly. I know that the tires will deflate with time but you can always get someone to check on them. Doing so will stop any kind of bulges or flat spots from developing.

2. Use A Bike Rack

The bike’s tires need to be off the floor, that’s why you will be using a bike rack. In the absence of a bike rack, you can always use some books to stack up the bike.

3. Protect From Moisture 

Moisture will ruin your bike’s components faster than anything. So, even if you will be placing your bike on the floor make sure that it isn’t directly on the concrete. The tires should be on a rug or a wooden surface.

4. Clean The Frame 

You need to protect the bike’s frame from rust and other contaminants and make sure that there is someone who will clean the bike’s frame from time to time. Remove any kind of grime, grease, and moisture.

Apart from the frame, also make sure to clean the seat, handlebars, and rim.

5. Keep The Bike In A Climate-Controlled Unit 

If you are planning on storing your bike for a long time, make sure that it is in a climate-controlled unit. Temperature fluctuations can eventually cause rust and you need to be careful about it. Also, make sure that the storage unit maintains a consistent temperature above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

FAQs

Can bikes be stored in the cold?

It isn’t bad if you store your bikes in a cold and dry area, just make sure that they are not directly exposed to sunlight or snow.

Is it bad to store your bike outside?

For the short term, it isn’t bad to store the bike outside, although when we talk about the long term then some damages can occur like rust.

Is rain bad for my bike?

No, rain isn’t bad for your bike as most of the modern bikes out there are built to handle rain quite well. Although, if the bike has a steel frame or is made from cheap components then rain could be harmful to your bike.

Read also:

• How to Build Your Own Bike
• Measure a Bike Frame
• Bike Maintenance Tips
• Choose The Right Bike Work Stand
• 58 Milestones in Bicycle History

Recap

Storing your bike is as important as having one, you cannot live without it. When you go to the market looking for storage options, it is very likely to be overwhelmed. With this guide, I have provided you with enough options, feel free to go through them in detail and choose the best option for yourself!