Bikes are not only large items to store they are also awkward. By keeping your garage well organised you can avoid the cluttered mess that is usual of most garages and an accessible bike means that you will be inclined to use it more. Garage storage solutions for bikes come in three forms – freestanding, wall mounted and ceiling mounted. All of these methods will keep your bike free
Freestanding Garage Storage for Bikes
Of all of these garage storage ideas the freestanding rack is by far the most popular and the main reason for this is that they are simple to install and can be readily moved around should you choose to change around your garage. Freestanding bicycle storage systems can store anything from one bicycle up to four bicycles – perfect if you want to store your family’s bikes. If you are looking for a freestanding rack for multiple bikes makes sure that they have adjustable arms so that they can be tailored to each individual bike. This factor is even more important if you plan to store different types bikes – children’s bikes and ladies bikes are very different from men’s bikes , and road bikes are very different from mountain bikes. By choosing a freestanding bike rack that has individually adjustable arms you will be able accommodate all bikes.
The Racor Pro PLB-2R Two-Bike Gravity Freestanding Bike Stand allows for two bikes to stored one above the other, the arms can be independently adjusted so that they can accommodate different types of bike and allow for those that have steep sloping top tubes. This rack although labeled freestanding is really designed to be leant against a wall, and there is the opportunity for you to fix it to the wall. If you want a true freestanding rack then look no further than the Racor Pro PLB-4R Gravity Freestanding Bike Stand
this is a true free standing rack that will support four bicycles.
Wall Mounted Garage Storage for Bikes
The majority of wall mounted bicycle storage racks for bicycle feature two arms that stick out and support the bicycle of the floor by its top tube. There are a few types that act as hooks and support the bike by its front wheel, but these are not a great solution for storing bikes in the garage. The main features to look out for with wall mounted bike racks are the weight that they will carry, ease of installation and whether they will foldaway when a bike is not on them.
Two of the most popular wall mounted racks on Amazon are the Racor Pro PSB-1R Single Folding Bike Rack and the Racor Pro PSB-2L Double Folding Bike Rack
. Both of these share the same great features – easy to install and fold flat when not in use. Unique to these racks are that they allow a space for the storage of helmets and other accessories by providing a flat shelf area. The manufacturer also states that these racks can be used for light maintenance work which is an added advantage. Another popular rack is the Allen Wall Mounted 2-Bike Strorage Rack
installation couldn’t be simpler with it being held to the wall with just one screw and when it hasn’t got a bike on it that rack folds away to prevent injury and save space.
Overhead Garage Storage for Bikes
Perhaps one of the most sophisticated garage storage systems for bikes is the ceiling mounted type. These overhead garage storage solutions for bikes are the most efficient use of floor space you can find. Although sophisticate when compared to the other offerings bicycle storage products they are only based upon a simple pulley system where there is very little to go wrong. Of all the bicycle storage systems this one – although it is putting the bike up and out of the way – it is the easiest to use for everybody. Unlike a wall rack or freestanding rack you never need to support the full weight of the bike and that means that even your children can easily use this sort of system.
Two of the most popular systems are the Racor PBH-1R Ceiling-Mounted Bike Lift and the RAD Cycle Products Ceiling Mount Bike Hoist
. Both of these offer fantastic value for money and have received outstanding reviews. See the overhead garage storage article for more information on ceiling mounted bicycle storage.
In conclusion by using good garage storage solutions that are easy to use and safe will encourage you to get out more on your bike and make it a safer place for your family. They type of storage you opt for will largely be dependent on the amount of room you have in your garage in terms of floor space, wall space and ceiling height.