The bikebook-backed Mechanic of the Month scheme has named Matthew from Chain Therapy as its latest winner, continuing a run of recognition for the unsung technicians who keep the nation’s bikes rolling. The initiative, launched earlier this year, was set up specifically to shine a light on skilled mechanics working in shops and workshops across the UK, a corner of the trade that rarely gets its own headlines.
The scheme has just picked up extra backing from Topeak, which has agreed to supply tools and preferential trade pricing on its Workshop and Tools range through distributor Extra UK for the next twelve months. That partnership should give organisers more scope to reward winners with genuinely useful kit rather than just a mention online.
Anyone can put a mechanic forward for consideration, with nominations submitted by members of the public who want to flag up a spanner-wielder who has gone above and beyond. Winners are announced on a rolling monthly basis, building what organisers hope will become a recognisable fixture in the trade calendar.
For riders, this sort of recognition matters more than it might first appear. A good mechanic is often the difference between a smooth club run and a roadside abandonment, or between a safe descent and a nasty surprise on the brakes. With bike shops under continued financial pressure and skilled staff sometimes hard to retain, initiatives that publicly celebrate mechanical expertise also help make the case that these jobs deserve proper recognition, and pay, within the industry.
Sam Allcock is a digital PR entrepreneur and publisher with over two decades in SEO, content and media. He founded PR Fire, the pay-as-you-go press release distribution service, and has worked with brands including Red Bull, Nokia and Liverpool FC. He contributes to HuffPost, HubSpot and The London Economic, and owns a portfolio of news and media titles, of which On Track Magazine is one.
