Bicycles are a great way to get around, but what do you do with them if you can’t leave them outside? Some people don’t have bike storage rooms, or their bike is too expensive to be left alone without any protection.
Whatever the reason, this article focuses on different apartment bike storage solutions inside your apartment.
Table of Contents
Horizontal bike wall mounts
Horizontal bike wall mounts are a popular way to store bikes in apartments. One of the key advantages is that this solution doesn’t take much room and is suitable even for smaller apartments.
Personally, horizontal bike wall mounts are my favorite because it’s easier to hang a bike on the mount.
Lifting a bike horizontally is always easier than vertically. Horizontal bike wall mounts are usually placed lower than vertical bike wall mounts. This is important for shorter people as bikes can be heavy to lift.
Another advantage of horizontal bike wall mounts is that it leaves more free space beneath the bike. Also, I like that a horizontally placed bike takes up less space depth-wise.
Worth mentioning that horizontal bike wall mounts are more expensive and require more tools and holes in the wall to be mounted correctly.
Vertical bike wall mounts
Another popular option is a vertical bike wall mount. Very easy to install and takes up less horizontal space in the apartment.
One of the differences is that it leaves less floor space as the bike hangs vertically and the lower wheel almost touches the floor. Another key difference to consider is that it takes more depth space.
It would be best if you used your vertical bike wall mount somewhere in the corner. Otherwise, it can start making trouble when passing by.
Nevertheless, vertical bike wall mounts are the perfect option for those who live in small apartments.
I recommend installing vertical wall mounts as close as possible to one of the corners to use this nonpractical space.
Keep in mind that vertical wall mounts are much higher than horizontal ones. Therefore, you must be tall and strong enough to lift your bike.
Vertical wall mounts come in various sizes and styles, so you can find one that fits your apartment style and colors. Another key advantage is that vertical bike wall mounts are cheaper than horizontal bike wall mounts.
For extra careful people, horizontal wall mounts provide security measures such as anti-theft cables and locks.
Which apartment bike storage solution fits me best? Horizontal vs. Vertical bike wall mounts
Horizontal and vertical bike wall mounts are apartments’ most popular bike storage solutions. Still, there are some key differences between them.
The main difference between horizontal and vertical bike mounts is how they occupy your space.
We recommend choosing a horizontal bike wall mount if:
- You’re a short person or your bike is too heavy to lift up high
- You prefer free space beneath the bike
- You might use two bikes at the same time
- You want to hang other items, such as plants or decorative pieces
- You’re okay with spending a bit more money on a horizontal bike wall mount
- You’re okay with drilling more holes into the wall and using more screws and brackets
We recommend choosing a vertical bike wall mount if:
- Your wall space is limited
- You don’t mind lifting your bike above your head level
- You don’t mind losing floor space as the rear wheel might touch the ground
- You prefer to spend less
- You want to drill fewer holes into the wall and prefer the easier installation
What to do if I am not allowed to make any holes in the wall?
Bike storage can be difficult in an apartment if you’re not allowed to drill any holes into the wall. Luckily there are plenty of options on the market available like door and staircase mounts, bike pulleys, bike tents and different bike stand solutions.
Bike stands come in all shapes and sizes, from simple single-bike vertical stands to larger models holding up to four bikes at once. Bike racks are also available for apartments allowing multiple bikes to be stored in a compact space without taking up too much floor area.
Bike door mounts
Bike door mounts are a great way to store your bike if you live in an apartment and can’t drill any holes. They can be attached to almost any door without drilling or other complex installations.
Bike door mounts feature a U-shaped frame that attaches to the top and bottom of the door while the bike’s frame rests on the mount itself. Bike door mounts are adjustable so that you can easily fit any bike.
Most models also come with foam padding along the surface of the mount to protect your bike and door from scratches or dents.
The beauty of bike door mounts is that they provide ample support for your cycle while taking up minimal floor space – with a bike door mount installed, you can easily access your bike whenever you need it without having to move furniture around or find a different area in your apartment for storage.
In case you live in a dorm, add an extra security layer. Bike door mounts usually have integrated locks that keep your bike safe from theft or unwanted usage.
Bike door mounts are one of the best options for those who don’t want to drill holes and seek simplicity over fancy solutions.
Staircase mounts
Bike staircase mounts are incredibly durable and can hold up to 45 lbs (20kg). They are a great choice for those who own heavier bikes or worry too much about breaking something in their apartment.
Staircase bike mounts are incredibly practical if you can attach them underside the stairs. This way, you might start using space that you never used before.
The installation is straightforward. If your staircase underside is empty and you are looking for a practical, durable and secure way to store your bikes – this is the way.
