Bicycles are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transportation, especially in large cities. This has led to a rise in the number of people who need bike parking. So, does Walmart have bike racks outside?
Does Walmart Have Bike Racks Outside?
Not all Walmarts will have bike racks, but most will. Depending on where you live, you might find that your local Walmart has a few racks located far away from the entrance. This is usually in larger cities with a greater demand for bike parking. On the other hand, the smaller Walmart Neighborhood Markets might not have bike racks, so it varies by location.
If you’re planning to ride your bike to Walmart, it’s always best to call ahead and check if bike racks are available. Maybe you’ve considered riding your bike to Walmart to pick up a few items or do some grocery shopping, but not sure what to expect.
Don’t worry; I’ve researched how to keep your bike safe and where to park when taking your bike to Walmart.
So, here’s everything you need to know.
*This page contains affiliate links to products I recommend. If you purchase something from this page, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
Is Walmart Bike Friendly?
Walmart is a bike-friendly store and welcomes cyclists. Some associates who ride their bikes to work can park their bikes in the back room.
As a shopper, you will have to park your bike outside, but using their bike racks won’t cost you a dime.
Does Walmart Have Bike Parking?
Not all Walmart stores or Walmart Neighborhood Markets have bike racks for bikers. However, most of the 4,662 retail stores throughout the United States will.
Their motto says it all “We aim to build a better world – helping people live better and renew the planet while building thriving, resilient communities.
The company strives to save their customers save more of their hard-earned money, and they understand that some people ride bikes to save money.”
So, if you live in an area or visit a Walmart without a bike rack, you can always ask an associate to help you out.
The Walmart I live near has a bike rack in the employee break area, and there is usually someone sitting there who won’t mind watching it while you run in and buy what you need.
Where to Locate The Bike Racks At Walmart?
Unlike Publix and some other grocery stores, Walmart’s bike racks are located away from foot traffic and entrances. If you have an expensive bike, it can make you feel uncomfortable to park your bike so far away from the entrance.
Most people don’t like the fact that they can’t see their bicycle while shopping.
The main reason Walmart puts the bike racks so far away from the entrance is so bikers won’t collide with their customers.
Is Walmart Responsible for My Bike for Thefts?
No, Walmart is not responsible for property damage or theft on their property.
You’ve likely seen those signs saying they are not responsible for vehicle damage caused by shopping carts. Well, that should let you know they won’t take responsibility for your bicycle.
If your bike gets stolen, you will be responsible for filing the police report.
When using the public bike racks at Walmart, you’ll want to ensure that you have a good lock. Of course, a U-lock is always best, but if you don’t have one, you can use a cable lock or a chain lock.
Just make sure it’s a good-quality lock that will be difficult for someone to break.
If you believe someone will mess with your bike, you may want to take the seat off it and carry it inside with you.
Most people won’t steal a bike that doesn’t have a seat, but it’s always best to play it safe.
Can I Enter Walmart With My Bike?
Most Walmart chains won’t allow you to bring your bike inside the store, which is why they provide bike racks for their customers.
According to Consumerist, when a bicyclist tried to take her $600 bike into the store, she wasn’t allowed.
Walmart’s bike policy prevents people from bringing outside bikes into the store.
The reason is that Walmart sells bicycles, and allowing people to bring bicycles into Walmart would be too confusing. Meaning it would be hard to know if someone brought their own bicycle into Walmart or if they were trying to walk outside with a bike without paying for it.
Of course, if you live in a smaller town, you may be able to get away with bringing your bike inside. I’ve seen people do it before, but ultimately it’s up to the Walmart store manager.
Some stores are more lenient than others when it comes to their policies.
What To Do If Walmart Doesn’t Have Bike Racks
If the Walmart you’re visiting doesn’t have bike racks available, you have a few options for securing your bike while running inside the store to grab what you need.
These options can work whether you’re shopping at the mall, grocery store, or any other retail store.
Invest In A Durable Lock
First, ensuring you have a good quality heavy-duty lock that will deter a bike thief is crucial. There are several available on the market, and some of the best ones to look for are the U-lock, chain lock, or D-lock cable.
The U-lock bike lock is one of the most popular because it is durable and easy to use.
In addition, most are heavier and more secure than a chain lock, and ones such as the Kryptonite Evolution consists of a 11 – 14mm hardened steel shackle, making it virtually resistant to bolt cutters, hammers, and saws.
The U-lock works best when securing your bicycle to an immovable anchor point, such as railings, bike stands, or thinner poles.
One downfall is you can’t secure your bike to thicker objects such as light poles, trees, or benches.
Use A Cable Lock
If you want more flexibility in how and where you can lock your bike, then a cable lock may be a good option for you. These types of locks have a steel cable coated in vinyl, making it difficult to cut through.
The great thing about the cable lock is that you can use it to secure your bike frame and wheel to various objects.
Because the cable is thin, it can be easy to cut through if someone has bolt cutters.
Chain Locks
Chain locks are hardened steel links wrapped in a protective nylon sleeve with an attached combination lock. These locks are incredibly flexible and can be used to secure your bicycle to a wide range of objects, such as; trees, benches, and handrails.
The chain is also tough to cut through, making it a great option if you’re looking for a durable lock.
The only downfall is that it can be a hassle to carry it around. So most people attach their chain locks to the bar of their bicycle frame.
The type of lock you have will depend on where you can secure your bicycle.
However, here are some stable, immovable objects to look for when securing your bicycle on public property without a bike rack.
- Fences
- Poles
- Railings
- Benches
- Trees
- Light Posts
The most important thing is choosing a solid object that prevents the bike from being lifted over. Then follow these tips to ensure your bike stays when secure without a bike rack.
- Lock your bike in an area with high foot traffic.
- Secure the bike’s frame, back, and back wheel.
- Remove the seat and take it in the store with you.
- Ensure it doesn’t block traffic, vehicle parking, or people.
Depending on how long you’ll be in the store, you may want to consider taking the front wheel with you.
Of course, this depends on whether Walmart allows you to take the wheel inside. If not, you can remove the front wheel and hide it under a bush or somewhere out of sight. Thieves will be less likely to steal a bike that’s not complete.
If you’re just running in quickly, you may be able to get away with locking just the front wheel to the frame.
The most important thing is having a good quality lock and securing your bicycle to a stable, immovable object.
By following these tips, you can rest assured knowing your bike will be waiting for you when you return from Walmart.
Final Word
Walmart is a great place to shop for all your needs, but it’s essential to be aware of their bike policy before you go. Most Walmart stores won’t allow you to bring your bike inside because it would make it confusing for its employees to know whether someone owns the bike or is attempting to steal it.
If the Walmart you’re visiting doesn’t have bike racks, invest in a good quality lock to secure your bicycle.
You can also look for other places to lock up your bike, such as; fences, poles, railings, benches, trees, and light posts.
Make it a point to visit the store during the day and in a well-lit area for the best chance of keeping your bike safe.
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Sources
https://www.bikeforums.net/advocacy-safety/1137976-don-t-understand-walmart-s-policy.html