Bike Shelters
Secure Storage for Your Bike, Rain or Shine!
Keep your bike safe and dry with our sturdy steel outdoor cycle stands! With a range of sizes available, including options up to 10 metres long, you'll be able to find the perfect fit for your needs. Our shelters feature clear UV stabilised plastic roofs that keep the rain out, so you can rest easy knowing that your bike is protected. Perfect for use in public spaces like schools and shopping centres, our bike shelters are a must-have for any cycling enthusiast.
What Are Bike Shelters?
Bike shelters are structures designed to protect bicycles from the elements. They can be made of a variety of materials, such as steel or plastic, and are often found in public spaces like schools, shopping centres, and office buildings. Bike shelters typically have a roof to keep out rain and sun, and may also have walls or other features to further protect bikes from the weather. Some bike shelters may also have additional amenities like racks for locking bikes or electrical outlets for charging e-bikes. They are a convenient and secure place for people to store their bikes when they are not in use.
What Are Some Common Uses for Bike Shelters?
Bike shelters can be used in a variety of settings, including schools, shopping centres, office buildings, and other public spaces. They are often used as a secure and convenient place for people to store their bikes when they are not in use. Bike shelters can also be used to encourage cycling as a form of transportation by providing a secure place for people to store their bikes while they are at work or running errands. In addition, bike shelters can be used to protect bikes from the weather, which can help to extend the life of the bike and keep it in good working condition. Bike shelters can also be used to create a more bike-friendly environment and promote a healthy, active lifestyle.
What Are the Different Types of Bike Shelters?
There are several different types of bike shelters, including:
- Freestanding bike shelters: These shelters are standalone structures that are not attached to any other buildings. They are typically made of metal or plastic and have a roof to protect bikes from the elements.
- Wall-mounted bike shelters: These shelters are attached to a wall or other vertical surface and may have a roof and/or walls to protect bikes from the weather.
- In-ground bike shelters: These shelters are partially or fully buried in the ground and have a roof to protect bikes from the weather.
- Bike lockers: These are small, individual storage units that are used to securely store bikes. They may be freestanding or wall-mounted and may be made of metal or plastic.
- Bike racks: These are simple structures that hold bikes vertically using frames or hooks. They do not provide protection from the weather, but can be used in conjunction with bike shelters or other forms of bike storage.
What Are the Key Features to Consider When Choosing Bike Shelters?
Some key features to consider when choosing bike shelters include:
- Size: Make sure the shelter is large enough to accommodate the number of bikes you need to store. Measure the space where the shelter will be located and consider the size of the bikes you will be storing to ensure a good fit.
- Material: Bike shelters can be made of a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. Consider the durability and weather resistance of the material, as well as its aesthetic appeal.
- Roof design: The roof of a bike shelter should be sloped to allow water to run off and prevent pooling. It should also be made of a durable material that can withstand the elements.
- Wall design: If the bike shelter has walls, consider whether they are solid or made of a more open design. Solid walls can provide more protection from the elements, but may not allow as much airflow.
- Security: If you are concerned about theft or vandalism, look for a bike shelter with features like lockable doors or security cameras.
- Ease of use: Consider whether the bike shelter is easy to access and use, with features like wide doors or ramps for people with mobility issues.
- Maintenance: Consider how easy the bike shelter is to maintain and clean, as well as any ongoing maintenance costs.
- Cost: Determine your budget and consider the cost of the bike shelter, including any installation or maintenance costs.
Are Bike Shelters Secure?
The level of security provided by a bike shelter can vary depending on the design of the shelter and any additional security measures that are in place. Some shelters may have lockable doors or security cameras to help deter theft or vandalism. However, it's important to note that no bike shelter can provide complete security, and it's always a good idea to take steps to secure your bike using locks or other measures. Here are a few additional tips to help keep your bike safe:
- Use a good quality lock: Invest in a good quality lock, such as a U-lock or chain lock, to secure your bike to the shelter or rack.
- Lock your bike properly: Make sure to lock your bike through the frame, not just the wheels, and avoid leaving any slack in the lock.
- Secure any removable parts: If you have removable parts on your bike, such as a saddle or lights, be sure to take them with you or secure them separately.
- Register your bike: Consider registering your bike with your local police department or a bike registration service. This can make it easier to track your bike if it is lost or stolen.
- Consider additional security measures: If you are concerned about bike theft, consider additional security measures like security cameras or alarms.
How Do I Maintain a Bike Shelter?
To keep your bike shelter in good condition, it's important to follow a regular maintenance routine. Here are a few tips for maintaining your bike shelter:
- Keep it clean: Sweep or wipe down the inside and outside of the shelter on a regular basis to remove dirt, debris, and any other substances that may accumulate. If the shelter has a roof, be sure to remove any leaves or other debris that may accumulate.
- Check for damage: Inspect the shelter regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or loose parts. Make repairs as needed to keep the shelter in good working order.
- Replace damaged parts: If you find any parts of the shelter that are damaged beyond repair, consider replacing them to ensure the shelter continues to function properly.
- Protect the finish: If the shelter is made of metal, consider applying a rust inhibitor or other protective finish to help prevent corrosion. If the shelter is made of wood, consider applying a weatherproof finish to protect it from the elements.
- Follow the manufacturer's recommendations: If you have specific questions about maintaining your bike shelter, consult the manufacturer's recommendations or contact the manufacturer directly. They may have specific guidance on how to care for the shelter and ensure it stays in good condition.
What Safety Considerations Should Be Taken Into Account When Installing Bike Shelters?
Here are a few safety considerations to keep in mind when installing bike shelters:
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions: Make sure to carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the bike shelter. This will help ensure that the shelter is installed correctly and safely.
- Use the correct tools: Use the correct tools as recommended by the manufacturer to install the bike shelter. If you are not comfortable using certain tools, consider hiring a professional to do the installation for you.
- Wear protective gear: Wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, when installing the bike shelter to protect yourself from injury.
- Use caution when lifting heavy objects: If you are installing a large or heavy bike shelter, be sure to use proper lifting techniques and have a helper assist you if necessary.
- Check for overhead obstacles: Be sure to check for overhead obstacles, such as power lines or tree branches, before installing the bike shelter.
- Follow local building codes: Be sure to follow any local building codes or regulations when installing the bike shelter. This may include obtaining any necessary permits or inspections.
- Install the shelter on a flat, stable surface: Make sure to install the bike shelter on a flat, stable surface to ensure that it is secure and safe to use.
Are There Any UK or European Industry Standards or Regulations That Apply to Bike Shelters?
In the UK and Europe, there are several industry standards and regulations that may apply to bike shelters, depending on the type of shelter and the location where it will be installed. Here are a few examples:
- British Standard 7402: This standard covers the design and construction of cycle shelters and covers both freestanding and wall-mounted shelters. It specifies requirements for the materials, dimensions, and performance of the shelter, as well as requirements for security and maintenance.
- European Standard EN 15221: This standard covers the design, construction, and performance of bike storage systems and covers both indoor and outdoor systems. It specifies requirements for the materials, dimensions, and performance of the system, as well as requirements for security, maintenance, and sustainability.
- Building Regulations: In the UK, bike shelters may be subject to Building Regulations, which set out the standards for the design and construction of buildings and other structures. Depending on the size and complexity of the shelter, you may need to obtain planning permission and/or building regulations approval before installing the shelter.
It's important to note that these are just a few examples of the standards and regulations that may apply to bike shelters in the UK and Europe. Be sure to check with local authorities and industry organisations to determine the specific requirements that apply to your project.