Foundation Bicycle Mechanics

A practical entry-level route covering essential bicycle repair and maintenance skills. Suitable for beginners with no prior experience in bicycle mechanics.

For: School leavers, career changers, and anyone new to bicycle mechanics

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Safety & Workspace

Learn to set up a safe and organised workshop. Understand the tools needed for bicycle repair.

Set up a safe bicycle workshop

Prepare a clean, organised and safe workspace before starting any bicycle repair.

0.25h5 steps

Tyre & Tube Repairs

Master the most common bicycle repair task. Repair punctures and replace tyres confidently and quickly.

Repair a punctured inner tube

Find the hole in a bicycle inner tube and apply a vulcanising patch to repair it.

0.5h12 steps

Replace a bicycle tyre

Remove a worn or damaged bicycle tyre and fit a new one correctly.

0.5h7 steps

Brake Systems

Inspect, adjust and replace rim brake components. Understand the principles of safe braking.

Adjust rim brakes

Set correct brake pad position, cable tension and lever travel on rim brakes.

1h8 steps

Replace worn brake pads

Remove worn bicycle brake pads and fit new ones in the correct position.

0.5h6 steps

Drivetrain Maintenance

Keep chains, cassettes and derailleurs clean and working. Perform basic gear adjustments.

Clean and lubricate the chain

Remove dirt and old lubricant from the chain, then apply fresh lubricant correctly.

0.25h7 steps