Bicycles are not always convenient items to store when not in use, they easily fall over and on top of that their dimensions are not small at all. Some of us may be lucky enough to have a storage cell or a bike shed. Many, however, will have to resort to clever solutions to save space and organize the space.
A bike on the wall can be an amazing decoration
© Brunov Van Der Kraan
Storing a bicycle in an apartment
Cyclists living in small spaces have a considerable problem with storing their equipment. However, there is quite a good solution for this - we can hang the bike on the wall . This can be a great decoration especially for cycling enthusiasts. On the market we will meet different types and designs of bicycle hangers. Each of them is different and will suit different needs. Let's see what to consider before choosing one:
Permanent or temporary
If we are homeowners, we have more options, as there are many indoor storage solutions that require screwing to the wall, floor or ceiling. If we rent an apartment, we should ask the landlord for permission before drilling holes in the walls. However, if we do not have the ability to drill holes in the wall, we can also use some solutions that do not affect the structure of the wall.
The number of bicycles to store
Before deciding on a hanger, we should consider how many bicycles we want to hang on it. Even if it is currently only one, let's consider whether we will want to expand our collection in the near future.
Wheel size and weight
Different hangers have different parameters when it comes to bike size and weight. Keep in mind wheel size and tire width, especially if you have fatter tires or 29-inch wheels. If we use wall-mounted hooks, let's make sure they are compatible with the bike.
If we plan to mount the bike, we need to consider the weight of the bike and the quality of the walls. Is it solid brick or drywall? Some bikes - especially electric bikes, weigh much more than most and require a strong mount bolted to a solid wall.
A simple hook attached to the wall does not take up much space
© Pixnio.com
Types of bicycle racks
As we've written before, there are several options for storing your bike that don't breach the walls, so we distinguish between several durable and non-permanent storage methods.
Non-permanent bicycle storage methods
Freestanding floor rack
If you have a little more space in your apartment, you may be tempted to purchase a stylish freestanding stand. On the websites of manufacturers we can find many unique ideas that look like industrial cabinets or wooden benches of interesting shape with a special compartment for the bicycle wheel. Often these are also minimalist racks that have rubber feet to prevent shifting. Again, consider the size and width of the wheel before buying a rack.
Door-mounted rack
This solution works in exactly the same way as a wall-mounted bike hook, but hooks onto the top of the door. Be sure to choose a door that you won't have to constantly open and close.
Non-permanent ways to store bicycles
Wall-mounted hook
If we have enough wall space, this is an ideal place to store bikes. There are two main ways we can choose: hanging the bike vertically or horizontally.
Vertical hanging takes up less wall space, so it's ideal if we don't have a lot of space or want to hang several bikes. Let's mount the hook high enough so that the front wheel can hang on it, with the rear wheel raised above the ground. Let' s consider how to protect the walls from scratches and marks by choosing this option.
Hanging the bike horizontally allows you to make it a work of art. This is a great option if you have a lot of space and want to make it the centerpiece of the room. It is also possible to store two bicycles this way, as long as the ceiling is high enough.
A ceiling-mounted bicycle lift
If the room where you want to store your bicycle is high enough, you can use lifting brackets attached to the ceiling. This solution can be used to attach various items such as ladders, kayaks, but they also work well with a bicycle. In general, they are best for people who view cycling as an occasional pastime, not a lifestyle. It is not the fastest system to use, and installation is more complicated than installing a fixed hook or bracket.
