Guardian Newspaper Reviews Asgard

Featured in: No room for your bike? Here are 13 clever, space-saving storage ideas for indoors and out
Author: Laura Laker

No room for your bike? Here are 13 clever, space-saving storage ideas for indoors and out

I recently moved house and have a problem many cyclists face: where does the bike go? Research shows that about 5.5 million people in the UK would cycle more if they had space to store a bike at home; only 23% of people living in flats – and 58% who live in detached houses – have an accessible place for one.

However, there are many bike storage solutions, from basic floor anchors for a tiny outdoor space to fancy high-security sheds, and even secure parking provided by local authorities. One cycle storage entrepreneur won £100,000 on Dragons’ Den for his SpaceRail. Here are some of the best options I’ve come across, for inside the home, and out.

Outdoors

For bikes parked outdoors, if security is one of your requirements (which it probably should be, even in a back garden), look for products that are Sold Secure rated: this means they are rigorously tested and certified to resist theft.

Also, a word of warning if you’re thinking of installing a shed: metal ones heat up in the sun, so don’t allow any part of the bike that could melt (handlebars or tyres) to touch metal in full summer sun. Strategically place cloths between the two, or install insulation.

For front or rear gardens - The Fortress

If you’re lucky enough to have a front or rear garden, Asgard sheds are safe, good-looking and sturdy. Prices start at £649 for a two-bike shed. I tested the mammoth Annexe Plus E (for e-bike charging) in my front garden, which is Secured by Design (police) approved, and rated by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) for security, which means it was tested using a plethora of break-in tools.

The Plus E stores three to four bikes (essential: check your bike sizes first), with optional plug sockets for charging, shelves and hooks for gear. For an additional fee, Asgard’s staff will come and build it for you. I wasn’t sure I’d want to leave my expensive bikes in the front garden, but found the shed reassuringly safe, with its five-point locking double doors, including two deadbolts.

The design details are great, with ventilation to prevent damp buildup, and it’s big enough to obscure my neighbours’ overflowing bins. It also weighs 176kg (27st 10lb), so it isn’t going anywhere easily. I’m still learning not to make too much noise opening and closing it.

If you are interested in reading the article in full, it can be found here.