How to Be Bike Guide - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 6, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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The increase in bike riders has caused a surge in bike shops and bike repair services. As more people opt to ride their bikes for commuting, recreation and other activities, the need for bike-related services has grown. Bike shops now offer a wide range of products, from bikes, to helmets, to accessories such as racks, bags and locks.

Bike repair services are also in high demand as more riders look to maintain their bikes and keep them running smoothly. bike clubs, groups and events have become increasingly popular, providing a great way for riders to connect with each other and enjoy the outdoors. All of this has led to an overall cycling culture that is beneficial to both riders and the environment.

Steps How to Become

Acquire the necessary certifications and credentials. To become a bike guide, most states, provinces, and countries require a certification from an accredited guide school, such as the Professional Mountain Bike Instructors Association (PMBIA).
Acquire a first aid and/or CPR certification. A valid first aid/CPR certification is often required by guide schools and employers.
Obtain liability insurance. Many guide schools and employers require bike guides to have their own liability insurance to cover any potential claims made against them in the event of an accident.
Choose a specialty. Bike guides specialize in different areas, such as mountain biking, road biking, touring, racing, and cross-country. Some guides are even certified to teach bike maintenance and repair.
Join a professional organization or network. Professional organizations, such as the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) or the American Cycling Association (ACA), provide access to resources, networking opportunities, and job postings.
Build experience and knowledge. Most guide schools require applicants to have at least one season of experience as a bike guide before applying for certification. This can be achieved by shadowing experienced guides or volunteering at bike events.
Apply for jobs and internships. Once certified, bike guides can apply for jobs or internships with tour companies, bike shops, resorts, and outfitters.

Staying ahead and competent when it comes to biking requires dedication and effort. Regular practice and maintenance of the bike will help ensure that it is running smoothly and efficiently, which can help cyclists stay ahead of the competition. proper nutrition and hydration are key for any cyclist to make sure their body is in its peak performance state.

Taking time to learn about the terrain, the bikes components, and the gear that is available can also make a huge difference in ones biking capabilities. Lastly, staying up to date on new biking trends, techniques, and safety measures is important in order to stay ahead and remain competent as a cyclist.

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Job Description

Bike Mechanic: Responsible for the maintenance and repair of bicycles. Must have knowledge of bike components and a strong understanding of bicycle mechanics.
Bike Tour Guide: Responsible for leading recreational and educational bicycle tours for customers. Must have knowledge of local areas and cycling safety.
Bike Shop Manager: Responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a bike shop. Must have experience in customer service, sales, and bike repair.
Bike Instructor: Responsible for teaching customers how to ride a bicycle. Must have knowledge of cycling safety and techniques to teach beginners.
Bike Rental Associate: Responsible for renting bicycles to customers. Must have knowledge of bike components and an understanding of customer service.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of bike maintenance and repair
Ability to assess the condition of a bike and diagnose problems
Knowledge of different types of bikes and components
Ability to adjust brakes and gears
Ability to choose appropriate clothing and accessories for biking
Ability to operate a bike safely in varying terrain and conditions
Knowledge of local biking laws and regulations
Ability to provide advice on bike selection, route planning, and safety
Knowledge of first aid and basic medical care for biking injuries
Ability to communicate effectively with customers

A key skill for any cyclist is the ability to handle their bike with confidence. To ensure a safe and enjoyable ride, cyclists should have an understanding of how their bike works, as well as how to safely control it when faced with challenging terrain or unpredictable conditions. This includes having the right posture and body position, knowing how to shift gears correctly, and how to properly brake and corner.

Having a good sense of balance, as well as the strength and coordination to pedal, are also important attributes. When cyclists are armed with these skills, they can enjoy the freedom of the ride while staying safe on their journey.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have guiding cyclists on bike tours?
What strategies do you use to ensure the safety of the riders?
How do you handle challenging terrain or weather conditions?
How do you plan a route for cycling tours?
How do you handle changes in the tour itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances?
What is your approach to customer service when guiding groups?
How do you handle conflicts among group members?
Describe a time when you had to think quickly and solve a problem while leading a tour.
What are your methods for keeping riders motivated and engaged throughout the tour?
How do you handle difficult questions from riders?

Common Tools in Industry

Bike Pump. A tool used to inflate bicycle tires, usually with air or CO2 (eg: a Mini Bike Pump).
Chain Breaker. A tool used to break and reconnect bicycle chains (eg: a Park Tool Chain Breaker).
Wrench Set. A set of tools used to tighten and loosen bolts on a bicycle (eg: an Allen Wrench Set).
Tire Levers. A tool used to remove and install bicycle tires (eg: a Park Tool Tire Lever).
Multi-Tool. A handheld tool with multiple functions, such as screwdrivers, Allen keys, and chain links (eg: a Crank Brothers Multi-Tool).
Lubricant. A substance used to reduce friction between moving parts (eg: White Lightning Chain Lube).
Torque Wrench. A tool used to accurately measure and set the amount of torque applied to a bolt (eg: a Park Tool TW-5 Torque Wrench).
Cable Cutters. A tool used to cut cables and housing on a bicycle (eg: Park Tool CN-10 Cable Cutters).

Professional Organizations to Know

National Bicycle Dealers Association
International Bicycle Fund
National Mountain Bike Association
League of American Bicyclists
Bicycle Product Suppliers Association
Professional Bicycle Mechanics Association
North American Handmade Bicycle Show
Adventure Cycling Association
American Motorcyclist Association
American Trail Running Association

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Common Important Terms

Chainring. A large circular gear attached to the crank arms of a bicycle, which the chain wraps around to drive the bike forward.
Crank Arms. The two arms attached to the pedals of a bicycle, which turn the chainring to drive the bike forward.
Chainstay. The two tubes connecting the rear wheel axle to the bottom bracket of a bicycle frame.
Derailleur. A device that allows a bicycle to shift gears by moving the chain between different sprockets on the rear cassette.
Cassette. A cluster of sprockets mounted onto the rear hub of a bicycle, which the derailleur moves the chain between to change gears.
Rim Brake. A type of brake system that uses two arms with pads attached that press against the sides of the rim of a bicycle wheel to slow down or stop it.
Disc Brake. A type of brake system that uses a caliper mounted to the frame or fork of a bicycle, which squeezes a disc rotor mounted to the hub of the wheel to slow down or stop it.
Gear Ratio. The ratio between the number of teeth on a chainring and sprocket of a bicycle. It determines how much resistance is applied when pedalling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of bike is best for mountain biking?

A full-suspension mountain bike is typically the best choice for mountain biking. It offers superior control and comfort over rough terrain, and its ability to absorb shocks and bumps makes it a great choice for any type of off-road riding.

What type of bike is best for commuting?

A hybrid bike is often the best choice for commuting. It offers a good mix of speed and comfort, and its upright riding position makes it easy to see and be seen in traffic.

How often should I have my bike serviced?

Most bikes should be serviced at least once per year, or more often if you ride frequently or in harsh conditions. During a service, a professional mechanic will inspect and tune all components of your bike to make sure it is running safely and efficiently.

What type of bike should I buy for my child?

The best bike for your child depends on their age and size. For younger children (ages 2-5), a balance bike is usually a good choice as it helps them learn to balance and ride without pedals. For older children (ages 6-10), a lightweight 12-20 wheeled bike with coaster brakes is usually the best choice.

What are the most important safety considerations when riding a bike?

The most important safety considerations when riding a bike are to always wear a properly fitted helmet, to use lights and reflective clothing when riding at night or in low light conditions, and to obey all traffic laws. Additionally, it's important to check your tires and brakes regularly to make sure they are in good condition.