Hands-on workshops. Small groups. Learn to wrench with confidence.

At Essential Cycles, we're passionate about helping riders not only ride, but also understand and maintain their bikes. That's why we offer a variety of bike maintenance courses and bike mechanic classes to help riders of all levels learn the ins and outs of their bikes. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced rider looking to expand your knowledge, our expert instructors are here to guide you through everything from basic maintenance to more complex repairs.

Our comprehensive courses cover a range of topics, from bike cleaning and basic adjustments to wheel building and suspension maintenance. With hands-on instruction and personalized attention, you'll gain the skills and confidence you need to keep your bike in top shape and enjoy a smoother, more efficient ride. Choose Essential Cycles for the best bike maintenance courses and bike mechanic classes around.

In-Depth 5-Week Bike Maintenance Course

Build real shop skills over five focused evenings. We cover safety checks, drivetrain service, brakes, bearings, tubeless, wheel truing basics, and suspension care. You’ll get structured lessons, guided practice, and take-home checklists.

Great for: motivated riders, aspiring shop staff, and anyone who wants confidence to service their own bike.

Format: 5 weeks • small class size • tools provided • bring your bike (optional shop bikes available)

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Not sure where to start? Try one of these.

  • Understanding Your Bicycle

    For The True Beginner:
    No jargon, no judgment. Learn basic bike anatomy (wheel, rotor, drivetrain), what each part does, and simple checks—air, brakes, bolts—that keep you rolling with confidence. Inclusive, beginner-friendly, and a perfect first step.

    Start Here 

  • Tubeless Setup

    More than “just sealant”:
    learn rim taping, valve install, bead seating, sealant volumes, plugging cuts, and how to recover from rotor contamination (incl. resetting brake pads). Deeper than you’d think and wildly useful.

    Go Tubeless 

  • Wheel Building 101 & 102

    Lace → tension → true: Learn lacing patterns, spoke length calc, tensioning, truing, dish, and stress-relief. Build a wheel you can trust. Bring your own parts or we’ll kit you out (WR1 rims, Project 321/OneUp hubs, Sapim spokes—sorted in-shop).

    Build a Wheel 

Bicycle Mechanic Essentials

Start here—hands-on, no jargon. Fix flats, quiet brake rub, dial shifting, clean & lube, and do a pre-ride safety check. Small group, tools provided.

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Explore Bike Maintenance Classes

Learn the skills to keep your bike running sweet—from first flats and brake rubs to drivetrain care, wheel truing, and suspension basics. Our classes are hands-on, taught by working mechanics, and designed for real-world riding in North Vancouver and beyond.

How it works

  1. Choose a class. Dates update live online.
  2. Bring your bike (optional). We supply tools, stands, and consumables.
  3. Wrench with confidence. Learn, practice, and ride away with new skills.

What's Included

  • Tools, workstands, and consumables for demos/practice
  • Instructor support with time for Q&A

Good to Know

  • Bring your bike if you’d like to work on it; shop bikes available when appropriate
  • We do mechanical topics for e-bikes (brakes, wheels, drivetrain, suspension); no motor/electronic
  • Small class sizes for individual help

FAQ

Where are classes held?

At Essential Cycles, 305 Mansfield Place, North Vancouver, BC.

MAP

Do I need experience?

No. Many of our classes are beginner-friendly; 5 week deep-dives suit someone looking for more in depth hands on experience.

What should I bring?

Your bike (optional), clothing you don't mind getting a bit greasy/dirty and a bottle of water.

Can I reschedule?

Please see our cancellation/reschedule policy. We get that life happens and we do our best to accommodate where possible.

Ride With Us, On & Off the Trails

  • Shop Rides & Events

    From regular trail rides to special events like poker rides, scavenger hunts, and fundraisers, we love bringing riders together. These are fun, social ways to explore the trails and connect with our community.

    See Events 

  • Essential Cycles Community

    Join our free Mighty Network — a space to connect with other riders, plan rides, share skills tips, and stay inspired. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, it’s your hub for all things Essential Cycles.

    Join the Community 

  • Newsletter

    Get the inside line on upcoming rides, events, new programs, and exclusive deals — delivered straight to your inbox. It’s the easiest way to stay in the loop and never miss a chance to ride.

    Sign Up Now 

We also do Mountain Bike Coaching

From private lessons to small-group clinics, we help riders build real trail skills—line choice, braking, cornering, drops, and more. Women-led and co-ed options, e-MTB friendly, North Shore & Squamish.

Learn More