How to Make a Bike Rack

This article outlines how to build a basic bike rack from wood.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Galvanized screws
• Screw driver
• Saw
• Measuring tape
• Pencil

1. First you need decide ho many bikes the rack needs to accommodate. In the image you will see 1 ft slots per bike. The number of bikes defines the length of the rack.
   
   Each slot is supported by a triangle of equal 3ft sides. Count how many supporting triangles you will need.
   
   We have added supporting beams on each side of the tire. These should be 2ft long. Count 2 per bike.
   
   Once you know how much lumber you need calculate how it will fit a 10ft length, because most lumber is sold in ten foot lengths.
   
   Use pressure treated 2"/4".

2. Once you have you wood cut into pieces your first task is to build the supporting triangles. The corners form equal 60 degree angles, s you need to angle the ends of the pieces of wood. This is easy with a circular saw that allows you to lock the blade in an angle. There are some plastic frames that give you the right angle in stores as well.
   
   Screw the pieces together.

3. Attach triangular supports to cross beams on each side at 1ft intervals. This should form a fairly ridged structure.

4. Add the bike wheel supports in the center of each slot with enough space in between to fit your bike tire.
   
   Note that mountain bikes have much wider wheels than street bikes.