2026 Start a bike business with good intentions

We are here for greater things. Cycling is not about money, it’s having a proper interest in life. Being fixated on making wealth is what will kill your bike business fast.

Let's pedal in...

Start Your Own Bike Business with Cycle Tech UK

Join a network that offers more than just a starting point. With Cycle Tech UK, you gain access to a wealth of resources, trusted industry contacts, and a supportive community of like-minded professionals. Learn how to run your business efficiently — without cutting corners — while upholding the values and principles that set our network apart. Turn your passion into a sustainable business — with the guidance and backing of those who’ve done it before.

The Best Mechanics Is Not Only About Fixing Bikes. It’s About How You Treat Customers

At Cycle Tech UK, we believe true success in bicycle mechanics goes beyond technical ability. It’s about building trust, showing empathy, and creating a positive customer experience. How you make a customer feel often matters more than the repair itself.

Human behavior is driven by connection, trust, and perceived value — and the most effective mechanics understand this intuitively. They listen, communicate clearly, and follow through on their promises. These qualities turn a one-time customer into a loyal advocate.

Our mission is grounded in the intention to give back — to help people build honest, purpose-driven livelihoods by doing what they love. We’re looking for genuine individuals with a passion for bicycles and for people.

At Cycle Tech UK, you’ll gain more than practical skills. You’ll learn how to connect with customers on a personal level, build a reputable business, and create real, lasting value — for yourself and your community.

We don’t just teach you how to fix bikes. We help you build a business rooted in trust,

integrity, and human connection.

2025

The year had felt like a step back in time. Mechanics aren’t just fixing bikes; they’re delivering true value and forming meaningful connections. The positive feedback from customers reignites the purpose behind the work—restoring a sense of pride and job satisfaction that often feels lost in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world.

Simon Hiley

✩✩✩✩✩ Google Review

"Tracey collected my bike as planned just before I went on holiday. Whilst I was away he

communicated with me and kept me up to date, his communication throughout was brilliant.

He returned my bike today which I didn’t recognise, it looked brand new. He has done a

fantastic job, and is an all round good honest bloke, would highly recommend. 👏👍"

Tracey - Cycle Tech Hinckley & South Leicester

In a time when the market is flooded with corporate investment, technology, and AI promising to “make your life easier,” it’s easy to feel disconnected—like something essential is missing. Yet, 2025 has shown me a powerful truth: people crave

authenticity. Customers deeply appreciate someone real, someone who genuinely cares - It reminded me why I began Cycle Tech UK

Being part of a lifestyle business that gives more than it takes, helps others, and grows with honesty feels like a rare privilege. It reminds us that real progress isn’t just about technology—it’s about the human touch, the relationships we build, and the pride we take in what we do.

Make choices accordingly. To build your lifestyle business you personality enjoy and not survive from a delusion.

Balanced living - Live a work lifestyle to your free will. Not a lifestyle, later you think you will enjoy it, or live someone else’s lifestyle, follow someone else’s dream or do a job you don’t like for money. Any great work requires passion, learning and ongoing work on yourself.

Time poor consumer driven world

A negative is a huge positive. Once you see how the current issues imposed on business are playing out. Accepting retail is direct to the consumer, and high streets are not being used like in the past, you can make a big change, by focusing on your business, for today and the future.

The associated costs of starting and running a bike business?

From the rat race to pursuit a lifestyle business

If you are new to working for yourself, there is a lot to unpack. The good thing is that someone who has been there and helped a large number of mechanics can guide you each step. Helping you be organised, you stay in control and understand where to spend your initial investment, where to place your time and what not to spend money on.

Cycle Tech UK provides the tools and opportunities — it’s a platform for growth, not a fixed model.

As the founder, I don’t act as the controller of CTUK. What I value most is that others can take what I’ve created and build upon it in their own way — creating something new and unique.

CTUK is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s designed to support individuals with their own vision and personality. My role is to step in where needed, offering guidance and support to help refine and strengthen their direction.

Building a Business That Lasts: Why Fixing Bikes Is More Than Just a Job

Investing in your own business isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a commitment to building a meaningful life. When you choose to work with your hands, fix things, and solve real problems, you’re not just earning a living—you’re contributing to something larger. Fixing bikes, for example, is deeply satisfying work. There’s a unique reward in taking something broken and making it whole again, knowing that someone is going to ride away with a smile because of your craft.

Starting an independent bike repair business is more than just launching a venture—it’s creating a lifestyle. You’re not punching a clock. You’re shaping your days around the rhythm of repairs, customer relationships, and continuous learning. It’s work, yes, but it’s also purpose.

