Bicycle maintenance

What will the course Cover?

This course covers key components of your bicycle and how to maintain them in good working order - Safety inspection, Adjustment and replacing of brakes, cables and pads; adjustment and fitting of new cables and fine tuning of front and rear gear mechanisms; servicing and adjustment of headset; adjustment and maintenance of hubs; assessing wheel faults, truing of slightly buckled wheels while in the frame plus recommendation for routine servicing. NB: Hydraulic brake servicing is not covered in this course.

Who is this course for?

All bicycle users or anyone who wants to learn more about bicycles, how they work and how to maintain and use them in a safe condition.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

All you need to start this course is a keen interest in bicycles plus some basic knowledge such as puncture repairs, wheel removal & refitting and handlebar adjustment is all you need to make the most of this level 2 course.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

Carry out adjustments, maintenance and assessment of wheel faults as stated.

How is the course organised?

The course is delivered in 2 weekly sessions, or as an intensive one day session (usually on Saturdays), both of which include a mixture of classroom based theory and workshop based demonstration and practical activities carried out on individual machines.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

Carry out any homework tasks given and practice what you cover in class.

How will my progress be assessed?

Your progress will be assessed through practical workshop tasks, Q & A, observation, tutor feedback and self-assessment.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

You can explore the possibilities of becoming a cycle leader, or progress onto the bicycle maintenance qualifications available. Please ask your tutor for details.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

Your own bicycle to work on is preferable but not essential. Please note: Any bicycles brought onto the premises and/or worked on in class are done so at the owners’ own risk. Bring your puncture repair kit, spare inner tube, if possible rim tape, oil and any tools you would like to learn how to use. Also bring new brake blocks if you bike needs them - there will be a chance to fit them. Other replacement parts as required. Older clothes (overalls preferably). Stout shoes. (please note: No open toe shoes will be allowed) A notepad and pen may be helpful.

What support is available?

You may wish to get additional help and guidance offered through the free Study Support Sessions at the Macbeth Centre. At these sessions you can access the internet, work on and print homework and assignments for your course, research, access a range of software, improve your typing and practice/review what you have covered in class. You will need to book a place on these sessions – ask your tutor how. Help with literacy or numeracy is available through the basic education programme and the ESOL programme offers help for speakers of other languages. Additional support can be provided for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. If you have a disability and feel you need support to get the best from your course you can contact Sean Buckley (sean.buckley@lbhf.gov.uk) to have a confidential discussion on how best we can support your learning. The Learner Support Fund is a discretionary scheme, funded by the Skills Funding Agency, to assist learners who may be experiencing difficulties in paying for essential equipment/materials, travel costs, childcare, registration fees and other necessary expenses. These funds are only available to learners studying towards an approved qualification and who are on a low household income of under £20,000. Parental income will not be taken into consideration but the income of any spouse or partner will. Proof of low income will be required. Please discuss this with your tutor at interview or enquire at reception for full details of these funds. Details of all available support can be found on our website (hfals.co.uk), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or reception staff.