With cycling gaining ground as a regular mode of transportation, flat tires and broken chains are on the up, too. Which creates an opportunity for bike-loving entrepreneurs: mobile bike repair shops.
In the Netherlands, for example, we've spotted companies like Fix Fiets and Bikemobiel, both of which do house calls in vans or trucks outfitted as mobile workshops. Service is even more mobile (and emission-free) in Cologne and Berlin, where stranded cyclists can call a 'Radambulanz'—a cycling mechanic with a small trailer containing tools and spare parts for fixing flat tires and performing other common repairs.
While some mobile repair services tack on a small trip charge for coming to a customer's home or workplace, rates are generally comparable to those charged by brick and mortar bike shops. And although they've been popping up in Europe over the past few years, mobile services are far from commonplace. Time to launch a well-branded Geek Squad of bike fixers? (Related: Vending machines for bicycle parts — In the US, the AAA will be offering roadside assistance for cyclists in Oregon and Idaho.)
Website: www.fixfiets.nl — www.bikemobiel.nl — www.fahrradambulanz.com — www.radambulanz.de
Spotted by: Martina Meng — Raymond Kollau — Judy McRae
I think Monty Python was way ahead of its time with "Bicycle Repairman" who went around looking like Superman until a bike needed to be fixed.
My wife, Teresa, and I have been teaching bike mechanics since 1991.
Over the past ten years or so, many have (at our recommendation)gone into mobile repairs. All from making a living to becoming very successful.
We assist with all info required for setting up, suppliers, tools, accounts,etc.
So yes - if you want a good living - go for 'mobile' repairs.
Regards and respects to all - Alf Webb
I agree with Alf, I am past student of his teachings. Of which a couple of us have already embarked on the mobile bicycle repairs business model. It is a good idea and is totally set up around the customer. Only problem is, from my experience, the public are slow to recieve businesses such as ours as we dont have a shop frontage.
All they need to do is have faith and enjoy the benefits of this service.
Kind Ragards
Graham
I agree with the comments Alf has made. I too am involved with training bike mechanics from the general public to technical training for professional mechanics as part of the Cytech range of qualifications.
I think it's a great idea to take the repair facility to the customer and we have worked with many new start-ups not only to provide the technical training but with all aspects of the the business.
An interesting article but not as new or radical it suggested!
Perhaps we could promote the guys who are doing it in the UK, come on chaps, get yourself a plug!
Matt
http://www.mobilecycleservice.co.uk/