Bike repair, safety and maintenance classes are taught mainly through colleges and universities as non-credit courses, or through bicycle shops, nonprofit organizations and the odd for-profit bike school. Courses are generally more plentiful in metropolitan or highly populated suburban areas. Some are free, while others have a cost associated.
Schools or Shops with Bicycle Mechanic and Repair Classes
These institutions offer various bicycle repair classes at beginner or advanced levels.
| Institution | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Cost 2019-2020* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barnett Bicycle Institute | Colorado Springs, CO | Private, For-Profit | Certificate | $2,200 |
| United Bicycle Institute | Ashland or Portland, OR | Private, For-Profit | Certificate | $950 |
| University of New Mexico | Albuquerque, NM | Public | Certificate | $99 |
| Bicycle Habitat | New York, NY | Private, For-Profit | N/A | $300 |
| Wheelie Store | Medford, NJ | Private, For-Profit | N/A | N/A |
Sources: *School and store websites
Bike Repair School or Class Selection Criteria
Students interested in studying bicycle repair should keep the following considerations in mind:
- If students are planning on a career in bicycle repair, it is suggested they consult the potential school's alumni database to see if there are any employment opportunities in the area.
- Some schools may focus on lectures and presentations, where others may involve more hands-on instruction, so students should take into consideration their personal learning style.
- Certifications are usually available after coursework and a final exam, and students may want to ensure that their program of choice will adequately prepare them for certification.
- Learning in a specific area of expertise, such as wheel building or bike suspension, is available for students who are interested.
Bike Repair Courses
Classes are offered both at beginner and advanced levels. Courses run anywhere from one to two weeks and are designed to leave students with a professional understanding of all elements of bicycle mechanics.
Bike Safety Courses
Bike safety is sometimes offered as a standalone continuing education class through colleges and universities. These classes are often designed for the bike enthusiast who wants some professional tips on how to better take care of her bike and how to stay safe on the road.
Shop Management and Sales
Bike schools offer these courses for aspiring bike shop owners and floor managers. They train students in the basic employee and business management skills needed to operate a bike business and provide students with pointers on how to successfully market their abilities to a community.
Prospective bike mechanics can find a variety of classes at beginner and advanced levels, and some schools may offer additional training for those who wish to become managers or store owners. Students should consider what sort of instruction they prefer, as well as whether a program offers specific training in areas of interest.
