Creating a functional and organized storage solution for your children’s bicycles can be a game-changer for any garage or outdoor space. This DIY kids’ bicycle rack project offers a practical and mobile storage option that keeps bikes tidy and easily accessible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of building a custom bike rack that can accommodate various bike sizes and be moved easily when needed. In the above video, Jen Largesse from House One demonstrates how to construct this versatile storage solution.
Materials and Tools Needed to Build the Bike Rack
Before starting construction on your bike rack, gather all the necessary materials and tools.
Materials
- 2 x 4 x 8 boards (8 for a small bike rack, 9 for a large bike rack)
- 4 locking caster wheels (2-inch)
- 2½-inch wood screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Wood primer and paint or wood stain (optional)
Tools
- Pencil
- Speed square
- Tape measure
- Drill/driver
- Miter saw
- Countersink drill bit
- Paintbrush (if painting or staining)
- Safety goggles
Choosing the Right Size for Your Bike Rack
Selecting the appropriate size for your DIY bike rack will help ensure it meets your storage needs. Consider the following factors when deciding between a small-medium or medium-large bike rack:
- Size of the bikes (children’s vs. adult): If you’re mostly concerned with getting smaller children’s bikes out of the way, or you have several little ones with trikes and training wheels, the smaller bike rack may make more sense.
- Available space in your garage or storage area: If you’re limited on space in your garage or shed, then you may want to choose the smaller bike rack.
- Flexibility for future bike sizes: If you’re anticipating that the kids won’t have their training wheels for long, or they’re close to sizing up to larger bikes, then opt for the bigger bike rack.
Small-Medium Bike Rack Dimensions
The small-medium bike rack is ideal for younger children’s bikes or when space is limited. Here are the key measurements:
- Base width: 57 inches
- Base depth: 28½ inches
- Height: 48 inches
- Slot width: 2½ inches for each bike
Medium-Large Bike Rack Dimensions
For older children or a mix of bike sizes, the medium-large rack offers more versatility:
- Slot width: 3 inches for each bike
- Base width: 57 inches
- Base depth: 32 inches
- Height: 64 inches
Cut List
Small-Medium Bike Rack
- 2 x 4 Base Front and Back – 2 @ 57″
- 2 x 4 Base Dividers – 2 @ 10″
- 2 x 4 Base Ends – 2 @ 28 ½”
- 2 x 4 Vertical Sides – 2 @ 48″
- 2 x 4 Angled Supports – 2 @ 39″
- 2 x 4 Back Top and Bottom – 2 @ 60″
- 2 x 4 Back Slots – 8 @ 33″
Medium to Large Bike Rack
- 2 x 4 Base Front and Back – 2 @ 57″
- 2 x 4 Base Dividers – 5 @ 10″
- 2 x 4 Base Ends – 2 @ 32″
- 2 x 4 Vertical Sides – 2 @ 64″
- 2 x 4 Angles Supports – 2 @ 44 ½”
- 2 x 4 Back Top and Bottom- 2 @ 60″
- 2 x 4 Back Slots- 8 @ 33″
Steps for Building a DIY Kids Bike Rack
Once you choose your preferred size, follow these steps to build the bike rack:
1. Cut the Parts to Size
Using one of our cut lists, cut all the 2 x 4 parts to size—except the angled supports—using a miter saw.
2. Mark the Pieces
- Mark the location and spacing of the boards on the horizontal base and back pieces.
- Transfer the lines to the inside face of each board.
- Predrill two holes at each connection point.
3. Assemble the Base
- Layout the pieces of the base so that the ends run long beyond the back of the base.
- Assemble the parts with glue and screws.
- If using the cut list for larger bikes, but you want the rack to work for small bikes as well, install extra dividers into the base to “pinch” the back tire of the small bikes, and a back rail for the front tire to rest on, since the tire won’t reach the taller slots.
4. Assemble the Back
- Layout the parts of the back wall so that the ends run long beyond the bottom board of the assembly.
- Connect the pieces with glue and screws.
5. Attach the Base to the Back
Now connect the assembled base to the assembled back using glue and screws.
6. Add the Angled Supports
- Miter one end of each angled sideboard to 50 degrees.
- Position an angled support along one side, with the miter cut against the back wall.
- Slide the miter along the back until the front edge aligns with the front edge of the base.
- Mark the front edge and underside of the base onto the board, and then cut both boards with a miter saw.
- Attach the angled supports to the back wall and base with glue and screws.
7. Mount the Caster Wheels
- Attach two-inch locking casters to the underside of each corner of the base.
- Flip the bike rack upright.
8. Insert the Bikes
To insert a bike, set the back tire onto the base, and slide the front tire into one of the slots.
9. Painting or Staining (Optional)
For additional durability and customization, consider painting or staining your bike rack:
- Apply a coat of wood primer if you plan to paint.
- Once the primer is dry, apply your chosen paint or stain.
- Allow the finish to dry completely before using the bike rack.
Using Your New Bike Rack
With construction complete, it’s time to put your new bike rack to use. Here’s how to properly store bikes on your DIY rack:
- Set the back tire of the bike onto the base.
- Slide the front tire into one of the vertical slots on the back wall.
- For smaller bikes on a large rack, use the horizontal back rail for support.
If the kids have been riding through the mud, this bike rack also becomes a convenient cleaning station. Simply insert the bikes and hose down the tires, then wipe dry with an old rag or towel.
Bicycle Rack Customization Options
While the basic design is highly functional, you can also customize your bike rack to better suit your needs or add a flair of personal style:
- Paint or stain the wood to match your decor or protect it from the elements.
- Add hooks on the sides for helmets, locks, or other bike accessories.
- Install a small shelf on top for additional storage.
- Personalize the rack with your child’s name, favorite colors, or other design elements.
Maintenance Tips for Your DIY Bike Rack
To keep your DIY bike rack in top condition, periodically check and tighten all screws and bolts. Clean and inspect the caster wheels to ensure smooth movement, and apply a fresh coat of paint or sealant annually, particularly if the rack is used outdoors.
Safety Considerations When Using Your Bike Rack
When using your new bike rack, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Always engage the locking mechanism on the casters when the rack is in use.
- Teach children how to properly place and remove their bikes to prevent tipping.
- Ensure the rack is placed on a level surface to maintain stability.
