Not everyone has a garage or room for a bike shed. With the right setup you can store a bike outside all year and keep it dry, secure and rust-free. Here is how.

1. Keep the weather off it

Rain and damp are what age a bike fastest, causing seized cables, rusted chains and corroded contacts on e-bikes. A waterproof, seam-sealed bike cover is the cheapest way to prevent it.

2. Get it off the ground

A wall hook, ground anchor or simple stand keeps the tyres out of puddles and makes locking easier.

3. Lock it to something fixed

Use a ground anchor or sturdy railing with a quality D-lock. Covers with lock-through slots, such as the URBAN, Longtail and Cargo, let you secure the cover and bike together.

4. Pick a sheltered spot

Against a wall, under an eave or a balcony. Anywhere that cuts wind-driven rain helps the cover and the bike.

5. Cover it properly

Choose a cover sized to your bike so it does not flap, tighten the toggles, and let it dry before long storage.

Storing a bike outside: common questions

Is it OK to store a bike outside?

Yes, as long as you keep the weather off it. A waterproof cover, a spot off the ground and a secure lock will keep a bike in good condition outdoors all year.

How do I stop my bike rusting outside?

Keep rain and damp off it. A waterproof cover over a dry bike is the simplest way to prevent rusted chains, seized cables and corroded e-bike contacts.