Using velcro as a parking brake, rather than rubber bands or hair "scrunchies," allows more force to be applied to the brake lever.


We also carry "ferry straps", a 3' piece of 1/2" tubular webbing with a sidelock buckle. This piece of equipment meets our multiple use philosophy, and would be a good way of securing your front wheel to the downtube. It also works for securing the bike on ferries and trains, an extra strap if need, and I've also used mine as a belt.

This is my daughter's bike secured on a sloping ferry ramp. Notice the red velcro securing the brake lever, and the blue "ferry strap" securing the bike to the ramp's rail. Easy to make, and webbing and buckles are available at larger outdoor supply stores.