The Bike Inn Training (TBI)

Hands-on bicycle mechanic training in Appleby

The Bike Inn Training (TBI) is a bicycle mechanic training centre based in Appleby in Westmorland, Cumbria. Its activity focuses on in-person courses aimed at the professional workshop, with a practical approach on real bicycles rather than exclusively theoretical or online training. The company presents itself as the UK's specialist centre for bicycle mechanic training and claims to have trained more than 10,000 students.

The team is made up of former students of the centre itself. Jon Colborne serves as chief engineer and technician, while Henrietta Colborne is listed as director and professional racer, with coaching duties. The team is completed by Gavin Kipling, specialising in eBikes, and Barnaby Walkingshaw, professional mechanic and road specialist.

Mechanic and eBike courses

The training offer is organised into different levels and specialities, with courses that combine theory and workshop practice:

• Level 2 (Theory & Foundation): entry-level course for aspiring mechanics, cycling enthusiasts and industry professionals.
• Level 3: OFQUAL qualification aimed at reaching the highest level of competence.
• Zero to Hero Level 3: intensive programme that takes you from beginner to Level 3 professional mechanic in a single course.
• eBike Technician: fundamentals of how an eBike works, fault finding and real-world solutions, with diagnostics for Bosch, Avinox, Shimano and others.
• Suspension: lower leg and can service on Fox and RockShox forks.
• Complete Cyclist: students bring their own bike to learn how to maintain and repair it.
• Wheel Building: two weeks of virtual distance theory and two days of on-site practical learning.

Accreditations and career support

The courses are OFQUAL accredited and awarded by ETA. The centre is part of the ELCAS scheme, aimed at military service leavers. Training is complemented by career progression support, which includes job advice, CV help and networking in the sector. The courses have been developed with the collaboration of shop owners, mechanics and eBike specialists.

Cycling community

The company runs a cycling club on Strava, forums for graduates and cycling clothing in the iconic orange and black. Its team is made up of graduates of the centre itself, which strengthens the link with the alumni community.

Location and contact

Station Yard, The Metal Shed, Appleby, CA16 6UL, Cumbria · Phone: 01768 347 979 · Email: info@thebikeinn.co.uk