Store A Bike Outside: How To Store Your Bike Outdoors?

Have you ever paused to compare how you can store a bike outside? We all love our bicycles, but only some have the luxury of indoor space. Fear not! Experts have weighed in with fantastic solutions on how to store your bike outdoors without compromising its lifespan. From innovative covers to secure racks, plenty of relevant and effective methods exist to protect your bike from the elements. If you’ve been pondering over how to keep your bike safe and sound while it’s outside, you’re in for a treat! Dive in, and let’s explore the best ways to cherish and safeguard our two-wheeled companions.

Drawbacks To Storing Your Bike Outside

Leaving your beloved bicycle exposed to the elements can have some downsides. While it might seem convenient to leave your bike outside, it’s essential to be aware of the potential pitfalls.

Rust and Corrosion: When you store the bike outside without protection, moisture can lead to rust, especially on metal parts. Even a good bike, like a mountain bike, isn’t immune. Over time, this can weaken the bike’s structure.

Reduction in the Efficiency of Moving Parts: Dirt, rain, and other outdoor elements can affect the bike’s moving parts. Chains might become less smooth, and brakes might respond slower. A storage shed or bicycle cover can help, but checking regularly is always best.

Theft: One of the most significant risks of outdoor storage is bike theft. Even if you secure your bike with a lock, it’s more exposed than stored indoors. Always find ways to keep your bike that deter thieves.

Fading of Bike Paint: Constant exposure to sunlight can cause the vibrant color of your bike to fade. Over time, what was once a bright and shiny bike might look dull and worn out.

Damage to Plastics: UV rays and extreme temperatures can damage plastic parts, like the bike seat or handles. They might become brittle or lose their shape.

Great Ways To Store Your Bike Outside

Wall-Mounted Racks: A wall-mounted bike rack is a space-saving storage solution. By elevating your bike, you save ground space and keep the saddle and handlebar away from potential harm. It’s a fantastic way to keep your motorcycle organized and easily accessible.

Bike Sheds: A bike shed offers a dedicated space to store bikes. It’s a sturdy structure that keeps your bike protected from the elements, ensuring it remains in top condition.

Bike Lockers: For those who need to store multiple bikes or want added security, bike lockers are ideal. They shield your bike parts from weather and potential thieves, offering a double layer of protection.

Ground Anchors: These are fixed points on the ground where you can lock your bike. Paired with a strong bike lock, they offer a secure storage method, especially if you need a motorcycle indoors option.

Covered Bike Stands: Often seen in public areas, these stands come with a roof-like structure. They offer a quick way to protect your bike from rain or direct sunlight.

Bike Tents: Think of them as portable bike sheds. Brands like Yardstash bike tents are easy to set up and offer a temporary solution to keep your bike outside yet shielded from harsh conditions.

Bike Dock: A bike dock is a storage rack designed to hold the bike by its wheels. It’s a neat solution, especially for those who want to avoid any potential scratches on the frame.

Balcony Rails: For apartment dwellers, balcony rails can be a lifesaver. The right attachments can securely hold your bike, saving indoor space.

Bike Tree: A vertical storage solution, the bike tree allows you to hang multiple bikes, one above the other. It’s one of the best ways to maximize storage in a limited area.

Custom-Built Bike Storage: For those looking for a tailored solution, custom-built storage caters to specific needs. Whether it’s a particular design or material, it ensures your bike is stored just the way you want.

Store In A Well-Lit Area: Keeping your bike in a bright area deters thieves. It also makes it easier for you to spot any potential issues with the bike, from a deflated tire to a missing seat cover.

With Multiple Locks: Using more than one lock is a smart move. Brands like Pro Bike Tool offer robust locks. By securing different parts of your bike, you make it harder for thieves to make a quick getaway.

Under A Waterproof Bike Cover:

Opting to store the bike outside requires proactive measures against the elements, especially rain and snow. A reliable solution is a waterproof bike cover crafted from robust materials resilient to diverse weather patterns. This cover not only defends your bicycle outside against wetness but also offers protection from dust and harmful UV rays. Think of it as a safeguarding shield, ensuring your bike remains pristine.

Bike Insurance is Worth a Thought: Given the potential threats of theft or damage when your bike is stationed outdoors, pondering over bike insurance is a prudent move. Should any mishap occur, this insurance ensures you’re not left in the lurch. It’s a supplementary safety net for your valued pedal companion.

Rent Space In A Nearby Self-Storage Unit: If you lack storage space at home, renting a nearby self-storage unit can be a solution. These units can hold one bike or more and protect them from rain or snow. Plus, they offer security features to deter theft.

In the Basement or Shared Stairwell In Your Apartment Building: If you’re hesitant about outside bike storage, using shared spaces in your apartment building, like basements or stairwells, can be an option. Just ensure you keep the bike on a bike stand or hang the bike vertically to save space. Always check with building management first.

In Your Office or Other Space At Work: Consider storing your bike at work if you commute. Some offices have designated areas or even a bike shop on-site. If not, find a safe spot, under a stairwell or in a storage room. Remember to clean the bike if it’s muddy or wet before bringing it indoors.

In a Nearby Parking Garage: Parking garages aren’t just for cars. Some have spaces or racks for bicycles. They offer shelter from rain or snow and often have security measures in place. Before putting your bike there, check if there are fees and if the environment, like an aluminum frame, is safe for your bike.

Remember, wherever you decide to store your bicycle, always prioritize its safety and protection. Whether using a storage tent, bike tent, or any other method, the goal is to ensure your adult bike remains in top condition. 

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while there are many ways to store bikes outside, it’s crucial to take precautions. Whether you choose to hang your bike, use a storage rack, or invest in a cover, always prioritize finding the best way to store and store your bike safely