Bike pulleys
Bike pulleys are an innovative and cost-effective way to store your bike in small spaces such as apartments. Bike pulleys are designed to be mounted onto the ceiling of any room, providing a secure and space-saving solution for those who need bicycle storage without taking up too much room. Bike pulleys work by suspending the bicycle from the ceiling via a rope or chain at both frame ends. The bike is secured by a locking mechanism that prevents it from being removed without permission.
Unlike vertical or horizontal bike mounts, bike pulleys require no drilling or complex installations whatsoever – all you need is a few screws and some string/chain for suspension, and you’re good to go!
Bike Pulleys offer superior security to traditional racks since they are securely attached to the ceiling; this makes them nearly impossible to break into or remove without proper tools. Plus, they’re incredibly durable and require minimal maintenance over time – many models even come with anti-rust coatings, which can help extend their life further.
Regarding aesthetics, Bike pulleys offer plenty of options depending on the model purchased. Some models feature adjustable arms that allow you to adjust the height of your bike according to your needs.
In contrast, others come with extra padding along the mount to protect your bike from scratches or dents.
Other models even come with decorative features such as paint jobs which can add a nice touch of style and elegance to any room in your home!
For anyone who lacks adequate space for their bike apartment and wants to create a WOW effect on their guest – bike pulleys are a great option.
Bike tents (outdoor)
Bike tents provide unique bike storage solutions for the outdoors. The main purpose of bike tents is to protect them from the elements (rain, snow, excessive rain or rain) and unwanted guests.
Bike tents are typically composed of a sturdy, waterproof canvas material designed to repel rain and snow while providing adequate ventilation to keep bikes dry. They come in different sizes and can fit several bikes at a time.
Some bike tents offer additional security features like security locks to minimize theft or vandalism possibility.
Bike tents are usually easy to set up and don’t require to be extra savvy in such things. Overall, it’s a great option for those who live outside the city and have no indoor space for their bikes but have protected land.
Conclusion
Bike storage in the apartment isn’t as complicated as it seems. There are plenty of options on the market and surely, every person will find the right option that will meet all the requirements.
My personal best is a horizontal bike wall mount as it’s mounted at a reasonable height, handles more than one bike and leaves enough room beneath for a small table. For those who admire aesthetics and style, a horizontal bike wall mount is a great choice as you can decorate it.
Another of my favorite is bike door mounts, which don’t require drilling and are perfect for dormitory rooms or very small apartments. They offer different security solutions to make your bike storage as safe as possible.
Read an article about 21 different bike types and learn which type suits you best.
FAQ:
Does the vertical bike wall mount damage the bike if hanging by the wheel?
No. Vertical bike wall mounts shouldn’t damage the bike when hanging by the wheel. Ensure your mount is installed properly and the bike is attached correctly.
Good quality vertical bike wall mounts should have special padding that protects your bike rims, spokes and tires. If you don’t have any protective padding, you may wrap the hooks in with something soft and remember – be gentle and don’t pull your bike with excessive force.
Is Hanging A Bike Upside Down Bad For It?
Hanging a bike upside down for an extensive amount of time may weaken your tires and spokes due to pressure. However, if you’re using your bike daily or weekly, then it shouldn’t be a problem.
The only concern to be cautious of is if you have hydraulic brakes, then you should avoid hanging your bike upside down even for shorter periods. This is because brake fluid might lose its consistency and ruin the braking mechanism.
Is it bad to hang a bike with hydraulic brakes vertically?
Hanging a bike vertically that hydraulic brakes are fine most of the time. It’s important to know whether your hydraulic brakes are sealed or not. If they are sealed, then brake fluid can’t get mixed with air and there is nothing to worry about.
If your system is not sealed, you should avoid hanging your bike as brake fluid might lose its consistency and worsen the braking capabilities.
Can you hang a bike by the front wheel?
Yes. Vertical bike wall mounts shouldn’t damage the bike when hanging by the wheel. Ensure your mount is installed properly and the bike is attached correctly.
Good quality vertical bike wall mounts should have special padding that protects your bike rims, spokes and tires. If you don’t have any protective padding, you may wrap the hooks in with something soft and remember – be gentle and don’t pull your bike with excessive force.
Is it okay to hang your bike by the frame?
Yes. Horizontal bike wall mounts are extremely durable and safe for your bike. In fact, this is my favorite way of keeping my bike indoors, as it’s easy to install and convenient when used properly.
Can you hang a bike with carbon wheels?
Yes. The horizontal bike wall mount is safe for sporty bikes with carbon wheels. Just make sure to have foam, a towel, or a softener between the mount and your wheels. Don’t use excessive force and stay gentle.
Can you hang a carbon bike from the top tube?
Yes! It’s completely safe. Just be careful not to scratch your bike. Use a softener around the mount before attaching your bike.
