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Take a weekend, clear out a corner in the cellar or garage and fulfil your dream of a tinkerer's paradise. We started the self-experiment and completely transformed a small garage in just a few days. In this article, you will find the most important tips for equipping and equipping your own DIY corner as well as the result of our conversion project, which should serve as inspiration and a guide for you.
The project of our own bicycle workshop
The initial situation was more than suboptimal: there was no space, no well thought-out system and no organisation whatsoever. Tools were scattered wildly on an unstable desk, while the bicycles literally blocked the space and made any movement difficult. This is how our workshop looked at the start of the remodelling work. It was difficult to work on the floor or outside the door. A radical change was urgently needed. The chaotic workshop was to be transformed into a true hobbyist's paradise. If this scene sounds familiar to you, you should definitely take a closer look at the following paragraphs. There is potential for a small DIY corner in almost every basement. Tackle the challenge and finally realise your "hobby workshop" project - we'll show you how.
The perfect workstation: the workbench
The life of a screwdriver takes place between the workbench and the tool wall. A few things should be taken into account so that you can work ergonomically and effectively. The Workbench is the centrepiece and hub of the workplace. It is used for screwing, hammering and tinkering. It should therefore be stable above all else. There are hundreds of different models of varying quality on the market. A robust work surface, for example made of solid beech, which is usually between three and five centimetres thick, and a sturdy frame made of sheet steel or wood are particularly important. Tools that cannot be stored on the wall can be kept in drawers. Of course, you can also use an old desk or similar as a work surface for the time being. However, if you want to do some serious screwdriving, you will soon realise that the working height is too low in most cases and the table legs are too wobbly. If you want a completely customised solution, you can simply build your own wooden workbench. The right height, work surface size and number of drawers or shelves can then be customised to suit your personal requirements. Even non-professionals can build it themselves in just a few hours.
Stable: The robust sheet steel construction with solid beech worktop. You could file an elephant's nails on it. A professional-quality workbench lasts forever, but it comes at a price. The 1.5 metre wide model from Garant with two compartments costs around 620 euros at Werkzeug Hoffmann.
Mobile: Although the foldable Pedros workbench does not offer the same stability, it can be stowed away in a corner after use to save space. This makes it ideal for limited space or as a mobile work surface. With a height of 82 centimetres, it also allows you to work comfortably without back pain. Price: 215 euros >> e.g. at Tradeinn available.
Customised: You can find pressure-treated wood for the frame, the worktop and shelf as well as for the lock screws and the matching drill bit in DIY stores for around 200 euros. To make assembly easier, you will also need two screw clamps, an angle iron and the help of a good friend. Suitable instructions can be found on de.wikihow.com under the keyword "workbench".
Second-hand purchase: Used workbenches from company liquidations are always on offer on the Internet. With a bit of luck, you have the chance to pick up a real bargain here. Even if the worktops often look worn, with a little refurbishment you can make your favourite almost as good as new. Models with a solid beech top (approx. 40 millimetres thick) and a sheet steel substructure are particularly durable. On platforms such as www.dhd24com or www.surplex.com you can find usable models in various designs, starting at around 70 euros. However, there are additional costs for dismantling and transport, as the workbenches usually weigh over 100 kilos.
Customised workbench
Which do you prefer: frozen food or home-cooked food? Fast food often doesn't meet our expectations of perfect flavour. The situation is similar with workbenches. Finding a model with the ideal dimensions for your own four walls is often difficult in the shop. That's why we grabbed a drill and built a customised workbench ourselves. This is easier than we thought. The wood is cut to the millimetre at the DIY store. Make sure you buy wood that is as dry as possible so that it does not warp after assembly. At home, the beams simply need to be aligned correctly with the angle iron and fixed in place with screw clamps before drilling. Worktops from a thickness of around four centimetres can be fixed from below. If the worktop is placed on the frame from above, the screws can be countersunk flush into the worktop using a countersink drill. The complete instructions with detailed work steps can be found on de.wikihow.com under the keyword "workbench".
Material list
- 1 worktop 150 x 70 x 3 cm (e.g. prefabricated worktop, door with solid core)
- 1 base plate 123 x 40 x 2.5 cm (e.g. plywood or OSB board)
- 4 legs 9 x 9 x 85 cm (e.g. pressure-impregnated square timber)
- 4 cross struts 4.5 x 9 x 61 cm
- 2 longitudinal struts 4.5 x 9 x 150 cm
- 1 110 x 250 mm wood drill bit with centre point
- 12 10 mm carriage bolts with washers and nuts
- 20 6 x 80 mm Spax for worktop and base plate
- 2 screw clamps
- 1 angle iron
The tool wall
You don't need a lot of time or money to create a customised tool wall. The best options are OSB installation panels or Chipboard from the DIY store for the rear wall. These are available from around ten euros per square metre. However, make sure that they are thick enough - we recommend at least 25 millimetres - so that the screws can be countersunk deep enough. You can save on expensive perforated wall systems. A panel measuring 150 x 70 centimetres offers enough space for a comprehensive range of basic equipment. The individual tools are best attached to the wall with Spax screws in 35 and 50 millimetre sizes (e.g. for thick objects such as hammers or adhesive tape). The panel can be securely fixed to the wall with four hexagon head screws 6 to 8 millimetres thick and one washer each. In slightly damp cellars, it is advisable to mount the tool wall at some distance from the wall to prevent mould from forming on the back. In terms of cost, the DIY tool wall is unbeatable. We paid less than 30 euros.
