How to Build the Ultimate DIY Longboard Bike Rack for Your Garage: Space-Saving Storage Solution (That Won’t Make You Cry When Looking for Your Gear!)
Are you constantly performing an awkward dance around longboards and bikes scattered across your garage floor? A messy garage doesn’t just make finding your gear difficult—it can actually damage your rides. Creating a DIY longboard bike rack is affordable, customizable, and will make grabbing your gear much easier!
Why You Need a Dedicated Storage Solution
Building a proper storage rack isn’t just about organizing your garage. A well-designed DIY longboard bike rack keeps your equipment from getting damaged.
Wall-mounted racks free up valuable floor space. You’ll be able to see all your gear displayed properly.
Easy access means you’ll use your equipment more often. Plus, your boards stay in good shape instead of getting warped under piles of other items.
Materials Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to grab from the hardware store:
- 2×4 lumber (about 3-4 eight-footers)
- 3/4-inch plywood sheet for backing or shelving
- Wood screws (2-inch and 1.5-inch)
- Heavy-duty wall anchors
- Large hooks or specialized bike hangers
- Foam pipe insulation for cushioning
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Paint or wood stain (optional)
- Clear polyurethane coating (optional)
Tools Required
These tools will help you complete the project successfully:
- Drill with various bits
- Circular saw or miter saw
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Pencil
- Stud finder
- Screwdriver
- Safety glasses
- Work gloves
- Clamps
Measuring and Planning Your Garage Space
Proper planning ensures your rack fits perfectly in your garage:
Height considerations: Keep longboards between 3-5 feet from the floor for easy access without stretching or climbing.
Width planning: Allow about 20 inches of space for each bike and 10 inches for each longboard.
Depth requirements: Bikes need 12-24 inches of depth clearance, while longboards only need 2-3 inches. Consider traffic flow in your garage.
Stud location: Find and mark wall studs (typically 16 or 24 inches apart) for secure mounting.
Simple Wall-Mounted Longboard Rack Design
Create an efficient longboard storage system with these steps:
Start with two horizontal 2×4 supports mounted to the wall studs. Then attach vertical dividers about 8-10 inches apart to keep your boards separated.
Cut the top of each divider at a 15-20 degree angle. This creates a secure cradle that uses gravity to hold boards firmly without complicated systems.
Vertical Bike Storage Options
Get those bikes off the floor with these effective solutions:
Hook system: Install sturdy hooks into wall studs for hanging bikes by their wheels. Rubber-coated hooks prevent rim scratches.
Rail system: A horizontal rail with adjustable hooks allows for flexible storage arrangements, perfect for growing collections.
Offset mounts: These hangers let bikes hang perpendicular to the wall. By alternating handlebar directions, you can fit bikes closer together.
Creating an Integrated Storage Unit
Combine bike and longboard storage in one space-saving unit:
Design a frame that extends from floor to about 6-7 feet high. Use the lower section (below 4 feet) for angled longboard slots, and dedicate the upper area to bike hooks.
This setup keeps frequently used equipment at an accessible height while maximizing wall space. The shared frame uses less building material and creates a cleaner look.
Add a small shelf between sections for accessories like helmets, pads, tools, and pumps to create a complete riding gear center.
Step-by-Step Building Instructions
Follow these instructions to build your rack:
1. Create the frame: Cut two vertical 2×4s to your desired height (6-7 feet works well). Cut horizontal supports based on how many bikes and boards you’re storing.
2. Assemble the frame: Connect the horizontal pieces to the vertical supports using 2-inch screws and wood glue. Position supports at top, bottom, and middle for stability.
3. Create longboard slots: Cut several 2×4 pieces about 6-8 inches long for dividers. Cut one end of each at a 15-20 degree angle to create cradles. Space these evenly along the bottom support, about 8-10 inches apart.
4. Add bike hooks: Install hooks on the upper portion, giving each bike adequate space. Stagger them if needed to accommodate handlebars.
5. Mount to wall: With help, position the rack against the wall, check it with a level, mark stud locations, drill pilot holes, and secure to the wall with 3-inch screws.
Adding Protective Padding
Protect your equipment from scratches and damage:
Cut foam pipe insulation to line the angled longboard resting spots. This prevents edge damage and scratches. Secure with adhesive or small staples.
Wrap bike hooks with foam pipe insulation or rubber tubing to protect wheel rims.
Add felt or foam anywhere equipment touches wood. These protective touches prevent mysterious scratches that often appear during storage.
Weatherproofing Your Rack
Garages can experience temperature and humidity fluctuations. Protect your creation:
Sand all surfaces smooth, starting with 120-grit and finishing with 220-grit sandpaper to prevent splinters.
Apply primer designed for garage use, followed by at least two coats of exterior-grade paint or stain.
Finish with clear polyurethane for extra protection against humidity and spills.
Pay special attention to sealing end grain and joints, as these areas are most vulnerable to moisture damage.
Adding Storage for Accessories
Enhance your rack with these practical additions:
Helmet shelf: Add a simple shelf above the longboard section to keep helmets visible and ventilated.
Hook rail: Mount a small rail with hooks below the shelf for hanging gloves, pads, or backpacks.
Tool caddy: Attach a container for skate tools and bike multi-tools so they’re always within reach.
Storage baskets: Add wire or fabric baskets to contain smaller items that might otherwise get scattered.
Finishing Touches
Make your rack look professional with these final steps:
Choose paint colors that complement your garage or match your gear. Bold colors make a statement, while subtle tones blend in.
Consider adding a small whiteboard for maintenance notes or ride tracking.
Label individual sections if multiple family members use the rack to prevent confusion.
Add decorative wood trim to exposed plywood edges for a polished look.
Installation Safety Considerations
Ensure your rack remains secure for years to come:
Always mount into solid wall studs. Drywall anchors alone aren’t reliable enough for heavy equipment.
Add diagonal bracing from the bottom of the rack to the wall for racks supporting multiple bikes, especially heavier models.
Install at a height that works for everyone who will use it to avoid stretching or stepping on stools.
Check weight ratings for all hardware and never exceed them. Build in a safety buffer for peace of mind.
Maintaining Your DIY Rack
Keep your rack in excellent condition:
Perform a quarterly check to tighten any loose screws. Seasonal temperature changes can cause wood and metal to expand and contract.
Inspect for signs of wear or stress, especially at contact points where gear rests.
Replace foam padding when it becomes compressed or worn.
Touch up paint or finish annually, especially in humid environments, to extend your rack’s lifespan.
DIY vs. Store-Bought Solutions
Building your own rack offers significant advantages:
A complete DIY combined longboard and bike rack typically costs about $50-100 in materials, depending on the features you include.
Store-bought solutions start around $150-300 for basic models that often fit fewer items and aren’t customized to your space. Premium options can cost over $500.
Your DIY rack gives you complete customization freedom, allowing you to design exactly what you need for your specific equipment and space.
While tool investments should be considered if you don’t already have them, they’ll serve you well in future projects too.
Have you built a storage solution for your outdoor gear? Share your DIY longboard bike rack designs and tips in the comments below!
