This project was built and designed by Jon Peters from Longview Woodworking. It’s a compact, wall-mounted bike hanger that offers a clean and effective way to store a heavy electric mountain bike (EMTB) without the need for lifting.
Designed with a friction-fit mechanism and a locking dowel pin, the rack provides a secure hold while keeping the bike just inches from the wall. It’s a smart solution for small garages, workshops, or anyone needing a safe, low-profile way to hang a bulky bike.
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A Clean Storage Option for Heavy Bikes
Electric mountain bikes are heavier and bulkier than traditional bikes, often weighing 50 pounds or more. Jon’s design addresses this by allowing the bike to be rolled directly into place, removing the need to lift and maneuver a heavy frame.
This hanger is specifically sized to fit his 56-pound pedal-assist mountain bike, but the design can be easily adapted to other models. The setup uses tire friction to hold the bike upright, reinforced by a hardwood dowel that locks the wheel in place.
Planning the Design and Choosing Materials
Jon begins by selecting hardwood for the support pieces, which are cut and shaped to match the bike’s front tire width. The center block is made slightly smaller than the diameter of the tire, creating a friction fit that doesn’t compress the wheel too tightly.
Two outer side supports are added to house the dowel pin and provide lateral stability. Each piece is eased at the edges using a hand plane or a round-over bit, preventing sharp contact points with the tire and increasing the hanger’s longevity.
Cutting and Shaping the Parts
Measurements are taken from the actual tire to determine how wide the center slot needs to be. The goal is a snug fit that holds the bike without making it hard to slide in or out.
All contact surfaces are smoothed out to prevent wear on the bike. The result is a well-shaped opening that guides the tire into place and supports it from both sides.
Assembly and Mounting Steps
The side supports are attached to the central block using screws, keeping all parts flush and square. Jon then drills a horizontal hole through the side pieces to insert the dowel pin. This pin sits behind the tire once it’s in place, acting as a simple but strong safety stop.
To mount the rack, Jon positions the hanger at the correct height on the wall. He does this by holding the bike in place and measuring from the wall to the base of the tire, ensuring the bike will sit level and not sag when installed.
Once the height is marked, the hanger is screwed into wall studs for maximum support. Leveling is double-checked before tightening everything down.
Using the Bike Rack
With the hanger installed, the bike can be rolled in so the front tire slots into the center groove. The friction fit holds the weight, and the dowel pin locks the wheel in place. There’s no need for straps, hooks, or secondary supports.
The design ensures the bike leans slightly back, using gravity to settle it into a safe position. Even if the tire is partially deflated, the bike won’t fall forward or slide out unexpectedly.
Key Benefits of This Design
This bike rack offers several advantages for woodworkers and cyclists alike:
- No lifting required – The bike rolls in and out easily.
- Compact footprint – The rack keeps the bike just inches from the wall.
- Friction and pin combo – This dual method holds the bike securely.
- Durable construction – Hardwood components stand up to wear and weight.
- Easy to build – The design uses basic cuts and tools most woodworkers already own.
Tested for Safety and Durability
Jon tested the rack with a deflated tire to see how it would perform under less-than-ideal conditions. Even with low pressure, the bike held securely, leaning gently into the pin without shifting.
This test demonstrates how reliable the design is, even if the bike is stored long-term or after outdoor use. It’s especially helpful for EMTBs, which often weigh more and take up more space than traditional bicycles.
Customizing for Your Bike and Shop
While Jon’s version fits his specific bike, the same principles apply to any model. Adjusting the center slot width, pin height, and hanger size will allow this to work with gravel bikes, road bikes, or other e-bikes.
The wall bracket can be made wider, taller, or installed in multiples for households with more than one bike. It’s a simple concept that scales easily and stays efficient no matter the variation.
A Woodworking Solution to a Storage Problem
This project shows how woodworking skills can solve everyday challenges with clean, efficient designs. By using just a few pieces of hardwood and thoughtful measurements, Jon has created a dependable solution for storing a heavy electric bike.
The rack looks sharp, takes up minimal space, and performs exactly as intended. It’s a great example of how form and function can go hand in hand, especially for utility-based builds.
Support Jon by visiting his website: https://jonpeters.com/collections/plans/.