Get to work: the right tools
You often have to dig deep into your pockets for high-quality tools. However, a small set of basic equipment is enough to get you started. Budget around 400 euros to equip a simple workshop. Around 100 euros of this is already spent on a Torque spanner, which even occasional screwdrivers should not do without, and a further 100 euros for a Mounting stand. An inexpensive screwdriver set can form a solid basis with the most important bike tools. However, these toolboxes often also contain parts that you do not need or are of inferior quality, such as square crank pullers or tyre levers. A recommended source of supply is the mail order company Rose, which also offers all special tools individually. However, general tools such as rubber mallets or screwdrivers are best purchased from a DIY store. Always look for good quality here too. If you want to work precisely, there is no getting around precision scales, spoke tension testers and a centring stand. Tools for working on the frame, fork and bearings will quickly cost you around 2000 euros. However, this work should only be carried out by very experienced mechanics.
Three recommended tool starter sets
Complete package
With this first-class professional equipment, you are guaranteed to attract the admiration of your fellow road cyclists and can take over the maintenance of all bikes from now on. Park Tool is known for its high-quality, shop-quality tools. The practical case contains a complete set of basic equipment for the most common repairs. The set also contains tools that are particularly useful for assembling bikes yourself. Fitting headsets and fork crowns, shortening steerer tubes, aligning derailleur hangers or cutting threads for braze-on parts - these expensive special tools justify the price of 1299 euros for the PK-66.
Please pack: Toolbox for tidiness
What use is the best equipment if the tools are hanging on the wall at home during your cycling holiday? You can buy sturdy toolboxes with a spacious main compartment, a removable carrier and organisers for small parts from DIY stores for around 30 euros. We opted for the Basic tool box from Stanley, which has a high-quality finish and even offers space for spare hoses and other accessories. It can also be locked with a cylinder lock if required.
Working with an assembly stand
A kickstand is essential for getting your bike to the right working height. There are a few important aspects to bear in mind. The bike is usually upside down on the ground while you kneel next to it and try to fix a fault without dislocating yourself. This is probably how most of us started our screwdriving careers. But the only really effective way to screw things together is with an assembly stand. This allows the wheels to rotate freely, for example to adjust the gears or brakes, or to carry out maintenance work on the bottom bracket without unnecessarily straining the spinal discs. The selection of models is large, as is the price range. Above all, a good kickstand should stand securely, fold out sufficiently high and be foldable to save space. The clamp should also be easy to operate with one hand. Below you will find a small selection of recommended models.
The editors' favourites
Feedback Sports Pro Elite
- Price: 279 Euro >> available here
- Folding dimensions: 114 x 21 x 17 cm / weight 5.5 kg
- Working height: 106-177 cm / clamping width 20-70 mm
- Stability: 8/10
- Handling: 10/10
The precisely processed feedback is characterised by its easy handling when folding and clamping. The quick-release mechanism is particularly practical. A plus point: the clamping jaws can be closed effortlessly and quickly, but are quite firm. The star-shaped and relatively short legs can be extended in a few simple steps and hold even heavy bikes securely at a considerable working height. The Feedback Pro Elite has been a loyal companion of our test crew on their test trips for years.
Xtreme S 3000
- Price: 89 Euro >> available here
- Folding dimensions: 108 x 36 x 25 cm / weight 6.6 kg
- Working height: 100-145 cm / clamping width 20-45 mm
- Stability: 6/10
- Handling: 5/10
The Xtreme S 3000 is probably one of the most affordable stands on the market and is offered by Rose, a mail order company. The finish looks a little rough. The plastic clamp cannot be folded, but it can be rotated, and the maximum clamping width of 45 millimetres is somewhat limited. Thanks to the swivelling upper tube, even heavy bikes can be positioned centrally above the legs. This means that the Xtreme offers a pretty solid performance even with heavy bikes. Another practical feature is the small storage area that comes with the S 3000.
For carbon frames: If it is not possible to clamp the sensitive carbon frame or if large tube cross-sections make conventional clamping impossible, a mounting stand with axle attachment is the only option. Here, the dropout of the fork is mounted on a carriage and the bottom bracket is supported on a shell. The Tacx Spider Team is compatible with thru axles and costs 199 euros.
For the wall: An assembly stand for wall or workbench mounting is a practical solution for limited space in the basement or workshop. The TB-WS35 stabilises itself over a large area on the wall and allows easy adjustment of the clamp using a large lever. It is available at a price of 119.90 euros.
