In creating workshops that feature manufacture training and business focused conversations, the PBMA embarked on a mission looking towards the future with a goal of identifying whats missing.  The eBike segment of cycling is growing (like it or not) and as mechanics we must be educated on the technology.  While the fundamental elements of the bicycle exist, now we are faced with electronics and power well beyond the typical electronic component we are used to seeing.

PBMA eTech was created with key partners in the electric bicycle community.  The Light Electric Vehicle Association (LEVA) provided us introductions to a number of major manufacturers in the Asian marketplace and we identified Bafang and Phylion as great collaborators in this educational mission.  We hope to grow and add more partners as we grow the available courses that PBMA eTech will offer.

What makes these companies so key in the development of this class?  LEVA has been educating the cycling industry on eBike technology for nearly 10-years.  Phylion Battery is a top producer of Lithium-ion batteries with annual production of 2.5GWh (for reference 1GWh = 1 billion watt hours). Bafang systems are likely found on many eBikes you've already seen in your shop.  With more than 900,000 motors sold annually to more than 350 manufacturers worldwide it's more than likely you'll eventually run into their product.

PBMA eTech will focus on battery technology including tips and tricks you can do in your shop to create customer satisfaction.  PBMA eTech will also focus on various motor drive systems with emphasis on technique and repair.

PBMA eTech is designed to educate technicians on all eBike technology from an unbiased aspect.  Lead instructors from LEVA will be supported by brand representatives to field key questions and provide manufacturer recommended answers.

​After a successful first year, the Professional Bicycle Mechanics Association has revamped its Mechanic of the Week program.  Mechanic Monday (#mechanicmonday) will feature a randomly chosen nominated mechanic each Monday with public voting on a Mechanic of the Year taking place over 14 days in January of 2019. 
 
Abbey Bike Tools is returning to sponsor the competition.  In addition to the grand prize package, Abbey Bike Tools will be supplying each week’s mechanic a co-branded custom Abbey Stu Stick.  Jason Quade, the founder of Abbey Bike Tools, said, "We are focused on building professional quality tools for mechanics across the globe. The PBMA is raising the bar for those technicians and we whole heartedly support that cause."
 
The PBMA has also bolstered the program with media outlet CyclingIndustry.News and PeopleforBikes helping to identify and promote the value of the Professional Bicycle Mechanic©.
 
The winner of the Mechanic Monday competition in 2018 will receive an all expense paid trip to the 2019 North American Handmade Bicycle Show plus an exclusive prize package from Abbey Bike Tools and a year’s subscription the print edition of CyclingIndustry.News.
 
“Bike mechanics are among the most influential people involved in helping riders, and future riders, make great decisions about what they need, as well as providing perspective on what the rider thinks they want. PeopleForBikes applauds the Professional Bicycle Mechanics Association for creating a program to celebrate and promote the best of the best among the industry’s awesome community of bicycle mechanics,” said Charlie Cooper, Vice President of Membership and Development of PeopleforBikes.
 
“CyclingIndustry.News has been keen to bring to the industry discussion table the voice of the mechanic and so partnering with this great initiative to further highlight the great work of those on the frontline of the bike industry is a natural fit. We look forward to generating inspiring content alongside the PBMA, Abbey Bike Tools and PeopleForBikes to amplify the voice of those working tirelessly to raise the standards in our trade and keep our customers rolling,” said Mark Sutton, Editor at CyclingIndustry.News.
 
James Stanfill, President of the PBMA, said “Last year’s Mechanic of the Week program generated a ton of interest throughout 2017, culminating in an amazing number of people taking part in the pre-Interbike voting period for the coveted Mechanic of the Year. Winner Josh Boggs received 587 of the 4500+ votes and it wasn’t a runaway competition!  Utilizing social media to spread the word about voting we reached around 40,000 people in a very short period of time.  We’re hoping with Abbey Bike Tools, CyclingIndustry.News and PeopleforBikes we can further that awareness for mechanics everywhere.”
 
To nominate your favorite mechanic head to Mechanic Monday.
 
PeopleforBikes gets more people riding bikes more often and makes bicycling better for everyone across the U.S., for more information please visit their website www.PeopleforBikes.org
 
The Professional Bicycle Mechanics Association is dedicated to the Promotion, Advocacy and Development of the Professional Bicycle Mechanic©, for more information please visit www.ProBMA.org
 
More information about Abbey Bike Tools can be found at www.AbbeyBikeTools.com
 
Keep track of all the latest news by visiting www.CyclingIndustry.News today!

My days presently are split up three ways really.  The PBMA is a huge priority so I spend a great deal of time fielding phone calls, firing off emails, building the website and working towards driving the organization into the future.  Just to top all that off you can find me working at races throughout the year as a team mechanic or driving and jumping out of cars providing neutral service.

I got into cycling when I was 15.  I haven't really looked back since then.  I've raced competitively on and off-road.  I've been in and out of shops since 1991.  I've spent time working for Cannondale, USA Cycling and Specialized.  I've done contract work for SRAM, Mavic and others.  I've spent plenty of time on the road working for teams like Liquigas, Twenty16, Elita Pro, Webcor, Drapac the US and Canadian National teams as well as world neutral support at more races than I can actually remember.  I spent about 6 years working outside the cycling industry with a fortune 500 company, I gained and entire new set of skills outside our industry.

The PBMA began as a conversation between myself and a handful of others, some of whom are on the Board of Directors and some who were simply interested in professionalizing our craft.  Having been in the trenches (of all varieties) for many years I feel very strongly about mechanics and service.  I know there are challenges ahead and I am personally prepared to fight them on behalf of the PBMA.  For service the future is very bright.  We as technicians have the opportunity to help the future of the cycling industry by bolstering our personal skills tool box.