Owning a bicycle comes with tons of benefits. Not only are they fun to ride, but they’re also a good source of exercise. An integral part of owning a bicycle is storing it properly when not in use.
One way a lot of cyclists store their bicycles is by hanging them by the wheel. So, the question is: does hanging a bike by the wheel damage it?
In short, does hanging a bike by the wheel damage it, yes. Hanging a bike vertically can damage the wheels. Storing it this way puts a lot of pressure on the bike’s rim, which can cause it to break over time.
In this post, we’ll cover different ways to store your bicycle to ensure it can fulfill your leisure and exercise needs for several years to come.
Can You Hang a Bike by the Wheel?
Storing your bike properly is as important as replacing the gears or chain. In essence, the way you store your bike is an essential part of maintenance. While it may be tempting to buy a suspension hook and hang your bike on the garage wall, there are a lot of factors to consider.
Does Hanging a Bike by the Wheel Damage It?
Hanging your bike by the wheel may be quick and convenient, but leaving it like that for too long can bend and break the rim. Other riders opt for resting the bike by the maneuvers, but this can cause the bike to fall and make it more vulnerable to damages.
One area of the bike that’s heavily affected by hanging it vertically is the hydraulic disc brakes. The hydraulic disc brakes help you stop, especially when riding through rough and muddy terrains. Hanging your bike vertically can cause damage to the brakes over time, making it more difficult to stop or slow down while riding.
Experts say that hanging a bike horizontally is far more effective than vertically. When you hang your bike horizontally, you’re taking a lot of the added pressure off the rims and hydraulic disc brakes.
While some bike shops hang their display bikes vertically, many are switching to the horizontal method to prolong the quality and safety of their bicycles.
What Are the Best Ways To Store a Bike?
Most people use their bikes during the spring and summer, but cycling becomes much more challenging as the weather gets colder.
Winter is when bikes are left in storage for months at a time, so how you store your bike during the cold season plays a vital role in your bike’s overall quality.
Here are a few effective ways you can store your bike during the offseason:
Remove Your Accessories
When storing your bike, you don’t have to leave all your accessories. It’s better to remove water bottles, electronic devices and cycle computers before putting your bike away.
Not only will removing the accessories protect them from damage, but it will also make it easier to store your bicycle.
Give Your Bike a Good Cleaning
Cleaning your bike regularly is an integral part of being a cyclist. However, giving your bicycle a thorough cleaning before putting it away for the off-season is vital to protect it from costly damages.
Try to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated on the frame, wheels, or rims of your bike.
Find a Suitable Storage Location
Finding the right storage location is crucial to protect your bicycle from harm. However, many people have limited storage space on their property, so you might have to get creative.
Unfortunately, storing a bike in a condo or an apartment is nearly impossible. Therefore, outside may be your only option.
If you can store your bike inside, go this route as it protects your bike from harsh weather conditions and pesky thieves. Above, we mention that hanging your bike horizontally is the best way to keep it from incurring any damages. You can use wall-mounted hooks to store your bike by its frame, but you’ll need to install wall studs.
Depending on your property, you can opt for ceiling-mounted hooks that will free up more floor space. However, you’ll have to install the mount onto the ceiling which can be challenging.
Another viable option is to get wheel stands. These are excellent tools for people with limited storage space. You can hold your bike in place without the need for installing wall mounts or lifting your bicycle.
Related read: How to Lubricate Bike Wheel Bearings
Conclusion
Does Hanging a Bike by the Wheel Damage It? While storing your bike isn’t always easy, there are several options to try.
Hanging your bike by the wheel may seem like a good option, but it can cause severe damage to your bike over time. You’re far better off hanging it horizontally or opting for a wheel stand.
