It's particuarly worthwhile, I think, to get in a few course hours at a place like Barnett's Bicycle institute prior to looking for work as a professional bike mechanic. I've recieved many applications for bike mechanics from those who profess to have some expertise derived from working on their own bikes. I am much more impressed when someone has taken the time to complete at least a week of formal bike mechanics. Plus, it shows the individual is motivated and has a certain level of committment. Attending such a course in anticipation of going into the bicycle business was of enormous benefit to me.
Originally Posted by Hanzo
How does a person know if they are good enough to work in a bike shop?
I've always done all my own (and my free loading friends) repairs and upgrades since my bmx days and I find it quite fun. A few days ago I spent most of the afternoon swapping the drivetrains (BB, brakes, brifters, whole nine yards) between my two road bikes. It really wasn't necessary but I just liked one frame more than the other, wanted the better gruppo on it, and figured what the heck. It went really smooth and now both bikes are just dialed. After all that I started to think, man, I'd love to do this all day, at least compared to the lame stuff I do all day at my job now.
Should I pursue this? Should I apply at local shops and see what happens? Is there some things I should know to not make a complete fool of myself? Any current mechanics have tips on how they got started?