Have any TE'ers ever been interested in taking a United Bicycle Institute or Barnett Bicycle Institute maintenance course but been put off by the travel, lodging, and food expense plus cost of tuition? I've been there and decided to contact a local Master Mechanic / Wheel Builder who has agreed to hold a bicycle maintenance course comparable to what's taught at the United Bicycle Institute here in Alexandria. It would consist of 40 hrs. of instruction taught on Sunday mornings, starting January 9 for 5 to 6 hrs. each week. The topics to be covered include the following:

Bike Fit and Position
Bottom Bracket and Crankset Overhaul/Replacement
Brake System Adjustment and Maintenance
Cable and Housing Replacement and Maintenance
Derailleur System Adjustment and Maintenance
Emergency Roadside Repair
Flat Repair, Tire and Tube Design
Headset Overhaul/Replacement
Hub Overhaul and Adjustment
Pedal Replacement
Replacing Broken Spokes
Stem and Handlebars
Wheel Truing
Chain Repair

We'd bring our bike and do the hands-on work to fully understand the procedures and proper use of the tools while tearing down and replacing parts on our 'project bike'. Tools would be sold at a discount, if interested in purchasing them.

Cost for this course would be in the range of $600. It'd be a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in gaining the knowledge and skillset to maintain and repair their own fleet of bikes. Please let me know by PM if you have interest. Currently there are two commitments for the course.