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There are compelling reasons why you might want to store your bike indoors. You may not have a secure outside space, or any outside space at all. Even if you do, you may not want to expose the bike to bad weather. Bikes sitting outside in damp, rain or snow will need more maintenance.
There are also security issues, particularly in a city. For me, it’s always been a combination of all these reasons. My bike stays inside when I’m not using it. In every place I’ve lived, I’ve always created a bit of space for it to lean against the wall. But if I had a pound for every expletive I’ve used whenever I’ve knocked into it or snagged the handlebar or pedal – frankly, I’d be rich by now.
To avoid this awkwardness and to keep your bike as safe as possible, it’s worth considering an indoor storage solution. One such solution is a bike shelf, which not only stores the bike safely out of the way, but can also be a minimalist and very stylish addition to the home.
Indoor Bike Storage
There are numerous ways you can store one or more bikes inside. The options range from cheap and functional bike racks to elaborate systems involving a pulley. There are also bike stands, hangers and hooks, and of course, bike shelves.
How you decide to store your bike will depend on the space you have. But there are storage solutions to suit any kind of space, all of which are more practical (and far less annoying) than simply leaning it against the wall.
Bike Shelves
A bike shelf is a simple, effective and neat solution to bike storage. The shelf is attached to the wall and the bike frame sits horizontally in a recessed notch. Some bike shelves are designed to blend effortlessly into the surrounding décor and can be a beautiful addition to the home.
Bike Racks
There are many different kinds of bike racks that can cater for virtually any preference for bike storage.
Floor racks hold the bike (or multiple bikes) upright on the floor, usually by securing the wheel, which slides in. They are functional, with many affordable options, and good for people with plenty of floor space.
Freestanding horizontal racks, for storing a bike horizontally, keep the bike close to the wall and take up far less floor room. Some are designed for two bikes to be stored, one on top of the other.
Vertical racks are usually attached to the wall and store the bike vertically. This takes up less wall space, but more space in the room as the bikes stick out. It could be a decent option if you have an alcove, but generally this is how larger numbers of bikes are stored – often in bike shops. It also means lifting the bike in a way that could be difficult for some.
Bike Hangers and Hooks
These attach to the wall and the bike hangs by the frame or the wheel. Some have built in security which is a useful addition, particularly if used in an outbuilding.
Bike Stands
Stands come in all shapes and sizes, some of which are adjustable and foldable. The downside is they’re not always the most stable things, and risk being knocked over in a smaller space.
Spring Loaded Bike Stands
These operate by holding the wheel in a cradle, which is supported by a spring-loaded arm. They are generally more stable than ordinary bike stands as the wheel sits deeper in the cradle.
Floor-to-Ceiling Bicycle Columns
Bicycle columns consist of a pole that wedges between the floor and the ceiling, with sets of arms for hanging the bike on. These are a good option for those wanting to store multiple bikes stably, without drilling any holes in the walls.
Bike Storage Ideas for Small Spaces
For small places where there isn’t a lot of floor space, storing a bike against a wall can minimise the space used. This can be done with a bike shelf, a horizontal or vertical bike rack, or a bike hook or hanger. But if space is still an issue, then a ceiling mounted bike hoist could provide the answer.
Ceiling mounted hoists are engineered with a pulley system that enables you to hoist the bike up by the seat and handlebars. In most cases the bike will be suspended horizontally. Installation will inevitably be more involved and difficult, but once done, it’s a great solution for storing one or more bikes in a small space.
For those with a small space and a low ceiling – there are pulley systems that can store a bike so that it hangs horizontally. It might feel a little more elaborate getting the bike up and down, but when used to it, it’s a smart solution for a tiny home.
Bike Shelf vs Bike Rack
Choosing a bike shelf or a rack can depend on how many bikes you have and also how much floor space. Bike racks can be more flexible and many are designed for more than one bike. Bike shelves, however, can be perfect for small spaces and minimalist décor.
