Bikes are machines…incredible machines and they deserve the right care and attention. Regular maintenance will help keep them running smoothly and reduce wear and tear. This, in turn, can help you save money in the long run and avoid huge expenses from repairing old or worn out components on your bikes.

In the day to day business of bike repair or maintenance, some bike shops carry out their duties very well, while others can be very unprofessional. To find out why some bike shops perform better than others and the links between them, we did a little study in New York City on what to expect when you visit a bike shop for repairs. We found out that road bikers, mountain bikers, and bikers generally are passionate about their bikes and the repair shops they use.

How many times should I repair my bike?

The frequency with which you need to repair your bike depends entirely on how often you ride. For a person who rides three times a week during the summer months, a general service of once or twice a year should suffice. In all kinds of conditions, visiting the repair shop four times a year for servicing will help keep your bike at the best condition. That said, some people choose a yearly tune-up.

But what makes a good bike shop and what do you expect when you visit a bike shop? Below are some findings:

Convenience

The bike shops that are close to home are essential for the comfort of the rider. Everyone has been in a situation where they need a repair quick. Thus, even if a store is not near home or at work, it is best that the store is on a route that the cyclist often visits.

An Experienced and Competent Team

Usually, bike riders want the shop staff to be friendly, informed and helpful. This means providing objective information to the riders, taking care of riders’ preferences, and being able to separate the two. When a client searches for a bike accessory, the staff should be able to describe the features and benefits of each product thoroughly. Bike fitting is definitely a science, and a good team will be able to get you an exact fit.

Good Mechanics

Many bike riders told me that they would do everything possible to work with a good mechanic. When a mountain biker or a road biker takes his bike to the store, he wants to trust the person who works on his angel. For many bikers, the choice of bike store has to do with the mechanic. Bike riders will even travel to a store just because a specific mechanic works there.

Many bikers have commented that poor mechanical work means they will not return to the store. For other riders, it is essential to observe the maintenance area. A carefree and disorganized shop is associated with sloppy jobs.

Fast Repair Speed

Usually, bike riders want the shop staff to be friendly, informed and helpful. This means providing objective information to the riders, taking care of riders’ preferences, and being able to separate the two. When a client searches for a bike accessory, the staff should be able to describe the features and benefits of each product thoroughly. Bike fitting is definitely a science, and a good team will be able to get you an exact fit.