The man responsible for keeping four-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy’s wheels turning in Beijing will be giving cyclists a chance to learn how to keep their bikes fit to ride.

Following a successful pilot in 2010, British Cycling has teamed up with former head mechanic Spike Taylor, once described by Total Bike Maintenance and Repair magazine as ‘the world’s best bike mechanic’, and Pro Tool School to run a series of workshops designed to help cyclists get the skills and build the confidence to maintain a bike on their own.  

Starting in Preston on June 3, workshops will roll-out across 17 cities, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bath, Ipswich, Glasgow and Newport.

Beginner half-day workshops (£45 for non-members, £40.50 for British Cycling members) are aimed at new cyclists with little or no experience in bike maintenance and will offer a gentle introduction to bike anatomy, riding position, puncture repair, brake and gear maintenance as well as oiling, cleaning and component care.

More experienced cyclists can join an advanced workshop (£125 for non-members, £112.50 for British Cycling members), which will start for the first time in November. With a chance to learn more technical tips and techniques for keeping a bike running smoothly, the workshop will challenge you to build a bike with Taylor.

“These workshops are designed to teach anyone who rides a bike some easy tricks and techniques and give them the confidence to do the job themselves, saving them time and money,” said Taylor.

“Even the athletes would admit that popping a puncture can be pretty daunting for anyone starting out, but I urge any cyclist to come and see there’s nothing difficult about basic bike maintenance and repair.”

Workshops, open to cyclists of all ages and abilities, are designed to be fun and hands-on, while bikes and tools are provided.

Refreshments are also included and anyone who registers for a workshop will automatically receive British Cycling Ride membership worth £24 free of charge.

To book your place and find a workshop near you visit www.britishcycling.org.uk or www.goskyride.com or contact British Cycling on 0161 274 2049.