As a Social Enterprise, Drosi Bikes exists to get you cycling. Why? Because we genuinely believe that bikes are the answer to many of life’s problems! Ok, that might be a bit idealistic, but cycling does offer a low impact, affordable means of transport which is good for your health (physical and mental) and good for the environment. But we also know that barriers like repair costs and confidence can hold people back. That’s why we offer a variety of hands-on training to help you gain essential bike maintenance skills, saving you money and giving you the confidence to fix emergency repairs when you’re out riding.
Our training workshops (many of which are free to attend) are led by qualified mechanics and are designed for all skill levels in a safe, friendly and non-judgemental space. What’s more, we have a fully kitted out workshop at your disposal, with all the tools and equipment you’ll need to tackle most jobs (oh and by the way, we also have a space in the workshop which is open for anyone to use, whenever the workshop is open) 
With all the training options available, we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best workshop for your needs and skill levels.
Introduction to Bike Maintenance – Level 1
What: a 3-hour introduction into bike maintenance. Participants will work in small groups to understand key components of your bike and how to safety check and maintain them. The workshop will focus on basic repairs and adjustments to help keep you cycling, such as puncture repairs and adjusting riding positions for comfort. We’ll also re-cap standard tools and lubricants needed to help maintain your bike (and which ones you can live without!). Each participant will have access to their own work stand and tools, for maximum hands-on experience. We encourage you to bring your own bike to work on so you can leave knowing it’s in top condition. Bikes are available if this is an issue.
When: running periodically throughout the year, usually Feb and Sept. Level 1 runs during a morning session from 9:00 – 12:00
Where: Drosi Bikes Community Workshop
For Who: this course is designed for complete beginners or those with some rusty knowledge and open to anyone aged 18 and over.
Pre-Book? Yes – places are restricted to 3 per session and can be booked via our Eventbrite page. Please note, we require a minimum of 2 attendees to run these workshops. If we are unable to reach our minimum number we will sadly have to cancel. In which case, you will be fully refunded and we will do our best to reschedule for a future date.
Cost: £45 per participant
Introduction to Bike Maintenance – Level 2
What: a 3-hour bike maintenance workshop which looks to build on the skills covered in our Level 1 course. Participants will work in small groups to gain a detailed appreciation of brakes and gears and will learn how to change brake pads, adjust and replace brake cables and index gears to improve shifting. Each participant will have access to their own work stand and tools, for maximum hands-on experience. We encourage you to bring your own bike to work on so that you can leave knowing it is set up to run smoothly. As with Level 1, bikes are available if this is an issue.
When: running periodically throughout the year, usually Feb and Sept. Level 2 runs during an afternoon session from 1:00– 4:00pm.
Where: Drosi Bikes Community Workshop
For Who: this course is designed for those with some basic bike maintenance knowledge and is open to anyone aged 18 and over. If you’re unsure on the skill level you’ll need for this course, please give us a call at the workshop and we’d be happy to talk you through – 07396658501
Pre-Book? Yes – places are restricted to 3 per session and can be booked via our Eventbrite page. Please note, we require a minimum of 2 attendees to run these workshops. If we are unable to reach our minimum number we will sadly have to cancel. In which case, you will be fully refunded and we will do our best to reschedule for a future date.
Cost: £45
Fix & Learn
What: half hour 1:1 session where a mechanic will work with you to troubleshoot and fix a specific issue with your bike. To date, we’ve covered everything from replacing brake pads and broken chains to punctures and slipping gears.
When: 1 workshop per month running between the hours of 2:00 – 6:00pm. Days change but check out our events page and Facebook for details on the next dates available.
Where: Drosi Bikes Community Workshop
For Who: this workshop is designed for anyone wanting to learn how to identify and fix a specific issue with their bike. No previous experience or knowledge is required and it’s open to anyone aged 8 and above (though we do ask that a supervising adult attends with anyone under the age of 14).
Pre-Book? Yes. To give you the best experience during your time allocation, we ask for a brief heads up on what you’re looking to cover. This Is to ensure we’re not spending the time finding tools and equipment and can get straight into fixing. But don’t worry if you’re not entirely sure what the issue may be, just a rough idea is helpful. Bookings can be made by contacting us directly – hello@drosibikes.org
Cost: Free. These workshops form part of our Social Re-Cycle project, which is funded by The National Lottery.
