Mechanic of the Month: Ashley Smith at The Surrey Bike Mechanic

Last year, we launched our ‘Mechanic of the Month’ in partnership with bikebiz to champion bicycle mechanics around the UK.

We now have additional support from Topeak, who agreed to support the initiative by offering Topeak tools and best trade pricing across the Topeak Tools/Workshop range (via Extra UK) for 12 months.

Nominations are open to the public via bikebook, allowing anyone to nominate their favourite mechanic.

Here we chat to our most recent winner, Ashley Smith, the Surrey Bike Mechanic.

Walk us through your journey into the world of bicycle mechanics? What initially sparked your interest in the job, and how did you get started?

I’ve been asked cyclist for many years and always thought about owning my own bike shop and working for myself. I’ve always tried to work on my own bikes wherever possible over the years, and finally decided in November 2024 to make it happen. So with my wife’s and my family’s support, The Surrey Bike Mechanic was born. I’m still small, operating from my home, but I can do and will try to do most jobs if I think I can.

Tell us about your current role and where you work?

I own The Surrey Bike Mechanic, based in Deepcut, Surrey, and I’ve been trading for one year now.

What does a typical day look like for you in terms of the bikes and jobs you most often encounter in your workshop?

A typical day for me is a good old bronze service; most jobs start this way. Sometimes I find other things and will then work out what will be the best value for my customer before presenting them with a quote. I.e sometimes it might be beneficial to upgrade to a silver. Then I tend to spend time driving around doing collections or drop-offs, as this is a free service I offer.

In your opinion, what is the most important, or perhaps misunderstood, aspect of a bicycle mechanic’s role?

The most important aspect, I believe, is attention to detail. Bikes are, in essence, a simple object, BUT if you get something wrong as a mechanic, it could ruin your customer’s experience of cycling, and that’s never something I want to happen. Getting out on the bike should be fun for all.

Do you have a favourite tool you can’t live without, or a particular type of job that you find most satisfying?

My favourite tool is probably a chain checker, simple, but it can tell you and your customer a lot in a few seconds. I love wrapping bar tape; it’s almost therapeutic when you get it looking spot on with good cuts and a pro tape finish at the ends.

Are you using Bikebook? What’s your experience been like?

Yes, I use Bikebook, it’s great to be part of the Ribble Outpost program, it’s a fantastic site which is great for future customers to see what I offer, with my availability and my reviews.

Beyond practical skills, what qualities make someone a great bicycle mechanic?

Again, attention to detail and ideally a love for cycling.

How important have formal qualifications or continuous learning been in your development?

I am a cytech master technician and believe that qualifications are essential. I continue to learn daily and also complete training on Shimano Tech Centre, etc. personally I don’t think there is enough value or emphasis put on formal qualifications. Don’t get me wrong, having a Cytech qualification doesn’t make me the best mechanic in the world, but having that behind me reassures my customers who can look it up.

What changes in bike technology or rider culture have you seen over time?

With the increased usage of electronic gearing systems, it has been essential for me to ensure I’ve trained on these systems so I can understand their nuances.

What advice would you offer to someone who is just starting out or considering a career as a bicycle mechanic? What have you learned that you wish you’d known when you first began?

Just do it, if bikes are your passion, then go for it – but remember, you don’t need all the fancy tools to start with. Start with what you can afford and build your tool kit from there. BUT don’t skimp on a workstand – get the best one you can get from day one! But most of all, enjoy it and have fun!