The TreadDead Rack™: How to Turn Your Old Treadmill into a Bike Rack (Beginner-Friendly)

Amanda Duling

— 2 min read

So your treadmill has officially become a pricey laundry rack or dust collector? Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and we’re not here to judge. In fact, we’ve got a great way to give your treadmill a brand-new life: turn it into a cool, space-saving bike rack!

This guide will show you how to do it step-by-step, in a way that’s simple, safe, and doesn’t require a garage full of tools.

✅ You’ll Need:

  • Your unused treadmill
  • 2–4 bike hooks (you can find them at any hardware store or online)
  • A screwdriver or drill (optional—but makes life easier!)
  • Bungee cords or Velcro straps (for extra bike security)
  • Foam padding or towels (to protect your bike + treadmill)
  • A helper friend or family member (nice, but not necessary)

🚲 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Pick the Perfect Spot

Choose a place in your home where the treadmill already lives—or where you’d prefer to store your bikes. It could be:

  • Garage
  • Spare room
  • Basement
  • Hallway (if it’s wide enough) Make sure the area is clean and level. No wobbly floors, please!

2. Unplug That Treadmill

We don’t want anything to start unexpectedly. Go ahead and unplug the treadmill and neatly tuck the cord away so it’s not a tripping hazard.

3. Clean Off the Treadmill

Brush off any dust or laundry piles (we know it’s been doubling as a closet). You’ll want a clean space to work with!

4. Decide How You Want to Store Your Bikes

You have two easy options, depending on your treadmill's shape:

Option A: Store bikes vertically, by hanging them on the treadmill’s handrails.

Option B: Store bikes horizontally, by resting their wheels on the walking belt and leaning them gently against the sides.

Tip: Vertical saves space and looks cooler. Horizontal is simpler if you don’t want to hang anything.

5. Install Bike Hooks (if hanging vertically)

Take your bike hooks and attach them to the metal sidebars or handrails of the treadmill. You might need to pre-drill small holes if the treadmill frame is thick. Ask a friend or watch a short YouTube video if you’ve never used a drill before—it’s easier than it sounds!

If your treadmill folds upright, that’s even better! You can mount the hooks on the underside of the folded deck and hang bikes from it.

6. Add Padding (Optional—but smart!)

Wrap some foam or towels around any sharp treadmill corners or metal bars that touch your bike frame. This helps avoid scratching both your bike and your dormant gym equipment.

7. Hang or Lean Your Bikes

Slowly lift and hang the bikes on the hooks (front wheel up) or gently roll the bikes onto the treadmill belt and lean them against the side rails. If hanging is tough by yourself, ask a buddy.

8. Secure the Bikes

Use bungee cords or Velcro straps to keep the bikes steady—especially if you have kids, pets, or an enthusiastic Roomba.

🎉 That’s it!

You now have a super creative and functional bike storage station made from something that was just collecting dust. And hey, it’s a great conversation starter! Who knew your treadmill would finally help with fitness… just not in the way you originally planned?

Bonus Tips:

💡 Want to take it further?

  • Add small hooks for helmets and gloves.
  • Use the cupholders for your bike lights, tools, or water bottles.
  • Paint and decorate it if you’re feeling inspired!

Final Thoughts:

Don’t let the guilt of unused fitness gear haunt you. You are not alone, and now your treadmill has a new purpose in life—and so do you: Bike Storage Genius.

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