Women’s DIY
What: A friendly, non-judgemental space for women+ to learn new skills, share knowledge and work on their own bikes, all while getting to know other like-minded people in the area. This is an informal safe space, where anything (cycle related!) goes. The workshop is coordinated by a number of experienced female mechanics who are on hand to guide you through any bike maintenance task or generally help health check your bike. The workshop has a full range of tools and equipment for you to use, plus an array of new and used parts, so you’ll have everything you need to get your bike running smoothly. Plus there’s always tea and coffee on the go!
P.s. in case you’re wondering, women+ includes anyone identifying as female, trans or non-binary.
When: the first Wednesday evening of the month, running from 5:00 – 6:30pm
Where: Drosi Bikes Community Workshop
For Who: this workshop is open for women+ of all experience levels. No previous experience or knowledge is required but we also welcome experienced mechanics and riders who are happy to share their skills and knowledge. Children are welcome if childcare is an issue, but please remember it is a working space – give us a call at the workshop and we’d be happy to advise on a case-by-case basis.
Pre-Book? No – but a heads up if you’re coming is always appreciated
Cost: Free. These workshops are funded from profits made by Drosi Bikes
Youth Programme – ‘Gearing Up’
What: a four-week youth mentoring programme for 14–24-year-olds, designed to help participants gain confidence, learn new skills and get hands-on work experience within the cycle industry. The programme follows a set syllabus which is designed to span a total of six hours over the 4-week period. All participants will receive a personal workbook to track their progress and a certificate upon completion.
When: the programme runs during the week, though times and days are dependent on your circumstances. We’ll be as flexible as possible to accommodate your preferences.
Where: Drosi Bikes Community Workshop
For Who: open to anyone 14-24 years of age. Participants will work 1:1 alongside an experienced and DBS-checked bike mechanic, and volunteer coordinator. Options are available for students to buddy up if they would prefer to attend with a friend.
Pre-Book? Yes, places are limited – contact us via hello@drosibikes.org for more information or to register your interest.
Cost: Free. These workshops form part of our Social Re-Cycle project, which is funded by The National Lottery.
Bespoke Training Packages
What: bespoke training courses which can be designed around your needs and objectives, and can cover anything from basic bike maintenance demonstrations up to more challenging repairs for groups or individuals of all ages.
When: as required
Where: anywhere, as required
For Who: courses are tailored for each participant or group so are suitable for anyone from complete beginners to those with more experience.
Pre-Book? Yes. We’ll work with you to tailor courses specific to your requirements. Contact – hello@drosibikes.org for further information
Cost: from £90
Which Bike Maintenance Course is Right for You?
| Workshop | Skill Level | Duration | Key Focus Areas | Cost | Booking Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1: Intro to bike maintenance | Beginner | 3 Hours (morning) | Puncture repair, safety checks, basic adjustments | £45 | Yes (via Eventbrite) |
| Level 2: Intro to bike maintenance | Intermediate | 3 hours (afternoon) | Brake pad replacement, gear indexing, cable adjustments | £45 | Yes (via Eventbrite) |
| Fix & Learn | All levels | 30 mins 1:1 | Specific issue troubleshooting (e.g. brakes, gears, chains) | Free | Yes (via email) |
| Women’s DIY | All levels | 1.5 hours (monthly) | Hands-on learning in a women+ friendly space | Free | No (but a heads up appreciated) |
| Youth Programme | Beginner – 14-24 years | 4 weeks (6 hours total) | Mentoring, hands-on skills, industry experience | Free | Yes (via email) |
| Bespoke Training | All levels | Flexible | Custom topics based on needs | From £90 | Yes (via email) |
Drosi Bikes Training TL;DR
- If you’re new to bike maintenance, start with Level 1
- If you already know the basics, Level 2 will refine your skills
- If you have a specific problem with your bike, Fix & Learn is the best choice
- If you want a supportive space to work on your bike, Women’s DIY is perfect
- If you’re a young person looking to gain skills and confidence, the Youth Programme is ideal
- If you need to learn something specific or with a set group, go for Bespoke Training
Still unsure, drop us a line and we’ll be happy to talk through your options – we’re a friendly bunch and always happy to be chatting about anything cycle related.