Shimano to host 2024 European Bike Mechanics Championship in Belgium

Shimano has announced the upcoming 2024 European Mechanics Championship, which will take place from October 5 to 7, 2024, in Mechelen, Belgium.

This event aims to spotlight bike mechanics’ indispensable skills and promote their role in the cycling industry.

With an ever-increasing number of bicycles in the market, the growing demand for professional maintenance, and the need for well-trained, highly skilled mechanics has never been higher than before.

With this in mind, Shimano is committed to advancing the quality of bike service by showcasing the expertise of mechanics from across Europe in this competition.

Lieven Laflere of Lievens Bikerepair, who will represent Team Belgium at this inaugural championship, commented: “The Mechanics Championship is a testament to the hard work and dedication we put into our work every day to provide the very best service to our customers.

“Winning this title will motivate us to continue to offer the highest quality to our customers, who rightly set the bar very high.”

Mechanics from 14 countries will come together in Mechelen, Belgium, to compete in a series of timed, technical challenges designed to test their skills and knowledge, while being assessed by a team of qualified experts with years of combined expertise in the technical service of bikes, quality control and product from the local Shimano training centre.

Presenter for Eurosport’s road cycling coverage, Orla Chennaoui will host the competition, highlighting the mechanic’s thoughts and insights on the competition through interviews and content shared across Shimano’s channels.

The event aims to raise awareness of the importance of regular, professional bike maintenance and promote the profession as a viable and rewarding career path for those with a technical interest.

Through its network of Shimano Service Centres, Shimano is an essential partner within the cycling industry, providing training, high-quality servicing and advice to customers.

Marc van Rooij, president of Shimano Europe, added: “The importance of highly skilled bike mechanics cannot be overstated, which is why Shimano is proud to support the 2024 European Mechanics Championship.

“This event showcases the exceptional talent and dedication of these unsung heroes.

“As the cycling industry continues to thrive, we want to inspire the next generation of mechanics and reinforce the vital role they play in ensuring a positive cycling experience for all.”

The championships will emphasise that becoming a bike mechanic is a “future-proof career”.

Increased levels of cycling can play a key role in tackling climate change – reducing air pollution and congestion in cities.

Around the world, cities continue to make changes to enable more cycling and the demand for skilled mechanics will only grow against this backdrop.

After the event, Shimano will provide an overview of the results, including notable highlights, images, and video content.