Mobile Bike Repair Business as a Side Hustle
Want to start a mobile bike repair business as a side hustle? The potential is promising.
The side gig economy is growing. Nowadays, it’s becoming harder to find someone who doesn’t have a way to make money on the side. And for those that haven’t yet cashed in on the side hustle era, more than 55% of survey respondents claim they’d love an opportunity to turn a hobby into a revenue stream.
According to recent employment data, only 16% of gigs related to skilled trades (which includes bicycle repair). As more cities promote bike transportation as a greener alternative to cars, this niche is destined for growth and will become increasingly in demand. More than 100 million Americans own bicycles and take a combined four billion leisure and commuting trips each year. And just like cars, bicycles are prone to breakdowns, from flat tires to broken chains to faulty brakes.
If you’re looking for an in-demand side hustle that could potentially become full time income, consider starting a mobile bike repair business. Here’s how:
Invest in the Right Tools
Bicycle repair requires specialized bicycle tools, like T-handle Allen wrenches and pedal wrenches, along with the typical business needs to keep your operation running.
As a mobile repair shop, you’ll have a few extra considerations, such as a portable workspace with good lighting. Some larger operations invest in a van or trailer that’s akin to bringing along an entire workshop. But if you’re just starting out and don’t have that kind of cash to invest, that’s fine too — all you really need is a stocked toolbox, headlamp flashlight, and a couple folding sawhorses and a piece of plywood to create a portable work surface. You might also keep a dropcloth in your arsenal if you don’t have the space for the sawhorses and plywood.
Find Some Practice Clients
Once you’ve honed your skills and have all the tools you need to succeed, start growing your expertise by offering free or trade-for services. Ask your friends with bicycles if you can offer your services to them in exchange for an online review.
The real goal here isn’t just to promote your business, but also get honest feedback from the clients you help so you can improve your services. There’s always room for improvement, and the earlier you work out the kinks in your business, the faster you’ll be able to grow without limits.
Spread the Word
Online reviews can be a powerful form of testimony, with more than 84% of people trusting them just as much as a recommendation from a family member or friend. In addition, 97% of people rely on online reviews for finding out more about local businesses and services, and of those, 93% of people claim that online reviews influence their purchasing decisions.
It’s a start, but don’t rely on them solely to market your business. Invest in some marketing to get the word out faster, such as passing out business cards (perhaps with a discount printed on them?), making flyers, or setting up at events. You might also partner with local bike shop owners to post your promotional material or even get a contract with them for mobile bike repairs.
Gain Ongoing Mobile Bike Repair Business Inspiration
As your mobile bike repair business gains steam, you’ll want to continue finding ways to market yourself and improve your operations. At HomeGrown Cycles, we’re always sharing tips and inspiration to help you run a better business. Check our blog for the latest news and insights on bicycle repair and the industry at large.
