Bicycle Repair Shop

Rusty handlebars, worn brakes, bent wheels… These small defects increase the risk of accidents and can permanently immobilise your two-wheeler. It is, therefore, best to correct them quickly. If you know how to use a pedal spanner or chain drive, you can repair your bike yourself to save on repair costs. However, for some repairs, it is advisable to call in a specialist bike repair shop. Let’s take a look at what you can do yourself and what you should leave to a specialist.

Do it yourself or have it repaired?

There are certain defects that must be corrected immediately. For example, loose screws that are dangerous when riding or rust that can cause the frame or handlebars to break if it spreads.

Repairing your bike yourself can save you money. Some repairs can easily be done by yourself. However, you should not underestimate the expertise and experience required to repair a bicycle. More extensive repairs and complex work on vital parts of the bike, such as brakes or derailleurs, should be carried out by a bicycle repair shop specialist. Incorrect adjustment of precision components can lead to an accident.

Simple repairs that can easily be carried out even by novices include:

• replacing the brake pads
• replacing the chain and lubricating it
• repairing the inner tube
• changing the tyre
• repairing small impacts

People with more solid knowledge can also carry out the following repairs:

• replacing the chain
• adjusting the length of the chain
• riveting the chain
• adjusting the handlebars
• bearing and hub adjustment
• repairing the bottom bracket
• wheel centring

All other repairs should be carried out by a bicycle repair shop professional. Depending on the case, he or she will either carry out the entire repair or check and, if necessary, improve the repair you have made. Unfolding a wheel, for example, is easy to do: simply locate the spoke gap and tighten or loosen the spokes concerned. Removing a wheel hop, on the other hand, is more complicated. To do this, several spokes must be tightened and loosened at the same time and the rim and nipples must be adjusted – operations that require skill and patience. It is best to consult a bicycle repair specialist if there is a lot of wobbles, especially if the wheel does not turn at all, for example after an accident or because you have driven into a pothole. Correcting a figure-eight requires special tools and an expert eye – a poor fit could cause parts to break.

Finding a bike repair shop

If your knowledge is not enough or the repairs are too extensive, you will have to go to a repair shop. Professional repairers have special tools and a stock of spare parts: they can repair different types of bikes quickly.

Which bike repair centre is good?

Always go to a specialist repair shop. To become a bike mechanic, you have to complete a recognised training course that takes several years. Mechanics must be properly qualified and have sufficient experience. Another important point is that you should contact a bike mechanic who specialises in the type of bike you have. This is not important for city bikes or standard bikes. But the repair of triathlon bikes, mobile bikes, and recumbent bikes requires specific knowledge and special spare parts.

Take your bike with you to the first service, so that you can find out what repairs need to be made and how much it will cost. The mechanic will be able to identify the cause of the problem, which will give you an idea of the professionalism of the workshop. It is a good sign, for example, if the mechanic looks at the whole bike instead of just the problem area. Brakes, handlebars, derailleur, and bearing play are the points that should be checked.

Choosing the right repair shop

Find out in detail about the various services included in the repair before you decide. Some bike repair shops include, for example, a complete overhaul of your bike or provide you with a spare bike until the repair is complete.

To avoid waiting, make an appointment when you come to collect your bike. The length of time your bike is out of service depends on the severity of the breakdown, but also on other factors.

Repairing your bike yourself

With a little know-how and the right tools, you can repair the bike yourself.

Tools for repairing your bike

It’s good to have some basic tools and a few essential spare parts on hand if you enjoy cycling. The following are part of the basic equipment:

• a pump
• spare inner tubes and a repair kit
• a set of hexagonal spanners
• a spare chain link
• spoke spanner
• tyre iron
• slotted screwdriver

There are many special tools for more complex routine repairs. Here are the minimum requirements:

• pedal spanner
• tyre iron
• wheel centring tool

Also, invest in a repair kit to take with you on your trips. These kits contain mini multi-tools that are practical because they take up little space. You can attach them to the saddle or luggage rack of your bike. If your bike breaks down, you’ll be able to carry out a temporary repair. When you get home, you should then carefully inspect your bike and, if necessary, carry out a more extensive repair

Repairing your bike – Tips for a successful repair

If you are not sure whether you have carried out the repair correctly, contact a cycling association, which can give you some tips and tricks and enlighten you about the condition of your bike.

A bike stand is very useful for repairs: it holds the bike firmly while you work and allows you to remain in a comfortable position.

A few simple steps can reduce the risk of breakdowns and limit repairs. To prevent precision mechanical parts from becoming dirty, clean and grease them frequently. Also, check tyre pressure regularly to avoid punctures. Regular maintenance will allow you to identify weak points in your bike in good time.

Until the end of the year 10% discount on bike maintenance

Bicycle repair shops near me

Choose the nearest bice repair shop from the least below.

Edmonton

Vancouver

Montréal

Toronto