Originally Posted by
FastJake
On a more serious note, do you charge money for these classes? I find that people are more invested (literally) in something if they have to fork over money for it. If it's free they are less likely to take it seriously or even show up. Five or ten bucks per person should do it, paid in advance.
Originally Posted by
AnkleWork
+1 on Jake's charging. Price enhances the perception of value.
The classes I do at the shop is free. The Adult Ed class charges $40 for the two hour class. Same class, but we rarely get people in for the class at the shop, the ones people have to pay for are usually full.
Originally Posted by
calimtb
Awesome that you are teaching a class. I don't think any of the local shops are offering. It's likely they need the business and can't be so generous as to help create a base of cyclists who don't need mechanics. I'd have to drive 45 minutes to an hour out to find a mechanics class. I'd be willing to do it though, just because it sounds like fun.
Originally Posted by
habilis
It would be interesting to know the long-term effect of a mechanically savvy population on bike shops.
Those of us who work on our own bikes frequently visit the LBS for parts and upgrades. The more we know about bikes, the more likely we are to buy really expensive machines. Just a theory.
Hosting a class on premises seems like a good way to get people in the door where they can see the new bikes
People appreciate the fact that the local shop offers classes, and while I don't get paid for teaching the Adult Ed classes, I push our shop and Pedros products (local to our town; they contribute a loaner stand and product for the class).
Seems that the more people know about their bikes, the more they want to keep them in decent shape. So while I cover a lot of stuff, there are usually issues I either fix on site outside the scope of the class, or advise them to seek further service. And yes, getting people in the shop for a class usually leads to browsing and sales. Flat repair kits, pumps, and chain lube are popular items after a class...