BLOOMINGTON, MN (BRAIN)–Erik’s Bike Shop sent 13 of its service managers to participate in the USA Cycling Bill Woodul Race Mechanics Training Clinic in Colorado Springs, which took place January 10-13, and four of them earned top scores.
Fifty-five mechanics came from all over the United States to take advantage of the only instructional seminar of its kind in the world. Three full days of training offered hands on preparation in various aspects of race mechanics and support. Past graduates of the program have gone on to work for teams all over the world.
“This clinic teaches you all the things you have to do that people don’t often consider,” said former graduate turned long-time instructor Dave Arnauckas of Shimano. “This camp is so multi-faceted and offers insight you could seldom get anywhere else.”
Industry experts from various parts of the racing community, including companies such as Mavic, SRAM, FSA, Park Tool and Shimano taught sessions ranging from fork and shock fundamentals, to wheel change and management to DOT compliance.
"Erik’s Bike Shop is pleased to support and train our employees through USA Cycling’s professional designation and training program," said Erik Saltvold, chief executive officer and founder of Erik’s Bike Shop. "This clinic helps to broaden the mechanical skills and techniques of our mechanics and most importantly, helps ensure we provide the highest levels of customer service."
Thirteen Erik’s Bike Shop Mechanics completed the course and earned the privilege to carry a USA Cycling mechanic’s license. Four of them took the top scores for the class.
“The three-day intense format encouraged teamwork and solid team dynamics,” said Brad Cole, Erik’s Bike Shop’s service supervisor and the top scorer at the Clinic. “The numerous individual presentations were passion driven and gave our staff a renewed since of pride in our skills as professional bicycle mechanics. We are all encouraged to share that passion and commitment with our staff and all levels of athletes we serve daily.”
Erik’s Bike Shop now has thirteen certified and qualified service managers/mechanics ready to do technical support (neutral or team) at local road, criterium, mountain, BMX, cyclocross races.
