Bicycle mechanics repair and service our bikes so that we can enjoy our
leisure time in safety and comfort.
They must possess physical coordination and considerable patience. Their
hours may be long and hard in the spring and summer, then slack off in the
winter, depending on where they live and work.
In their most basic form, bicycles have roughly 30 major parts. Mechanics
must continually keep up to date on the latest parts and technology in order
to make repairs accurately and efficiently.
They also must know what products are being recalled and how to repair
them.
Jenny Skorcz is an instructor at the Barnett Bicycle Institute in Colorado.
She says being a mechanic teaches you skills that you can use in other areas.
"You develop problem-solving skills, people skills, as well as learn a
trade that could lead to other things," she explains.
"In our society, we are dependent on specialists to take care of our belongings
when things break down. By learning one aspect of mechanics, it is possible
to extend that knowledge to other things."