Cycle repair classes within 10 miles of Yateley, Hampshire

[bigblip]

Hi,

Brand new forum member here. I am a 'just a bit beyond beginner' cyclist, riding a hybrid Boardman, with which I'm very pleased. Where I am very naive, though, is in the field of cycle repairs and maintenance, illustrated by the fact that I changed my first inner tube just a few weeks ago (at age 51!). Last weekend I completed the coast to coast along the Hadrian's Cycleway - my first 'proper' challenge. A brilliant experience, except that on my very first pedal stroke my chain broke! I would have given up and looked for a bike shop (the nearest was in Carlisle) but a friend did an on the spot repair which lasted the whole way to Tynemouth.

It got me thinking that I must learn about how to do such repairs myself, and also how to keep my bike properly maintained, cleaned and adjusted.

I have a book on the subject, but I was wondering if anyone is aware of any evening courses where I could get some hands on experience with a suitably skilled person watching me. I live in Yateley in Hampshire, so ideally the courses would be within, say, ten miles, so I can ride there and back.

Any ideas? A Google search shows nothing in my immediate vicinity.

All advice appreciated. Thanks.

Ian . . .

 

[Supersuperleeds]

Can't help with the course but there are loads of videos on youtube that you can use to teach yourself if you cannot find a suitable course


Also whenever you come across a specific task that you want to undertake there are many people on here who will be willing to talk you through it.

 

[bigblip]

Thanks supersuperleeds. Yep, it was YouTube that guided me through the tube change! The forum looks like a great place for advice and I have no doubt I'll pop in regularly. Seems to be less 'bike-snobby' than other places I've lurked. Cheers.

 

[jefmcg]

Not going to the level you want, but might get you started

http://www.evanscycles.com/servicing/bike-maintenance-classes

edit: oops, wrong spelling of Yateley

 

[bigblip]

Actually, that's just the sort of starter I'm looking for! Many thanks :-)

 

[HLaB]

Is there a Ediburgh Bicycle Co Operative near you ? they do maintenance classes.

 

[bigblip]

Thanks for the suggestion - doesn't look there's one anywhere near me though :-(

 

[spooks]

Might be a bit far for you but if you do the silver course then there's a residential option.
http://www3.hants.gov.uk/calshot/bike_maintenance.htm

 

[vickster]

Thanks for the suggestion - doesn't look there's one anywhere near me though :-(

Why not ask your LBS if there is anywhere or even if they would be prepared to help you, or can suggest where to go