From a psychological perspective, meaningful work is one of the key pillars of long-term happiness. When you engage in tasks that have visible outcomes—like a fully restored bike—you tap into a deep sense of competence and impact. It’s the kind of work that fosters flow: time disappears, focus intensifies, and satisfaction rises.

I still have the first toolkit my Dad bought for me back in the 1980s. That toolkit isn’t just a set of wrenches and screwdrivers—it’s a symbol of persistence, pride, and the kind of quiet craftsmanship that builds trust over decades. Having the right tools, the technical knowledge, and knowing where to source quality parts—these aren’t just operational necessities. They’re the foundation for longevity in business. If you’re thinking about starting your own hands-on business, remember: you’re not

just setting up a shop. You’re building a way of life. One that can bring you pride, purpose, and a deep connection to your work—year after year.

Accounts and Bookkeeping: Choosing Sole Trader or Limited Company

When starting your own bike business, one of the first financial decisions you’ll need to make is whether to operate as a sole trader or set up a limited company. The right choice depends on your individual circumstances, including how you plan to operate and your long-term business goals. Many entrepreneurs choose their structure based on potential tax advantages and liability considerations. It’s strongly recommended to consult with an accountant or financial advisor to determine the best fit for your situation.

In our package, when joining Cycle Tech UK, , we’ll also cover accounting software options and low-cost business bank accounts that can help streamline your bookkeeping—whether you go it alone or form a company.

Training and Qualifications

Many people begin by focusing on training and obtaining certificates before launching their bike business. While formal qualifications aren’t required to get insurance cover, gaining certification early on can be a great confidence booster—and a practical way to apply what you’ve learned while it’s still fresh.

If you already have the skills, you may be eligible for a one-day assessment to earn a Level 2 certificate. There are many training providers to choose from. At Cycle Tech UK, we’ve partnered with industry-leading schools that teach the essential skills we believe are crucial for starting a successful business. Details on recommended training providers are available when you register your interest.

As with any investment, it’s important to do your own research. Read reviews, and don’t hesitate to ask key questions:

• How many students are in each class?
• Is there a teaching assistant when there are more than five students?
• Will the assessment be thorough and the certificates officially recognised by a governing body?

Taking the time to choose the right training provider can make a big difference to your confidence and credibility when launching your business.

Cost and Quality of Training

Training courses can be a significant investment, and in some cases, additional costs such as travel and accommodation may also be required. While there are online training options available, it’s important to choose wisely.

At Cycle Tech UK, we’ve spoken with many individuals who have attended various training schools, and unfortunately, some have expressed disappointment with their experience. Common concerns include overcrowded classes, limited access to tools, and not gaining the hands-on skills needed to feel confident launching their business. This can lead to a sense that the training didn’t deliver good value for the money spent.

Training vs. Real-World Experience

While a two-week training course can provide a solid foundation, it’s important to understand that it doesn’t equate to real-world experience—and it doesn’t automatically lead to higher pay for those seeking employment in the industry.

Our recommended training school partners stand out by offering more practical, business-focused support than many others. From my own experience, I often work with trainees after their course, spending a day or two covering essential aspects that weren’t included—especially around setting up and running the business itself.

Those who take this extra step tend to be more hands-on, better prepared, and far more confident when it comes to starting their own bike repair business.

People often ask me: “How did you learn to do that?”

By giving it a go. You don’t learn by waiting — you learn by doing.

Working with your hands is the new economy - It’s become a scarcity.

Advanced Training and e-Bike Support

Cycle Tech UK also provides valuable guidance on further training—particularly in the fast-growing e-Bike sector. You’ll have access to information on manufacturer-led online training, which can be followed by in-house sessions to deepen your product knowledge and stay up to date with the latest technology.

We’ve also enhanced the traditional M-Check specifically for e-Bikes and partnered with leading engineers specialising in e-motor diagnostics, fault-finding, repairs, and motor upgrades. As part of this, Cycle Tech UK offers a bespoke, detailed inspection service covering the motor and all associated components. This proactive approach helps identify worn or stressed parts before they lead to breakdowns.

E-Bikes are specialist machines and require earlier, more frequent inspections in addition to regular servicing. Understanding these needs not only improves safety and performance—it also sets your service apart in a competitive and growing market.

All of this valuable information is shared with and actively encouraged among our members, helping them stay ahead of industry trends and deliver exceptional service  to their customers....

