Service-Only Bike Workshop

Provide bicycle repair and maintenance without retail sales

Startup Cost
$25,000-$80,000
Difficulty
Intermediate
Time to Profit
8-15 months
Profit Potential
$7,000-$25,000/month

Overview

Service-focused bike workshops generate $80,000-$300,000 annually with 60-75% margins focusing on repair and service.

In 2025, cyclists need quality repair without retail prices.

Services include complete tune-ups ($80-$150), wheel building and truing ($40-$120), drivetrain service ($50-$100), suspension service ($80-$200), hydraulic brake service ($60-$120), and frame alignment ($60-$150).

Successful service shops employ skilled mechanics, offer quick turnaround times, stock common repair parts, provide fair pricing, and focus on service quality over sales.

Lower overhead than full retail.

Can serve other bike shops.

Marketing through cyclists, bike clubs, referrals, and reputation for quality work.

Required Skills

  • Advanced Bicycle Mechanics
  • Wheel Building
  • Suspension Service
  • Parts Sourcing
  • Shop Management
  • Quality Control

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Lower overhead than full retail
  • High margins on service work
  • Focus on mechanic expertise
  • Less inventory than retail shop
  • Can build strong reputation

Cons

  • Service-only limits revenue
  • Need highly skilled mechanics
  • Seasonal repair patterns
  • Competition from full-service shops
  • Parts sourcing without dealer agreements

How to Get Started

  1. Set up workshop with professional tools
  2. Hire or train skilled mechanics
  3. Establish parts supplier relationships
  4. Set service pricing and turnaround times
  5. Market to cyclists as service specialist
  6. Build reputation for quality repairs
  7. Offer specialized services (wheels, suspension)

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