Protecting bike from the elements

[Michael P]

Stupid question, but what level of cover is sufficient for keeping a bike outside? Is the necessity just keeping the rain off, and therefore a lean-to open on one or two sides sufficient, or does it need to be in a fairly "sealed" enclosure (garage, shed, etc.)? I don't need to worry about security, luckily (I'm in a remote location).

I did build a nice shed, but new to bikes and didn't factor in how much effort is required to move a bike from a standstill on large slate chippings. I'm wondering if I can just build a larger lean-to and keep the shed for other stuff, or if I need to incur extra cost and get the driveway around the shed tarmacked.

Thanks in advance!

[Mr Fro]

Had you thought about paving slabs. Have a look on gumtree & freecycle - people often give them away if you pick them up.

[Mississippi Bullfrog]

If security isn’t an issue then a lean to can have the advantage of allowing more airflow which helps keeps corrosion at bay. I keep mine in a locked garage and in cold weather they both get damp due to condensation.

[Mr Fro]

If security isn’t an issue then a lean to can have the advantage of allowing more airflow which helps keeps corrosion at bay. I keep mine in a locked garage and in cold weather they both get damp due to condensation.

 

I have a dehumidifier in mine for this very reason!

[Throttled]

A lean-to is perfect. Protect the bike from the worst of the weather whilst letting it dry out quickly if wet. I use cheap covers that flap about because they do not trap moisture like the very waterproof covers with elasticated edges.

[Michael P]

Thanks all - think I’ll go with the lean-to then