When it comes to storing bicycles vertically, a wall-mounted hook that grabs the front wheel rim is what's usually used (although there are exceptions). It's effective but perhaps not always that attractive, plus it presents a head-banging hazard. The Clug offers a lower-profile, more interior designer-friendly alternative.
Created by Vancouver-based Hurdler Studios, the Clug is simply a flexible C-shaped bracket.
Its outer plastic "clipper" section is first screwed into the wall, using a template incorporated into its cardboard packaging to establish where the holes should be drilled. Adhesive picture-mounting strips will reportedly also work, if you don't want to put holes in your wall.
The soft elastomer "gripper" section is then placed inside the clipper. While the clipper provides the tension to hold onto the bike's front tire, the gripper provides the grip (appropriately enough) while also protecting the rim from scratches.
The designers are currently raising production funds for the Clug, on Kickstarter. A pledge of CAD$9 (about US$8.25) will get you one, when and if they're ready to go. The current version is designed to fit road bike tires, although a bigger model for mountain bike tires is in the works.
More information is available in the pitch video below.
Source: Kickstarter
Try it and you will find out why not.
I have made a lot of bike racks, for bike shops, for home, for friends and for the tops of cars. Currently I hang nine bikes vertically using the "garage hook", alternating front and back wheels. The rack stands on the floor and just leans against the wall. There is a beam with guides for the lower wheels to hold the bikes at a 45 degree angle and keeps the bikes from swinging into each other. This also keeps tire marks off the walls. I have a shelf above the beam the hooks screw into to store spare parts and gear. Not nearly as simple as a Clug but a very effective design.
There is a lot to like about the concept and the neat installation guide. The video is also well done. I can see these used at work and home but there may be a few problems:
1) The user needs to have a way to keep tire marks off the wall.
2) The clug only fits a specific (or narrow range?) tire size and the installation is for a specific wheelbase. You might need to have your name on your Clug at work.
3) If your tire goes flat does your bike fall down? Long term storage might be a problem.
4) If you bump into your bike will it fall down? Or a better question: How hard can you bump into it without knocking it over?
5) If you leave your bike Cluged in for a few months (we have long winters here) does it mess up the tire?