Where to keep it? New answers for bike owners

Sunset, Jan, 1992 by Bill Crosby

YOU GOT THE BIKE you wanted for Christmas; now where are you going to put it? Getting that expensive new toy off the floor and out of the way calls for a whole new series of choices.

Here we show you the range of bike storage racks available, including what is still the favorite of many of the enthusiasts we spoke with--the simple screw-in hook. Each of the others offers advantages that may accommodate your particular situation, such as limited space or an inability to attach a bracket permanently to a wall (three of the racks are freestanding).

All either come preassembled or are easy to put together with simple tools. Most have finishes durable enough to withstand conditions outdoors, if that's where you want to store your bike.

Prices we quote are approximations based on the manufacturer's suggested retail. We've seen many of these racks selling for less-and more--in sporting goods stores, discount stores and warehouses, home centers, and specially catalogs.

The coated hook is ubiquitous. If you have trouble finding the others, call the manufacturers direct and ask for customer service. For the double-decker rack, call IMS Enterprises at (800) 346-7332. For the freestanding sports center, call Hirsh Company at (800) 872-3279. For the other three racks, write to Racor, Inc., 802 Officers Row, Vancouver, Wash. 98661, or call (206) 6958599.