Introduction: Bike Front Rack Under $3
Well it's a bit clickbait title I know, but it is made out of single tube that I bought for 170 rubles which is less then $3 for current exchange rate.
I should say that I was inspired by this project https://www.instructables.com/Weldless-Front-Bike-Rack/
I've never done welding so I decided to improvise.
Supplies
Aluminum tube Ø10mm length 2 meters
40mm bolt and nut
PVC tube leftover 15-20mm
2 plastic ties(optional)
Step 1: Prepare, Measure and Bend Tube
I've done tube bending for fist time without special tool. And I recommend to use it if you have access to it.
I've filled it with sand in local playground sandbox where my son was playing :) It is needed for saving tube form while bending
Then I've marked half of it and bended around 100mm plastic tube
Step 2: Measure Again, Bend and Cut
This step is important, you need to figure out how your rack will look like after bending. I recommend to use rope it order to prototype shape of future rack.
My bike wheel is 28" and I've decided that I want to have rack about 40 cm length... now I would use 35cm length of rack.
I would suggest bend slowly always checking with your bike. Rack should mount a bit like a spring
After bending most likely you'll need to cute a bit of tube like I did. I've cut 12 cm from each side.
Step 3: Fatten Ends and Make Mounting Holes
In order to mount it to axe, I've flatten end in vise and made holes.
Round file might be useful
Step 4: Mount Holder to the Fork
For fork holder I've used leftover of PVC pipe (13 mm internal diameter) and 2 plastic tides. You might find better solution, just use whatever you have.
Step 5: Mount Rack and And Some Box on Top of It
Frankly I have not completed this step, not found perfect box yet. But I've tested with 5-6 kilograms of liquid and some bag.