Is a metal building a good option for bike sheds? If yes, what are the best sizes? Are there any other features you could add to make it more useful? If any of these questions are crossing through your mind, you are in the right place. Below, we have summarized focal points of how sheds can be used as a diverse unit. Now, off we go.
Features That You Can Add to Bike Sheds
Some Vertical Rakes & Shelves
A vertical rake won’t just make your shed appear higher but also help store side boxes, carbon parts, or bag supports. Being installed vertically, shelves can minimize the use of floor space, giving you extra space to carry out repair and maintenance work.
Metal building solutions are excellent and versatile alternatives to traditional wooden sheds and have multiple benefits. Some of them are ease of maintenance, sturdy build, pest & fire-resistant, durable, and long-lasting.
Add Lighting
You can’t work without a proper lighting. Therefore, you can either install electricity in your shed or get a battery-operated light. You can get LEDs instead of incandescent bulbs to keep your energy bills in check. For any energy saving designs, you have a metal building solution.
Peg Board or Magnetic Board
A peg board is an excellent choice for keeping tools on display. You can hang screwdrivers, fasteners, wrench sets, T bar, speed brace, wire lock pliers, or bearing pullers as in the display. It will look fantastic and will be easy to access. You can also get a magnetic board installed on one of the walls. It will be helpful to stick any metallic tools to it.
Consider Rugs
If you live in relatively colder weather, you can place the rug on the concrete or asphalt surface to protect your tires from cold weather. A rubber rug can help isolate bike tires from the ground. It will help safeguard motorcycle shed floors from liquid spillover such as oil or Mobil.
You can keep your bike in a steel shed for a month without using it. If you want to store it for longer, a little maintenance is a must. You can add winter-grade oil and add fuel stabilizer. It will be safe throughout the coldest winter months.
Install Hooks & Bins
Installing hooks will give you a place to hang objects without occupying floor space. There are plenty of items that you can hang in bike sheds. Some of them are garden racks, shovels, hoses, or cables. For storing small items, you can get bins and label them as per items.
Some Size Ideas for Motorcycle Sheds
On average, a motorcycle’s dimension is 8 x 3 x 5 (length x width x height in ft.). Though there are many bike shed sizes, for parking one bike, you can select a steel shed that is at least 6 inches more than the dimension of the bike. Here are some more examples; however, the size of the shed will vary with the total number of bikes and their model.
| No. of Motorcycle to Be Parked | Dimension of Bike Shed
(length in ft. x width in ft.) |
| One | 8 x 8 |
| One Bike with room to store gears | 12 x 10 |
| Two | 10 x 10 |
| Two Bike with room to store gears | 20 x 12 |
All the features mentioned above can be installed according to your needs. Note that you will need to file for a permit for structures larger than 200 sq. ft. or the one with human occupants. The permit fee starts from $50 and above, depending on the size and complexity of the structure.
Still not sure what size will fit your lot? That’s okay. You can use a 3D design tool to draw your own bike shed, which most metal builders offer. There is also an option to visualize it on your property. Now, let’s see some more tips for designing your motorcycle sheds. Have a look.
Tips For Designing Bike Sheds
Choosing Location on Your Lot
Most people would like to install their shed away from the main entrance or front yard. Not only does it help with sheltering, but it also keeps your beloved bikes out of sight of prying eyes. Your main building acts as a shield to the metal shed during heavy storms. If you choose to install a shed away from your main home, ensure the place you select has less wind drift.
Easy To Access
Having a steel shed installed isn’t the only thing that matters. You must be able to park and take out your bikes easily. If the area is cramped, it may cause a dent or scratch on your motorcycle. However, a metal shed is still a better option than leaving your bike out at the mercy of nature. It helps prolong the life of your vehicle.
Choosing Size
At least your shed must be large enough to accommodate your bike easily. However, you can go for a larger option and store gears, spare parts, and repair tools in it. A one-car garage will be the best fit if you have two or more bikes. Not only does it shelter your motorcycles, but it also gives you extra storage space.
Avoid Windows
For small sheds, it is best to avoid windows. You can instead go for vents. It will maintain air circulation and keep direct, harsh sunlight away. If you are planning to spend some time in your shed on weekends, go boldly for insulation.
Choosing Foundation
Motorcycles can weigh around 350 to 750 pounds. Hence, you can select asphalt or concrete slab as a foundation. Bike sheds must be away from any waterlogging areas as they can damage tires and cause rusting. If you want bike sheds cum office area, you can texture concrete and stain it to give a wood-floor look to it.
Now That We Have Reached the End
We can conclude that you can have multi-purpose use of motorcycle sheds. You can add innovative features that fit the bill. Further, the structural design of your metal shed plays a crucial role in defining the purpose. You can place your shed in your backyard. In that way, you don’t have to worry about your shed blocking your view or hindering your entrance.
Don’t forget to apply for a permit to get the best size metal shed for your bike. It will ensure that the chosen design complies with the local rules and your building will last for a long.