The best method to prevent your bicycle from contracting rust is to keep it away from outdoor elements that can contribute to the rusting process. However, if your options are limited, your other alternative is locating an outdoor storage solution.
You want somewhere with the right amenities to withstand high winds, snow, humidity, rain, and other detrimental elements to your bicycle.
Below, we will delve into some of the best options.
#1 Bicycle Sheds
If you’re fortunate enough to own a home that comes with a yard, then erecting a bike shed can prove the best choice to keep a bike or several bikes for other family members.
Bike sheds can be bought in wood, plastic (resin or vinyl), or wood and each come with its own merits and demerits.
The plastic Suncast is ideal for safeguarding ladders, power equipment, bikes, and other outdoor equipment. It is made from long-lasting multi-walled polypropylene resin panels that are resistant to outdoor elements.
You can get a lock to keep the shed secure and also ensure the bikes are inaccessible to would-be thieves.
Among the biggest disadvantages of bicycle sheds are that they are quite costly. However, they are long-lasting and if you decide to relocate you can carry it with you.
And if you’re handy with drilling equipment, you can even build your own shed.
#2 Bicycle Tents
If there’s no available space to erect a shed, you can think about acquiring a bike tent. If you rent an apartment, you can ask the landlord whether there are any regulations against getting a bike tent.
Tents come in various shapes and styles, which is why you should get one with high-quality features, and materials. A high quality tent can offer shelter from the snow and rain, so long as you obtain a waterproof tent.
Bike tents are cost-effective and simple to assemble and are also very portable.
The disadvantage is that your bike won’t be secured while it is entirely enclosed.
#3 Bike Covers
An all-encompassing bike cover is ideal for long-term storage. Just like the cover you use for garden furniture in winter, this kind of cover will consist of waterproof and durable material with stretchable straps that go around the bike. The cover will safeguard against dust, dangerous UV rays, and moisture.
#4 Tarp
Some individuals have had tremendous success using a heavy tarp to fabricate a shelter over their bikes. Encasing the bike using a tarp will form a moisture pocket that can damage your bicycle.
If your bicycle doesn’t come featuring a kickstand, you should consider purchasing a bike rack so you can erect it and bolster it using a lock.
Tarps are budget-friendly and can be bought from your nearest hardware stores for as little as e20. Ascertain that it is resilient to strong winds to prevent it from tearing easily.
#5 Waterproof Seat Cover
A flexible cover shelters your saddle from the sun, rain, dirt, and wind. Most will feature a lace to keep it bolstered during windy days. What’s more, this elastic cover helps prevent your seat from cracking.
The highly recommended seat covers are The Karetto and Cevapro, however, they are quite pricey.
If you can’t get a seat cover, you can consider tying a plastic shopping bag to the seat to shelter your saddle from damaging UV rays from the sun.
The pitfall of this option is that it only provides shelter to your saddle, leaving the other parts of the bike exposed.
