Bicycle Mechanics

Many people become interested in bicycle repair because they own and maintain their own bikes. The League of American Bicyclists offers a list of bike maintenance and repair tips on its Web site, https://bikeleague.org/ridesmart/bike-maintenance. Taking general maintenance and tune-up classes that some bike shops offer for bicycle owners is a good way for you to explore your interest in working with bikes. Visit with the bicycle mechanics at these shops and ask them for their insights. How did they start in this line of work? What do they enjoy most about it? What is the most challenging aspect of the job? If a local shop does not offer classes, consider taking courses at a private school such as the United Bicycle Institute.

Bike shops sometimes hire inexperienced students as assistants to work on a part-time basis or during the summer when their business is most brisk. Such a job is probably the best way to find out about this type of work.

Various magazines are available at larger newsstands, bookstores, or public libraries, or online, that are devoted to recreational cycling and serious bicycle racing. These magazines often cover the technical aspects of how bicycles are constructed and operated, and they may provide helpful information to anyone interested in bike repair. Examples include Bicycling (https://www.bicycling.com/repair) and BIKE Magazine (https://www.bikemag.com). Bicycle associations can provide additional information regarding classes, industry news, and employment.