Home Bike Rack [PROS + CONS]
| Bike Rack Pros | Bike Rack Cons |
|---|---|
| Some bike racks are available as non-permanent/freestanding, which means they are flexible, should you decide to move things around. They’re also a better option for those renting, where it may be forbidden to drill into the wall, or for those whose walls aren’t strong enough to support the weight of a bike. | A freestanding bike rack for two bikes means lifting the second bike quite high, which could be a problem for some. |
| Bike racks are a good option for those wishing to store more than one bike. | Bike racks look, for the most part, like bike racks. This isn’t necessarily a problem, but could be if you’re interested in aesthetic as well as function. |
| The sheer range of different bike racks available means you can store your bike where you want and how you want – whether on the floor or against the wall | Many bike racks take up more room than a bike shelf, which can be a problem in small spaces. |
Bike Shelf [PROS + CONS]
| Bike Shelf Pros | Bike Shelf Cons |
|---|---|
| They have the aesthetic edge. A bike shelf can be a thing of beauty and style, blending effortlessly into a contemporary urban space. | Most bike shelves will only store one bike. |
| The shelf can be used for other objects (functional or otherwise) as well as a bike. | Bike shelf installation does involve putting holes in the walls, which may not be possible in a rental property or where the walls are not strong enough. |
| They are neat and easy to install, with non-scratch material to protect the bike frame. | Most bike shelves will only store one bike. Bike shelf installation does involve putting holes in the walls, which may not be possible in a rental property or where the walls are not strong enough. Stylish bike shelves are rarely the cheapest option for bike storage. |
| You can install them at a height that is comfortable for you. |
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Minimalist Bicycle Shelves [Top 4]
1. BOTL Amsterdam Bike Hangers
Made from oak wood, these hangers are designed to compliment any interior. The ethos at BOTL Amsterdam is about “making small spaces inspiring”, and this particular shelf does just that. The fact that there are no screws showing after mounting, to create a “floating” effect, simply illustrates the care implemented in the design.
Combining style and functionality, the shelf has room for accessories on the top along with storage space in the middle, making the most out of a small space. Crafted out of 100% oak with a natural oil finish, it is quite simply a work of art and will be a unique feature in your home.
BOTL offers a variety of bike storage options, all of which are sustainable and stylish. Some of the designs are available in smoked or dark oak as well as natural, and some are available without a finish. The prices range from around £25 to just over £80, depending on the design, but they are all hand crafted and of premium quality.
- Maximum Weight: 12.5kg
- Size: 12.5 x 28 x 30 cm
- How to Install: Mounts to the wall with screws. Mounting hardware included
- Price (at time of publication):
- 🇬🇧UK: £96
- 🇪🇺EU: €115
- 🇺🇸US: $130
2. Loma Living Minimalist Wooden Bike Shelf
This beautiful, handmade hardwood shelf is available in mahogany, walnut, maple or tiger maple. It’s finished with a transparent coating to show off the natural grain of the wood and has a recessed notch for the bike’s top tube to sit securely. The rest of the shelf can be used for accessories, or anything else.
The angled design is in keeping with minimalist décor and this stylish shelf can be easily used in a small space, keeping the bike against the wall and out of the way. Being simple to install with instructions included, this is a wonderful and artistic storage solution for cyclists who are design-conscious and have limited space.
The notch sits 23 cm (9 inches) away from the wall, making it a good fit for road bikes and fixed gear cycles. Bikes with longer handlebars will rest at a slight angle away from the wall.
- Size: 23cm x 23cm
- Wall Plate Size: 18cm
- How to Install: Hardware included. Two screws inserted into a wall stud or wall anchor
- Price (at time of publication):
- 🇬🇧UK: £120.16
- 🇪🇺EU: €145.03
- 🇺🇸US: $153.60
3. The WC Bike Shelf Wall Mount
Ideal for almost any bicycle, this distinctive bike shelf has been crafted with love and care from reclaimed wood. It’s a stand-out design with plenty of room for storage whilst making valuable use of a small space.
The shelf comes with a choice of thirteen different finishes (including no finish, if that’s your preference). With colours and stains ranging from black to white / dark to light, there’s ample opportunity to select something that suits your home perfectly. You can also choose a combination of felt padding and a strap to further protect and secure your bike. The stabilizer strap is a useful accessory that can also be used when transporting your bike.
This is a versatile shelf, made with great attention to detail and care for the environment. Whilst not the cheapest option, it is a beautiful product that will add style and character to your home.
- Size: 15.2 x 30.5 x 30.5 cm
- How to Install: Mounts to the wall. Instructions and hardware included for stud mounting
- Price (at time of publication):
- 🇬🇧UK: £110
- 🇪🇺EU: €132
- 🇺🇸US: $149
4. PARAX Bicycle Wall Mount S-Rack
Available in black or white, and with a choice of a walnut or birch wood veneer, this shelf has a neat and minimalist design with an integrated inner space for storage. The variations allow you to choose a combination that best suits you and your living space.
The bike sits securely in a notch with a non-slip grip, along with felt padding to prevent any scratches to the frame. You can also order a D-strap as an accessory – a leather strap with Velcro that will secure the wheel to the frame.
The body of the shelf is made of powder-coated aluminum. It’s not only capable of withstanding a heavy load, but has a clean, sleek and modern look. It’s a perfect fusion of contemporary style and durability.
Being easy to assemble and lovely to look at, this is a great option for a modern, minimalist home, at a good price too.
- Maximum Weight: 20kg
- Size: 10 x 24 x 30 cm
- How to Install: Mounts to the wall with screws. Fastening material and intelligent drilling template supplied
- Price (at time of publication):
- 🇬🇧UK: £66
- 🇪🇺EU: €79
- 🇺🇸US: $89
