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How To Store A BMX Bike?

how to store a bmx bike

In this article, we’re diving into something important yet often overlooked – how to store a BMX bike.

We all know the thrill of nailing that perfect trick or cruising through our favorite spots, but taking good care of our bikes when not riding is just as crucial.

Why, you ask?

Proper storage not only keeps your bike safe and sound but also ensures it’s always ready for your next session.

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I’ll walk you through everything from the pre-storage prep to finding the perfect spot for your bike, whether in your home or elsewhere.

Ensure your BMX bike gets the TLC it deserves so that you can enjoy (EVEN) more successful sessions.

This post covers:

Note: Do you know what does BMX stand for?

Understanding Your BMX Bike’s Storage Needs

Storing your BMX bike is not just about finding a random corner in your garage; it’s about understanding the specific needs of your rad ride.

Location

First things first, let’s talk about location, location, location.

Picking the right spot for your BMX is like choosing a perfect home for a pet. You wouldn’t want your furry friend to be uncomfortable, right?

The same goes for your bike! Indoor spots like your garage, shed, or even a hallway (if you don’t mind the extra decor) are usually the best bets.

Why? Because they protect your bike from the elements.

Rain, snow, excessive sun – these ARE NOT friends of your BMX. They can lead to rust, faded paint jobs, and other sad bike woes.

But hey, I get it; not everyone has the luxury of indoor space. If you’re storing your BMX outdoors, try to find a spot sheltered from harsh weather.

Pro tip: Invest in a good bike cover. It’s like a cozy blanket that keeps your BMX safe from rain and sun.

Safety

We love our BMX bikes, and unfortunately, so do thieves.

When picking a storage spot, think about SECURITY.

Indoors, keep your bike in a locked area if possible.

Outdoors, make sure to use a sturdy lock, and if you can, store your bike in a visible area where it’s less likely to be tampered with.

Pre-Storage Preparation

Before we tuck our beloved bikes in for a bit of a rest, let’s make sure they’re clean and happy.

Pre-storage preparation is like giving your bike a mini spa day, and trust me, it’s going to thank you for it.

Step 1: Cleaning Your Bike

  • Gather your supplies: You’ll need some soap, a sponge or cloth, a brush for those tricky spots, and a bucket of water.
  • Rinse it down: Start by gently rinsing your bike to remove any loose dirt or grime.
  • Soap time: Mix some mild soap with water in your bucket. Use your sponge or cloth to wash every part of your BMX. Remember, it’s been through a lot with you.
  • Scrub-a-dub-dub: Use the brush for the chain and gears – these areas deserve extra attention.
  • Rinse again: Give your bike another rinse to wash away all the soap.
  • Dry off: Use a clean towel to dry your bike, or let it air dry if it’s a sunny day.

Note: If you don’t have a place to wash your bike with soapy water, just use a dry cloth and wipe it thoroughly. That’s what I always do.

Step 2: Basic Maintenance Checks

  • Tire pressure: Check those tires! Make sure they’re pumped to the right pressure. (See my guide on what the best BMX tire pressure is.)
  • Brake check: Squeeze those brakes and ensure they’re working perfectly. We don’t want any surprises when we hit the road again. (Skip this step if you’re brakeless.)
  • Give it a once-over: Look for loose bolts or parts that might need tightening. A quick tune-up can go a long way.

Note: I also have a full BMX bike maintenance guide to keep your bike running smoothly. And these are the essential BMX tools to take care of the maintenance like a pro.

Your BMX is now squeaky clean and well-checked, ready for its cozy storage spot.

Choosing The Right Storage Space

It’s time to discuss choosing the perfect snooze spot for your bike. Think of it as picking out a cozy bedroom for your two-wheeled pal!

Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage: Pros & Cons

Indoor Storage 🏠

  • Pros: It’s like a warm hug for your bike! Indoors means protection from rain, sun, and those sneaky thieves. Plus, no rust worries, and it’s always within your sight.
  • Cons: Space can be an issue. Not everyone has a spare room or a large garage. And, let’s be honest, bikes can be a bit of a tripping hazard if not stored properly.

Pro tip: Even if the place is tight, I still prefer to store my bike indoors (in a dry area).

Outdoor Storage 🌳

  • Pros: Space isn’t a problem! You can find spots like under a deck or on the side of your house.
  • Cons: Your bike is exposed to weather changes, which can mean rust or damage. Security is another thing – outdoors can be risky if not locked up properly.

Evaluating Space & Environment

  • Space availability: Measure up! Make sure there’s enough room for your BMX to fit without playing Tetris whenever you need to get it out.
  • Environmental conditions: Is the spot dry and cool? Watch out for areas with high humidity or drastic temperature changes. These aren’t the best for your bike’s health.

So, think of your bike like a good friend. You want it to be safe, comfortable, and ready for your next session.

Storage Methods & Solutions

bmx bike storage methods and solutions
Let’s dive into the fun world of storage methods and solutions for your beloved bike.

