A bike rack for a pickup truck is a convenient and cost effective way to transport bikes. It is also very easy to make one yourself. With a few simple tools and materials, you can make a sturdy bike rack that will last for years.
Materials Needed:
– 2x4s
– Plywood
– Nails or screws
– Paint
– Drill
– Saw
– Tape measure
Step 1: Measure the Bed of the Truck The first step is to measure the length and width of your truck bed. This will be used to determine the size of the bike rack that needs to be built. Be sure to measure twice, as accuracy is key when building a bike rack.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Using the measurements taken in step one, cut two pieces of 2x4s into four pieces that are equal in length. Then, cut two more pieces of 2x4s into four pieces that are equal in length but slightly shorter than the first set. These will act as support beams for the bike rack. Cut two more pieces of 2x4s into four pieces that are equal in length but slightly shorter than the first set.
These will act as support beams for the bike rack. From there, cut two more pieces of plywood into four pieces that are equal in size to each other and slightly larger than the bed of your truck. These will form the base of your bike rack. Finally, cut two more pieces of plywood that are slightly narrower than your truck bed and equal in size to each other. These will act as side panels for your bike rack.
Step 3: Assemble Once all your materials have been cut, it’s time to assemble them into a functioning bike rack! Start by nailing or screwing together all four pieces of 2x4s so they form a rectangle shape with no gaps between them (this will be the frame). Then, attach one side panel piece on each side with nails or screws so it lines up flush with the frame (this will give your rack additional stability).
Next, attach both pieces of plywood forming your base onto either end of this frame/panel assembly so it lines up flush as well (this should now resemble an open box). Finally, attach both remaining side panels onto either end so they line up flush with each other and complete your box shape (your bike rack is now done! ).
Step 4: Paint After you’ve assembled your bike rack, you may want to paint it for added weather resistance and aesthetic appeal if you choose! Simply use a brush or roller and paint according to manufacturer’s instructions and let dry completely before using it on your truck bed.
Conclusion: Making a bike rack for a pickup truck is not difficult if you have some basic tools and materials on hand such as 2x4s, plywood, nails/screws, paint and drill/saw/tape measure. Simply measure out what you need from step one before cutting all materials in step two; then assemble everything together according to steps three and four before adding any optional paint in step five for added weather resistance/aesthetic appeal! With these steps followed properly; you should now have an efficient DIY pickup truck bike rack ready for use!
