Basic Mechanics Class

Winter 2023 class schedule now available! To register for classes, email urbanbikeproject@gmail.com and let us know which classes you plan on attending. Payment due at the start of your first class.

More Info:

The Urban Bike Project Bicycle Mechanics Class is an 8-hour course providing hands-on instruction about bicycle maintenance and a variety of basic repair tasks.

What’s Covered In The Basic Mechanics Class?

Choose from the following classes, or take all four for the comprehensive 8-hour course:

  1. Flat tire repair and routine maintenance – 2 hours
    Flat tire repairs, including patching tubes, cleaning and oiling your chain, ABC safety check
  2. Braking systems – 2 hours
    Types of brakes, checking and replacing brake pads, checking and replacing brake cables, troubleshooting brakes
  3. Shifters and derailleurs – 2 hours
    Friction vs indexed shifting, adjusting limit screws, replacing and adjusting cables, troubleshooting gears. Also includes an overview of cassettes/freewheels, and when to replace them.
  4. Wheels and bearing systems – 2 hours
    Tightening loose bearings, repacking bearings (we will work on hubs), loose bottom brackets vs loose cranks, truing wheels

What Isn’t Covered?

We try to cover a range of repairs most useful to the everyday bicycle rider. There isn’t enough time in our classes to cover some of the more advanced systems such as hydraulic disc brakes, outboard bottom brackets, press-in hub bearings, or wheel building.

How Much Does It Cost?

Classes listed on our public calendar of events cost $20/session or $75 for all four classes. Pricing for groups variable.

Is There A Way To Offset The Cost?

Yes! If you have volunteered a minimum of 5 times this year, you are eligible to attend classes for free!

When Is The Next Class Scheduled/How Do I Sign-Up?

Monday 1/30, 5:30pm – 7:30pm: Flat Tires and Routine Maintenance
Monday 2/6, 5:30pm – 7:30pm: Brakes
Monday 2/13, 5:30pm – 7:30pm: Shifters & Derailleurs
Monday 2/20, 5:30pm – 7:30pm: Wheels & Bearings

Email us at urbanbikeproject@gmail.com and let us know which classes you would like to attend. Groups can email to arrange pricing and schedule.

Check our calendar or like us on Facebook to receive notifications when future class dates are set, as well as updates on other Urban Bike Project events and classes!

A sample of course materials used for Urban Bike Projects Bicycle Mechanics Class

One example of the instructional materials used in our youth and adult classes. Illustrated by our good friend Todd.