Having a truck bed doesn’t mean you can’t store a bike or two. A bike rack for your truck bed is a great way to keep your bikes safe, secure, and out of the way when you need the space. Making your own bike rack is relatively easy, and with the right materials, you can have a custom-made rack that will fit into any size truck bed in no time.
The first step in making your own bike rack is to gather all of the necessary supplies. You will need two 4-foot sections of 1/2-inch conduit pipe, four 3-foot sections of 3/4-inch pipe, four L-brackets, four u-bolts, 16 nuts and bolts of the appropriate size for your pipes and brackets, and two pieces of 2×4 lumber (or similar). Once everything is gathered together it’s time to begin construction.
Start by cutting the conduit pipe into four equal pieces. These will be used as supports for the main frame.
Next, take one piece of 2×4 lumber and lay it across two sawhorses (or similar). On top of this base layer two more pieces of conduit so that they overlap in the middle. Secure these layers with nuts and bolts.
Making The Frame:
Now take one piece of 3/4 inch pipe and attach it to either end of the conduit frame using L brackets. Make sure they are securely fastened using nuts and bolts.
Next add one more piece of 3/4 inch pipe to each end making an X shape. Secure these joints with u-bolts.
Making The Base:
Now it’s time to make the base for your bike rack. Take one piece of 2×4 lumber and cut it into four equal pieces.
These will be used as supports for the main frame. Attach these pieces to each corner of the X frame using L brackets, making sure they are securely fastened with nuts and bolts.
Finishing Touches:
Lastly add any additional features you would like such as straps or padding for extra protection against scratches or bumps while transporting your bikes on this new homemade bike rack.
Conclusion:
Creating a custom bike rack for your truck bed doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive; just follow these simple steps to make a secure bike rack that’s perfect for any size truck bed! With just a few supplies from your local hardware store and some basic tools you can make a reliable bike rack that will last for years.
