How to Find a Bike Mechanic

• Truing (straightening) wheels
• Replacing gears and derailleurs
• Fixing cracks in the frame

• Visit a good bike shop: Good bike shops typically have reputable mechanics on staff. They’re also often authorized retailers of the best bike brands, such as Trek® and Specialized®. Look for a mechanic at a shop that stocks your type and brand of bike.
• Find a mechanic who makes you feel comfortable: If you’re an amateur bike rider and you run across a mechanic who treats you with condescension or thinks your questions are stupid, find somebody else. Avoid mechanics who ignore your specific concerns before diagnosing the problem with your bike.
• Get a cost estimate: Have your mechanic provide a detailed, up-front cost estimate for all repairs. Before the mechanic starts work, agree with him or her on a final cost that the repair should not exceed.

Questions to Ask a Potential Mechanic

• How long have you been a professional bike mechanic? 3–5 years (or more).
• How long will it take to complete this repair? A week or less. Bike repairs should take no longer than one week, unless the bike needs a massive overhaul.
• Have you completed any bike mechanic training courses? Yes. Serious bike mechanics should have at least some formal training, such as a certificate from an extensive bike maintenance course.
• Will you let me know if you see any other problems while doing this repair? Yes. A professional mechanic should expect to contact you if additional repairs are required and proceed with those repairs only after you’ve agreed to cover any additional costs they incur.
• Do you specialize in repairing my type of bike? Yes. Years of experience and training don’t guarantee that the mechanic can fix your specific model. Hire a mechanic who knows your particular bike.
• Do you offer refunds if the problem doesn’t go away after the repair is finished? Yes. Problems sometimes persist after costly repairs have been made and paid for. When this happens, professional mechanics should either offer to make further adjustments for free or grant you a refund.