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At 3bikes, we like to ask ourselves existential questions about cycling. So we conducted a real-world test: we surveyed 10 cyclists in a peloton about their mechanical skills. Repairing a flat tire? Ok. Adjusting a derailleur? That’s already getting complicated. Changing a bottom bracket shell? Awkward silence. Unsurprisingly, our small field study reveals what we already suspected: bike mechanics are not going to be out of work anytime soon. And that’s good news, because this profession is much more than just technical know-how. We’ll explain why.
By Jeff Tatard – Photos: depositphotos.com / DR
In-house statistics, but far from outlandish
So, what do the numbers say?
- 3 out of 10 know how to perform basic operations: repair a flat tire, clean and lubricate their chain, or even adjust their brakes.
- 4 have some notions but prefer to avoid touching critical adjustments, “for fear of making the situation worse”.
- 3 shamelessly admit that they are totally dependent on their bike shop and have never even thought of inflating their tires themselves.
Of course, this is just a mini-survey on a small sample, but let’s be honest: it is probably very representative of the cycling population in France.
The observation is simple: bike mechanics is not just a question of intelligence or manual dexterity. It’s also a mental load that many prefer to avoid.
Why mechanics are irreplaceable
We wanted to dig a little deeper, so we asked three experts in the field: Dany Maffeis and Fred Ramon from Matériel Vélo, as well as Michael Guillermet from Mohawks Cycles.
And they are unanimous: no, cyclists are not suddenly all going to become mechanically autonomous.
Dany Maffeis puts it very well: “Most cyclists prefer to ride rather than spend time tinkering. They want a bike that works perfectly, not to learn to be mechanics.”
In other words, even those who have the skills don’t necessarily take the time to use them.
And then there’s also a psychological phenomenon. Fred Ramon explains it to us with a perfect analogy: “A good mechanic is like a good family doctor. You want someone you trust, who knows your bike, who follows it over time, and who saves you from unnecessary hassles.”
Because yes, mechanics is not just a question of know-how. It’s also expertise, experience, and often an outside perspective that allows for anticipating breakdowns before they become serious problems.
Finally, there’s a crucial point that Michael Guillermet adds: “Today, with electronics and hydraulic systems, bike mechanics is becoming increasingly technical. Between wireless transmissions, integrated power meters, and disc brakes to bleed, it’s no longer just a quick turn of an Allen key and you’re good to go!”
Mental load: a barrier to mechanical autonomy
Learning to adjust a derailleur, change a cassette, or bleed hydraulic brakes is not insurmountable. But it requires time, attention, and above all, patience.
And that’s where the problem lies: mental load.
Between work, family, training, and recovery, most cyclists prefer to invest their energy elsewhere than in mechanics. It’s a bit like cooking: everyone can learn to make a good dish, but when you can go to a restaurant and be sure it will be good, why complicate your life?
Some will say that artificial intelligence will eventually replace mechanics. But honestly, do you see yourself trusting a chatbot to explain why your Di2 transmission is making a suspicious noise? Not us.
Moral of the story: don’t feel guilty, entrust your bike to a pro!
So yes, knowing how to repair a flat tire and perform basic maintenance is good. But wanting to master everything is not an obligation. Trusting a good mechanic ensures that your bike always rides perfectly and avoids unnecessary headaches.
And let’s face it: a well-adjusted bike, that shifts gears like butter and brakes perfectly, is priceless. So, to the mechanics reading this: rest assured, you still have bright days ahead!
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