Storage with a system
As long as bikes are on the ground, they take up valuable space. Create space in your workshop by storing them efficiently. Stowing bikes is a bit like playing Tetris: You need to store bulky items in the most space-saving way possible. The floor is generally the least favourable option. The handlebars of modern mountain bikes often protrude more than 75 centimetres into the room and can be a nuisance when you actually want to walk, stand or work. By making clever use of the air space in the cellar or garage, you can store up to seven bikes on a wall three metres wide without them getting in each other's way. There are numerous solutions on the market for mounting bikes horizontally or vertically on the wall. We present five practical systems that have proven themselves and give recommendations on the distances for wall mounting.
Law enforcers
Topeak Dual Touch
- Price: 159,95 Euro >> available here
- Handling: 8/10
- Flexibility: 8/10
If you use the full 3.20 metre length of the Dual Touch, up to four bikes can be stowed on the easily adjustable brackets. The column clamps securely between the floor and ceiling without the use of tools. Caution for suspended ceilings or old buildings.
BOC Bike-Lift
- Price: 24,90 Euro >> available here
- Handling: 8/10
- Flexibility: 10/10
The Bike-Lift works according to the pulley principle. Even heavy frames can be easily lifted under the ceiling. The system is attached to the handlebars and saddle and is extremely versatile. A very stable ceiling is required, as the dowels are subject to high tensile loads.
bbb ParkingLot
- Price: 12,95 Euro >> available here
- Handling: 6/10
- Flexibility: 7/10
The ParkingLot is the direct competitor to simple screw hooks. A sheet metal guide prevents the wheel from turning sideways and also keeps the wall clean. With a little lifting force, space can be created inexpensively. However, the system cannot handle high-profile rims or Plus tyres.
Park Tool Storage hook
- Price: from 4 Euro >> available here
- Handling: 6/10
- Flexibility: 6/10
Wall hooks are probably the simplest solution for hanging up your bike. The Storage Hook is available in three widths, up to fat bike tyres. The hooks are quickly fixed in place with an anchor, but we only recommend wall mounting to a limited extent. Also suitable for tyres, wheels or wet clothes.
Orgasystem 3800
- Handling: 8/10
- Flexibility: 8/10
- from 70 Euro
This system has been sorting the test bikes in our test cellar for years. The double mount shown here is the smallest unit. If you don't have high-profile carbon rims, you're unlikely to find a better solution. The 3800 model is available for up to eight bikes at a time.
Hang up correctly
When mounting the bikes on the wall, you should bear a few important points in mind. Above all, you should avoid mounting all brackets at the same height. Otherwise, the handlebars and cables can become wedged, causing the bikes to block each other. In addition, a stable rear wall and the use of high-quality dowels are required to withstand the weight of the hanging bikes. The diagram on the left shows all the relevant dimensions for mounting the brackets.
This belongs in every workshop
Our professional mechanics dismantle and assemble hundreds of bikes every year. These parts have proven themselves in hard use because they are particularly practical, inexpensive or durable. They enrich every hobby workshop.
The washing area
If you have a garden or garage with a water connection at home, you can easily wash your bike. Regular cleaning is just as important as regular maintenance. An indispensable tool for bike washing is the Proceed bike stand, which holds bikes securely and allows easy access. This is available for around 25 euros. For the actual cleaning work, you can use cleaning buckets and brushes from the DIY store. A robust sprayer for the garden hose can also tackle coarse dirt with ease. If you don't want to waste any time, you can also use a high-pressure cleaner, but you should be careful as it can quickly remove the lubrication from bearings and chains. If you don't have a water connection, you can use a mobile pressure washer or a traditional sponge and bucket.
These 3 clean up properly
Nomad Aqua2Go
With a 17-litre tank, integrated rechargeable battery and 220-volt connection, you can take your mobile washing system with you virtually anywhere and at any time. Including a long hose and brush set, the Aqua2Go costs 169.95 euros >> e.g. available here.
LUX syringe
With eight functions ranging from spray mist to a powerful water jet, the LUX sprayer easily takes on the battle against mud. It's worth spending a few euros more for the robust aluminium construction. Costs 13.99 euros in DIY stores >> available here.
Kärcher K 2 Basic
For 69.99 euros, frequent cleaners can enter the world of high-pressure cleaners. The rotating nozzle mills the dirt off the bike. The pressure can be regulated, which protects the lubrication of the chain and bearings. >> available here.
The result: the self-built bicycle workshop
This workshop is a really good place to work. The self-built workbench is the centrepiece of the hobby workshop. All the tools are now clearly organised on the tool wall and are always ready to hand. The bicycles are hung on the wall to save space and no longer get in the way when screwing. Helmets, shoes, protectors and bike parts, which were previously scattered all over the room, are now neatly organised and stored in practical plastic boxes within easy reach. Finally, you can concentrate fully on the actual work: keeping the bike in good shape.
Stefan Frey
Editor
