
4 Places to Store Your Bike Outside
Published September 20, 2024 | Updated March 19, 2025
Tags
Sometimes, you have no choice but to keep your bike outside. Bikes are meant for outdoor use of course, but with longer term outdoor storage, they can rust or get stolen. Here are a few options for outdoor bike storage to help protect your possessions.
Classic Wooden Garden Shed
A wooden backyard shed offers the most protection, and is the perfect option if you have access to one or can build one. A classic yard shed has the nice benefit that you can handily store multiple bikes, accessories, and tools. Having enough ventilation is also crucial, so there’s no build-up of moisture, which can damage your ride. It also needs to have locks for the doors.
If you have a small shed on your property that's currently occupied by some old rakes and a broken down lawnmower, now is the perfect time to clean it up and install some storage hooks for your bike.
Frame-and-tarp shed
If you don't already have a shed and you don't have the budget for one, but you do have room, a frame-and-tarp shed like the ShelterLogic Shed-in-a-Box could be a good choice to keep your bike protected from the elements and hidden from view. The material won't be very secure against thieves, but at least your bike won't be out there in plain sight.
Don’t use just any old tent, though. It has to be made a sturdy "temporary building" that can be out in the elements year-round and withstand storms. This style of storage shed is ideal for renters or anyone who wants portable storage they can move around if needed.
Balcony
If you live in an apartment building, do you have a balcony that your bike would fit on? For apartment dwellers, this is about the only outdoor storage option available for your bike.
Deck/Porch
If you're lucky enough to have a backyard deck, storing your bike there will help keep it out of sight from the street and protected from the elements. If you only have a front yard porch or deck, consider adding a privacy screen to keep your bike out of sight.
Outdoor Bike Rack: Secure and Accessible
If there’s not already a bike rack where you live, buy your own. Install it in a safe place near your front door or driveway so you can see it. You don't want to ensure the bike rack is securely installed so I can't just be simply lifted up and moved. Pair it with a high-quality bike lock threaded through the rear triangle and back wheel. Add a shelter or awning for extra protection. This setup is perfect for daily riders who need quick access with added security.
Do your research and choose the best type of storage for your home. It’s worth spending more to get something reliable.