Bike Rack Buying Guide
Whether you need cycle parking for a school, business, event, or your own garage, Bison Products manufactures a complete range of UK-made bike racks to suit every application. This guide helps you choose the right rack for your needs.
Types of Bike Rack
Floor-Mounted Bike Racks
Permanently bolted to the ground. The most secure option for long-term public or commercial use. Available in single-tier and dual-height configurations.
Wall-Mounted Bike Racks
Mount to walls to save floor space. Ideal for garages, sheds, bike stores, and narrow spaces where floor-mounted racks won't fit.
Event & Portable Bike Racks (Transition Range)
Our unique Transition Bike Racks unfold and set up in under a minute with no tools. Designed specifically for events, markets, pop-ups, and temporary cycle parking.
Commercial Bike Storage
Heavy-duty racks built for high-traffic locations — offices, shopping centres, transport hubs, and council cycle infrastructure. Semi-vertical and Sheffield-style options available.
Choosing the Right Capacity
- Home/garage: 1–3 bikes — wall hooks or a compact toast rack
- Small business/café: 2–5 bikes — toast rack or small dual-height
- School/office: 10–30 bikes — multiple dual-height or semi-vertical racks
- Event/festival: 50+ bikes — multiple Transition racks (easily scaled)
Key Considerations
- Disc brake compatibility — Some traditional racks can damage disc brake rotors. Our disc-brake-compatible racks avoid this issue.
- Tyre width — Check the maximum tyre width the rack accepts. Standard road bikes (23–32mm) fit all racks; wider MTB or e-bike tyres may need specific models.
- Security — Floor-mounted and wall-mounted racks allow D-lock attachment. Event racks are designed for temporary supervised parking.
- Surface type — Floor racks need bolt-down to concrete or tarmac. Wall racks need a solid wall. Transition racks are free-standing on any flat surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a toast rack and a Sheffield stand?
A toast rack has parallel slots that hold bikes by the front wheel. A Sheffield stand is an inverted U-shape that supports the bike frame. Sheffield stands are more secure (frame locking) but take more space per bike. Toast racks are more space-efficient.
Can I use outdoor bike racks for e-bikes?
Yes, provided the tyre width fits the rack slots. E-bikes are heavier, so floor-mounted or wall-mounted racks with sturdy construction are recommended over lightweight portable options.
Do you deliver bike racks to Scotland and Wales?
Yes. Free delivery to mainland England. Scotland and Wales deliveries are available — see our shipping policy for details.
Ready to Choose?
Browse our full bike rack range → or contact our team for volume quotes and bespoke requirements.