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Monday, May 15, 2023

Careers within the Bicycle Industry that are not Mechanical

This blog really emphasizes Bicycle Mechanics and mechanical skills, but what about other jobs within the industry that don't necessarily involve fixing bicycles?

Photo on the Right: Smokey Dymny of the Quadra Bike School teaching how to fix brake handles.

Here is a list of jobs in the bicycle industry that exclude bicycle mechanics:

  1. Bicycle Designer: Bicycle designers are responsible for creating and developing innovative bicycle designs. They work on aspects such as frame geometry, materials, aerodynamics, and aesthetics to design bicycles that meet specific performance and market demands.
  2. Product Manager: Product managers oversee the development, production, and marketing of bicycles and related accessories. They conduct market research, identify customer needs, manage product development processes, and coordinate with various teams to bring new products to market.
  3. Sales Representative: Sales representatives in the bicycle industry work directly with customers, retailers, or distributors to promote and sell bicycles, components, or accessories. They build relationships, provide product information, handle inquiries, negotiate sales, and contribute to achieving sales targets.
  4. Marketing Specialist: Marketing specialists develop and implement marketing strategies to promote bicycles and related products. They conduct market research, plan advertising campaigns, manage digital marketing initiatives, create content, and execute promotional activities to increase brand awareness and drive sales.
  5. Supply Chain Manager: Supply chain managers oversee the flow of goods and materials within the bicycle industry. They manage inventory, coordinate with suppliers, optimize logistics, monitor production processes, and ensure timely delivery of products while maintaining cost efficiency.
  6. Brand Manager: Brand managers are responsible for developing and managing the brand identity and positioning of bicycle companies. They create brand strategies, manage brand communication, oversee advertising and PR efforts, and ensure brand consistency across all marketing channels.
  7. Bike Fit Specialist: Bike fit specialists assist customers in finding the right bike size and optimizing their position on the bicycle for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. They assess body measurements, flexibility, and riding style to provide personalized fit recommendations and make necessary adjustments to bikes.
  8. Event Coordinator: Event coordinators plan and organize cycling events such as races, charity rides, or product launches. They handle logistics, secure permits, coordinate with sponsors and vendors, manage registrations, and ensure smooth execution of the event.
  9. Bicycle Tour Guide: Bicycle tour guides lead guided tours, showcasing popular cycling routes, landmarks, and attractions. They provide route guidance, ensure participant safety, share knowledge about the area, and create an enjoyable and informative experience for cyclists.
  10. Bike Shop Manager: Bike shop managers oversee the daily operations of bicycle retail stores. They manage staff, handle inventory, ensure customer satisfaction, oversee repairs and services, and contribute to overall business growth and profitability.
  11. Bicycle Courier: Bicycle couriers deliver packages, documents, or food using bicycles as their primary mode of transportation. They navigate urban areas efficiently, adhere to delivery schedules, and provide timely and reliable service to clients.
  12. Bike Share Program Coordinator: Bike share program coordinators manage and oversee bike-sharing programs in cities or communities. They handle logistics, maintain bike fleets, coordinate with local authorities, promote usage, and ensure the smooth operation of bike share systems.
  13. Bicycle Retail Sales Associate: Bicycle retail sales associates work in bike shops, assisting customers in selecting bicycles, accessories, and components. They provide product knowledge, offer recommendations, process sales transactions, and provide after-sales support.
  14. Bicycle Mechanic Trainer: Bicycle mechanic trainers teach aspiring mechanics the skills and knowledge needed to repair and maintain bicycles. They develop training programs, deliver hands-on instruction, and evaluate students' performance.
  15. Bike Tour Operator: Bike tour operators organize and lead guided cycling tours for tourists and enthusiasts. They plan routes, arrange accommodations and logistics, provide equipment, and offer a unique and immersive cycling experience.
  16. Bicycle Event Organizer: Bicycle event organizers plan and coordinate cycling events such as races, charity rides, or cycling festivals. They handle logistics, secure permits, coordinate with sponsors, manage registrations, and ensure the successful execution of the event.
  17. Bicycle Frame Builder: Bicycle frame builders construct custom bicycle frames using various materials such as steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber. They use specialized tools and techniques to create frames tailored to individual riders' specifications.
  18. Bike Fit Technician: Bike fit technicians specialize in optimizing bike fit for cyclists. They assess riders' biomechanics, adjust bike components, and provide recommendations to enhance comfort, performance, and injury prevention.
  19. Cycling Coach: Cycling coaches provide training and guidance to cyclists of all levels, from beginners to professionals. They develop training programs, analyze performance data, offer technique advice, and provide motivation and support to help cyclists achieve their goals.
  20. Bicycle Industry Journalist: Bicycle industry journalists report on cycling-related news, trends, and product releases. They write articles, conduct interviews, and provide insights into the cycling industry through print or online publications.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of job roles available within the bicycle industry. Each plays a vital role in the development, promotion, and support of bicycles and cycling-related products and services.

Monday, May 1, 2023

Common Bike Maintenance Tasks

Keeping your bike in good working order is essential for safe, comfortable, and enjoyable rides. While it's always best to have a professional bicycle mechanic perform major repairs or adjustments, there are several simple maintenance tasks that bike owners can do themselves. Here are some of the most important bike maintenance tasks that you should perform regularly:

  1. Clean and lubricate the drivetrain: The drivetrain includes the chain, derailleur, cassette, and chainrings. Over time, dirt, grime, and grit can accumulate on these components, causing them to wear down and not work properly. Regular cleaning and lubrication can prevent this from happening. To clean the drivetrain, use a degreaser and a brush to remove any dirt or grime. Then, apply a lubricant specifically designed for bikes to the chain, derailleur, cassette, and chainrings.

  2. Check and adjust tire pressure: Proper tire pressure is essential for a safe and comfortable ride. Check your tire pressure regularly with a tire pressure gauge and adjust it as needed. The recommended tire pressure is usually printed on the sidewall of the tire.

  3. Check and adjust brakes: Brakes are a critical safety component of your bike. Regularly check your brakes for wear and tear, and adjust them as needed. If you have rim brakes, make sure the pads are making good contact with the rim and adjust the cable tension as needed. If you have disc brakes, check the brake pads and adjust the caliper as needed.

  4. Check and adjust gears: Gears are what allow you to ride efficiently and tackle hills with ease. Regularly check your gears for wear and tear and adjust them as needed. If you have a derailleur system, make sure the shifting is smooth and the derailleur is properly aligned.

  5. Check and tighten bolts: Regularly check all the bolts on your bike and tighten them as needed. This includes bolts on the stem, handlebars, saddle, and pedals.

Performing these maintenance tasks regularly can help prevent major repairs and prolong the life of your bike. However, if you're not comfortable performing any of these tasks yourself, or if you notice any issues with your bike that you're unsure about, it's always best to take your bike to a professional bicycle mechanic for inspection and repairs.

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Looking for a bicycle mechanic school in Canada? The Quadra Island Bike School in British Columbia is a Canadian bicycle mechanic school that trains professional bicycle mechanics against the backdrop of the beautiful Quadra Island.

About the Author

Charles Moffat is equal parts bicycle mechanic, cyclist, painter, sculptor, fantasy writer, poet, website designer and pun maker. For more details see charlesmoffat.com.

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