30 June 2025 Shimano Europe has today launched Nextgen Mechanics: Advancing Cycle Mechanic Standards & Careers Together, a new call for evidence aimed at tackling the growing shortage of skilled bicycle mechanics across Europe.
As cycling continues to expand, driven by e-bikes, cargo bikes, leasing bikes, and the transition to sustainable transport, the demand for high-quality repair and maintenance services is rapidly outpacing the available supply of bicycle mechanics in Europe. This is leading to a shortage of skilled mechanics in many regions. This is worsened by a skills crisis, with qualified mechanics leaving the industry and being replaced by untrained or uncertified individuals.
The Nextgen Mechanics initiative invites contributions from the whole cycling eco-system. Among others, the industry, city governments, training providers, NGOs, and mechanics themselves to share their insights, challenges, and success stories. Submissions will help inform a major report to be published at the Cycling Industries Europe (CIE) Summit in October 2025.
Ties van Dijk, Advocacy Specialist at Shimano Europe, said:We are currently facing a critical and worsening shortage of skilled bicycle mechanics. What makes this even more concerning is the ongoing skill drain. Many experienced mechanics leave the industry, often replaced by untrained or uncertified individuals. This threatens the quality, reliability and accessibility of bicycle maintenance.
Bicycle mechanics are the backbone of the cycling ecosystem. Their expertise is essential to every business model that keeps bicycles on the roadfrom independent shops to large-scale leasing fleets. Without them, we risk creating serious barriers for people who want to start or continue cycling.
This is not a challenge that any single company, association, or city can not solve alone. It requires a united effort across the entire cycling ecosystem. Therefore, we take this as a first step in close collaboration with Cycling Industries Europe. We invite everyone who shares this concern to join us in tackling this urgent issue.
The call for evidence is now live and open to all. Contributions can be submitted via a short online form.
This is a collaborative initiative, with Shimano Europe & Cycling Industries Europe is aiming to bring in a broad alliance of stakeholders committed to strengthening the profession, raising standards, and inspiring the next generation of cycle mechanics.
The Call For Evidence is open until Friday 25th July 2025 onfusionmediasvs.typeform.com/to/WyWNVk4U
