PVC pipe is one of the easiest of all building materials to work with. You cut the pipe to length using PVC cutters and fit sections together with PVC cement and couplers. Depending on your creative talents and the type of bicycle, the sky's the limit as far as designing something that serves a function or looks great. Whether pragmatic or eccentric, PVC pipe projects for a bike accomplish your aim in one afternoon or over a course of time that suits your schedule.
Outriggers
Training wheels are practical accessories for enthusiastic young cyclists eager to get into the world of two-wheelers. Simple triangular struts you make from ½-inch PVC pipe attach to the bike by drilling for small bolts and mounting brackets on each side of the rear axle. Hard rubber wheels, like those used on garden dollies, are fitted to PVC couplers at the end of each strut. Make a pair of outriggers that fit over the front and rear of the upper frame tube to carry a surfboard or more PVC pipe for other projects.
Canopy
Your recumbent ride can be even more relaxing by adding a canopy made from PVC pipe and a covering of choice. Drill the vertical legs of the canopy and attach each to brackets you install on the bicycle frame. PVC 45-degree couplers combine with lengths of PVC pipe to construct a hexagon framework as the canopy. For the high-speed recumbent crowd, add a stabilizer bar at the back of the canopy. Cover the canopy with bright-colored vinyl fabric for full shade or garden mesh for partial shade. Nylon ties hold the fabric to the canopy frame.
Trailers
Bicycle trailers allow you to cart any number or type of things from one place to another. Outfit a PVC frame with axles and wheelbarrow wheels you obtain at a garden equipment shop. A larger-diameter pipe and couplers, such as 1-inch or 1 1/2-inch, increases the load capacity of a bicycle trailer. Include cross members with padding to haul your kayak or surfboard. Cap the ends of the cross members with PVC endcaps to keep the water out. Bungee cords are easily attached around the tubes of the trailer to ensure your cargo stays in place.
Stands and Racks
You can convert your bike for dual-use by building and stationary stand for exercising. A frame is assembled using PVC elbows and tees to plug in uprights. PVC couplers are mounted perpendicular atop each upright to support the rear axles of the bicycle. Build a rectangular base with a U-shaped wheel rack to park your bicycle. Carry the rack in your PVC bike trailer for convenient parking.
Member Comments