bike hanger
At SHEPP Industrial Design, I focused on expanding the Gnarwall brand by designing a pedal-mounted bike hanger. I conducted research, identifying a novel market for entry, and pitched a minimal bike storage solution. After the concept was approved, I refined the design through numerous iterations, CAD simulations and communications with manufacturers. I also designed the packaging and marketing material. The final product successfully expanded the brand into a new market.
The Gnarwall bike hanger is available at www.gnarwall.co
Gnarwall’s existing product line focused on storage and display solutions for surfboards, a niche market within the outdoor goods sector. To expand the brand’s reach, I decided to target the cycling community, a much larger market that lacks storage and display options with the minimalistic qualities of Gnarwall products. Although the bike storage market is saturated, my research revealed a gap for a product that could securely hold bikes while maintaining a minimal footprint, displaying the bike unobstructed. Given these findings, I chose to develop a pedal-mounted bike hanger - following the brief’s design guidelines.
I began prototyping with laser-cut models of early sketch ideas to test key variables such as pedal angle, distance from the wall, mounting methods, and overall stability. Then, I transitioned to 3D-printed prototypes where excess material was replaced with large supportive gussets for strength. Die-cast aluminum was selected as the final material for production, and the prototypes were modified to meet these requirements. To ensure the structural integrity and manufacturability of the bike hanger, I used Solidworks Simulation to conduct product strength and draft analyses.
The project included the design of a complete packaging solution. To determine how to securely and efficiently store the bike hanger and its accessories, iterative prototypes were developed using a laser cutter. This process resulted in a three-piece insert designed to hold the components securely within the shipping box, reducing cost and weight. The packaging graphics were designed to align with existing brand guidelines.
I developed and delivered the Gnarwall bike hanger over a 12-week timeline, successfully expanding the brand’s product line. This process encompassed the entire product lifecycle, from ideation and design to production. My responsibilities included preparing all marketing materials, such as photographs, technical assets, and website content.
The bike hanger is available to purchase at www.gnarwall.co
