What Happened to PBMA? A Mechanic’s Perspective

For those of you searching for PBMA (Professional Bicycle Mechanics Association), you’re not alone. I supported their mission, and I was hopeful they could bring legitimacy to the bicycle mechanic profession. Unfortunately, they seem to have disappeared without a word, but I want to offer some insight into what they stood for and why they mattered. “PBMA has undergone many changes over the years. This article from Bicycle Retailer provides an in-depth look at where they are today.”

PBMA’s Mission: Elevating Bicycle Mechanics

PBMA was an organization dedicated to improving the bicycle industry—specifically, bicycle mechanics. Their goal wasn’t to form a union but to create a support system that helped mechanics gain better training, earn higher wages, and establish credibility in the industry.

As someone who has been teaching bicycle mechanics for over a decade, I saw great value in what PBMA was trying to do. Bicycle mechanics have often been overlooked, with some people seeing the job as unskilled labor. But the truth is, modern bicycles are far more complex than they were decades ago.

The Changing Landscape of Bicycle Mechanics

Bicycles today are nothing like the ones we grew up working on. Over the past ten years, the cost of bikes has skyrocketed—some now cost as much as a used car. With technology integrating into the industry, modern bikes have become intricate and sophisticated.

• Hidden Wiring & Fluid Lines: Just like today’s cars, many high-end bikes have hidden electronic shifting systems, internal cable routing, and hydraulic braking components.

• Software & Diagnostics: Some bikes now require software updates and electronic diagnostics, making repairs more complex.

• Precision & Expertise Required: A high-performance road or mountain bike can have hundreds of small components that require expert assembly and servicing.

Yet, despite all this, some still view bike mechanics as low-skill workers. I hear things like:

“It’s just a bike! What’s so hard about that? I worked on my own as a kid.”

Well, times have changed. The expertise needed today is far beyond what most people imagine.

Why I Supported PBMA

I believed PBMA was helping to set a standard in the industry—something sorely needed. One of the most common questions I get from my students or potential clients is:

“If I get certified through your program, will employers recognize it? Will it help me get hired?”

And the unfortunate answer? There is no governing body, state certification, or standardized recognition for bike mechanics. PBMA gave me hope that this could change. I even paid to have a spot on their website, wanting to be associated with a system that valued professionalism in bicycle mechanics.

What Happened to PBMA?

Then, without notice, PBMA disappeared. No email, no announcement—just gone. I’ve noticed that people are still searching for them online, so I wanted to offer this information. If you’ve found anything different, feel free to reach out and let me know.

Thanks for reading,
Arthur – Bike Teacher
www.biketeacher.com
San Jose, CA