It’s like finding the perfect bed for your BMX – because even bikes need a comfy resting place!

Wall Mounts & Bike Racks

  • Types: From sleek horizontal mounts to vertical hangers, there’s a style for every space. Some even have cool shelves for your helmet and gear!
  • Installation tips: Find a sturdy wall (think solid brick or a stud in a drywall – BMX isn’t the lightest) and make sure you’re using the right tools and screws. Level up that mount and drill away.

Floor Stands & Ceiling Hoists

  • Floor stands: Perfect if you have floor space to spare. Just roll your bike in, and voilà – it’s snug and secure.
  • Ceiling hoists: These are fantastic space-savers. They use a pulley system to lift your bike up and away. Just ensure your ceiling can handle the weight, and you’re good to hoist.

DIY Storage Solutions

  • Get creative: Have some old hooks lying around? Turn them into a bike rack. Got an unused corner? Add some padding and make a bike corner stand.
  • Cost-effective ideas: Pallets can be repurposed into bike stands, and simple hooks from the hardware store can make an effective and cheap wall mount.

Flip Your Bike Around

Whenever I store my bike in an apartment, I just flip it around, so it sits on my grips and seat. That’s it!

And usually, there’s always enough place for storing a bike like that.

Remember, the goal is to keep your BMX safe, secure, and out of the way until your next session.

Protecting Your BMX Bike During Storage

Let’s talk about giving your bike the ultimate protection during its downtime.

Here’s how you can keep it safe and sound:

Covering Your Bike

  • Types of covers: From breathable fabric covers to those fancy UV-resistant ones, there’s a whole range to choose from. Some are even waterproof for outdoor storage.
  • Benefits: The covers protect against dust, moisture, and unexpected scratches. They’re like a protective shield, keeping your bike in tip-top shape.

Security Measures

  • Lock it up: Even if stored inside, a good lock is a BMX’s best friend. Think of a sturdy U-lock or a heavy-duty chain lock.
  • Be smart: If you’re storing it outside, keep it out of plain sight and in a well-lit area. The less tempting it is for bike thieves, the better!

Long-Term Storage Tips

  • Lubricate moving parts: Keep those chains and gears lubricated. It’s like moisturizer for your bike – keeps everything smooth and prevents rust.
  • Inflate the tires: Keeping them inflated prevents them from developing flat spots or cracking due to being underinflated.

Protecting your BMX during storage is all about thinking ahead.

A little bit of care goes a long way in ensuring your bike is always ready for your next riding session.

Preparing Your BMX Bike For Post-Storage Use

The sun’s out, and it’s time to wake your bike from its slumber.

Let’s get your BMX ready to roll again with some easy steps and safety checks.

Think of it as a gentle wake-up call for your two-wheeled buddy.

Getting Your Bike Ready Post-Storage

  • Dust off & inspect: Start by giving your bike a good wipe down. Look for any signs of rust or wear that might have popped up during storage.
  • Check the tires: Pump those tires up to the recommended pressure. They might have lost a bit of air while resting.
  • Spin those wheels: Give each wheel a spin to make sure they’re moving freely and not wobbling.

Safety Checks & Adjustments

  • Brake check: Squeeze those brakes and make sure they’re responding well. Adjust them if they feel loose or too tight.
  • Bolt & chain check: Tighten loose bolts and give that chain a quick lube job for smooth riding.
  • Test ride: Before heading out on a long session, take a short spin around your area. It’s like stretching your legs after a long nap.

Remember, taking a few minutes to prep your BMX means you can ride confidently, knowing your bike is as ready as you are for the adventures ahead.

Conclusion: Master BMX Bike Storage!

Wow, we’ve covered quite a bit, haven’t we?

From finding the perfect spot to store your bike, to tucking it in nicely and then waking it up again for more fun.

Let’s do a quick recap of our BMX bike care adventure:

  • Understanding storage needs: We chatted about the perfect storage spots, considering our BMX bikes’ unique size and design, and how the environment affects them.
  • Pre-storage prep: We gave our bikes a mini spa treatment with a good clean and maintenance check.
  • Choosing the right space: We weighed the pros and cons of indoor vs. outdoor storage and looked at how to pick the best spot.
  • Storage solutions: We explored different methods like wall mounts, floor stands, and even some cool DIY options.
  • Protecting your bike: We discussed covering it, keeping it secure, and prepping it for long-term storage.
  • Post-storage prep: We got our bikes ready to hit the road again with some important safety checks.

Remember, these steps aren’t just chores; they’re acts of love for your BMX bike.

Following these guidelines will extend the lifespan of your bike and ensure it’s always performing at its best.

Keep riding, keep smiling, and let’s make every BMX session an epic one.

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About Author

Rok has been riding BMX for 20+ years, and when he's not having a session, he binges on videos, new product drops and works on creating the best content (sharing tips, tricks & more to make riding bikes easier for you) for The BMX Dude.

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