M_S

The reason I ask: I have an interview coming up (tomorrow) at a shop. It's an entry level position, so I'm not really expected to know much of anything, however my job (if I get it) will be assembling new bikes to make them floor-ready. I've heard that typically new mechanics (which is what I'd be) assemble the lower-end models such as hybrids, etcetera. Fine with me, I don't want to be trusted with a Madone or something.

Sooo...

Are the cranks usually installed? How about the bottom bracket? I assume the handlebars would need to be installed (not difficult at all) but how about the headset? Are cables pre-cut to the appropriate lengths?

Any response is appreciated

PhattTyre

Bike come pretty assembled, but you have to adjust everything. You'll have to put bars, stem, pedals, and seatpost on. On lower end bikes the cables come installed, but not adjusted. High end road bikes you usually do the cables and wrap the bars yourself (I always really enjoyed that). You'll usually:

install seatpost, bars, and stem
true wheels (give those spokes a good squeeze)
adjust hubs
adjust brakes (pads and cables)
install pedals
adjust derailleurs (limit screws and cables)
make sure everything is tight (cranks, cassettes, everything)
adjust seat, bar, and stem to appropriate position

Some shops ask for more, like removing and greasing bottom bracket cartridges. If you've ever tried to take one out of a beat to hell hybrid you'll understand why this is important. In general, you put grease anywhere metal touches metal. Cheap bikes should take you anywhere from 30-60 minutes, depending on distractions (the new guy fixes a lot of flats).

M_S

Thanks! I feel fairly confident then. That's all stuff I can pretty much do now, with the exception of removing the bottom bracket. The only reason I "can't" and never have done so before is I lack the remover tool. I don't believe I'll be expected to know how to do so, as this is a "learning position." The guy said that he's looking for me not taking too long during the test (this is the part I'm more nervous about, I guess) and that I handle he tools decently. I really hope I get the job. It's one of my favorite PDX area bike stores, and it would be a great learning experience. Not to mention and employee discount, perhaps?

donnamb 

Good luck, M_S! If you don't mind my asking, which LBS? Let us know the outcome, ok?

M_S

Thanks donna.
The Bike Gallery, their original location on Sandy boulevard.

v1k1ng1001

As long as the people that you work with are cool, you'll learn fast and have a lot of fun!

folder fanatic

I thought this exerpt from a e-mail I received from Dahon a while back might interest you. Here it is:

...Almost all bikes from other bike companies arrive at a bike shop 85% assembled. That means that dealers need to spend 30-60 minutes prepping each bike to get them ready for customers. Dahon bikes arrive 98% assembled which means that dealers should on average spend 5-10 minutes prepping each bike. The problem is that some dealers skip even the 5-10 minute prep. This is where the essential problem is. Consumers rightfully expect a fully prepped bike and most do it but many of the internet guys skip this step and some of the brick and mortar shops skip it as well...

I am glad that your shop at least does not skip this very important step entirely.

M_S

Well, the "interview" was today. I find out within a week if I got the job.

Overall I think it went okay. At certain points I felt a bit slow, but got better as we progressed.

I assembled a Trek 3700, an entry level mountain bike for those who don't know. Pretty basic: V brakes, etc. The shop is rather thorough. All the cables are adjusted and lubed, as are most of the moving parts. Dérailleurs and brakes are adjusted as well, and some other small stuff. Pedals are not attached as the bikes, once assembled, are sent to one of several different locations around town, and this helps with transport. I'd say 85% complete is about acurate for how complete it is out of the box, but some stuff is dissasembled before it's reassembled. I suppose this depends on the individual shop.

It also seemed like it would be a a fantastic place to work, and the interviewer was very friendly. I'd be very happy to get this job!