Further development - Humanistic Courses and Business Support

Cycle Tech UK also offers exclusive in-house training for our members, with a focus on practical skills and human-centered business development. The delivery of Cycle Tech UK provides the structure and support needed to build confidence and operate as a trusted, independent business—backed by nationwide expertise.

We’re committed to setting the standard for after-sales service, empowering mechanics with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed. By simplifying processes and focusing on real value, we help our members exceed customer expectations and grow sustainable, reputable businesses within the cycling trade.

Mechanics Thrive on Challenge — Not Convenience

For bicycle mechanics, the true reward isn’t just in ticking off another service — it’s in the challenge. Diagnosing an elusive noise, bringing a neglected drivetrain back to life, or fixing what others couldn’t — that’s where the job gets interesting. It’s where skill meets satisfaction.

At Cycle Tech UK, we understand what mechanics are up against — and we’re here to help. Whether you need a quick coffee chat to talk things through, business advice, or full technical backup, you’re not on your own. We’re committed to supporting independent mechanics who want to do things right — not just quick.

Tools: Invest Wisely

When it comes to tools, avoid going cheap—but there’s also no need to buy everything at once. You’ll be making your living from a well-organised set of high-quality, purpose-built bike tools, so it’s important to invest in the right equipment from the start.

As part of the Cycle Tech UK membership package, we provide a carefully curated list of essential tools tailored to your individual setup, along with access to trade accounts and storage solutions. Members also benefit from exclusive discounts, which may vary depending on the distributor and time of year.

This approach ensures you’re equipped with the right tools to work efficiently and professionally—without overspending or wasting time on trial and error.

Stock

Cycle Tech UK provides members with detailed information on trade distributors and a recommended stock list tailored to your needs. Before you start, we’ll discuss your business setup in depth and offer tailored suggestions to help you plan your inventory for a successful first year of trading.

Insurance

Specialist insurance is available tailored to mobile workshops, home-based businesses, and coverage for e-Bikes—including fitting conversion kits. Cycle Tech UK collaborates with three trusted insurance providers, each offering different terms and conditions to suit a variety of needs.

It’s important to be aware of the risks involved, particularly with lower-quality e-Bikes and battery repairs, where safety and liability concerns can be higher. Choosing the right insurance coverage is essential to protect your business and give you peace of mind.

Set-Up

Flexibility is key when it comes to running your bike business, and depending on circumstances we often recommend starting part-time to ease into it. Many successful setups combine mobile servicing with a home workshop, offering convenient collect-and-return services—making it an ideal lifestyle business.

In the past, we encouraged investing in the largest van you could afford. While that still works for some, today the best choice depends largely on your location and the range of services you plan to offer. Having access to a large, secure workshop as a base can provide greater flexibility, reduce the need to stock excessive parts on the move, and help keep both your initial outlay and ongoing expenses to a minimum.

Marketing. Get Found – Be Seen Where It Matters

As a mobile service, you’re already out in the community – now it’s time to make sure people can find you. In today’s world, customers turn to Google and social media to find local services. And nothing beats word of mouth for building trust and driving new business.

By joining Cycle Tech UK, your business gets listed on our website, eliminating the need to spend time and money setting up your own online presence. Plus, we share a proven low-cost, high-impact strategy with all our members to boost visibility and attract customers – without breaking the bank.

Let us help you get noticed and grow your business, faster.

Key Considerations for Your Business Plan

When planning your mobile bike repair business, it’s important to think beyond just

the tools. Here are some essential questions to ask — and areas where we can help

guide you:

• Setup and Running Costs – What will you need to get started, and what are your monthly operating expenses?
• Stock and Tools – Which parts and tools are essential from day one, and what can wait?
• Networking and Trade Contacts – Who should you connect with in the industry? Building relationships with suppliers, local businesses, and the cycling community is key.
• Van Size and Setup – What type of van works best for your needs, and how should it be fitted out for efficiency and professionalism?
• Location Viability – Is your area right for a bike business? We can help you assess local demand, competition, and opportunities.

These are just a few of the many things to include in your business plan. If you’re unsure where to start, Cycle Tech UK is here to support you with experience, advice, and a network that’s helped many mobile mechanics get on the road successfully.

Expanding Our Mobile and Flexible Concept—Coming Soon... Growing our concept.

No need for a physical shop or hours spent driving around. Join us and be part of the most innovative, mechanic-friendly approach to running your bike business—designed to support both you and your customers every step of the way.

Your mobile bike business starts here.

Don’t wait for the right moment — create it. Register your interest now.