On Jan 12th, our Berlin showroom was the home to an event teaching bike maintenance and mechanics. Our mechanic Lea Stein and social media manager Amanda Chudobey-Berger hosted the evening alongside the team from The Bikery. The night was a mix of a taught lecture and demonstration, using a Standert Pfadfinder to showcase various techniques; from adjusting one’s derailleur to cleaning one’s drivetrain throughout winter and summer, and a practical session on how to repair a flat.
Amanda, originally from Montreal Canada, has organized and hosted bike mechanic workshops for women back in her hometown when she was working part-time as a mechanic during her university studies. Some of these workshops focused on collecting donations for charities helping women experiencing domestic violence. When we asked Amanda why she helps organize such events, she explained that it is important for women to learn how to be independent on and off the bike. Events like this workshop help make this possible.
‘’Anyone can work on a bike, fix or build one, or even repair a flat, regardless of gender. It’s a matter of learning and trying. Many people might think that the world of mechanics is intimidating and overwhelming, but once you learn and understand how things work, it becomes less scary and just a normal part of your life. Furthermore, we must eliminate overwhelming stereotypes and stigmas around women in mechanics and within the cycling industry: Workshops like these help women to feel more empowered as they learn valuable skills to make them more independent as cyclists. It also creates a safe space for them to learn new things, where they don’t feel judged for not knowing how something works.
Everyday women within the industry have to fight for their equal and respected place. Whether it’s in the workshop, in the peloton, or on group rides. It takes a form of determination to work within a male-dominated industry and to break the barriers that have been put in front of women for so long. These workshops are intended to provide knowledge about the machine they ride and how they can repair it when needed, so they can become better and more independent cyclists.”
At the end of the workshop, all participants received Muc-Off goodie bags and three lucky winners went home with bigger Muc-Off prizes. We thank everyone who joined us to learn, share knowledge and come together as a community.
