Road cycling can be a bit overwhelming for anyone new to the sport. There is a lot to learn about riding technique, the latest cycling gear, nutrition, training, and maintenance. You can spend a lot of money getting your bike tuned up for the summer, or even a long ride. Many beginners who are mechanically inclined often think they can do the tuning up themselves, but get turned off to the idea when they see how many tools are unique to the bicycle. A few years back, the biggest bicycle tool company, Park Tools, began doing classes through local bike shops to help teach beginners a step above the basics in bike maintanence and repair. This program, called “Park Tool School” takes place on occasion at most local bike shops. A fee, which varies from $30 to $150, gets you a very nice book on bike repair with lots of pictures and examples. Each LBS is different in the packages they offer, but many also include a discount on tool purchases while you are attending the class. The class usually run a couple hours long, once a week for about a month, but again, it depends on the LBS.

If you want to find out which bike shops in your area ofter Park Tool School, click here.