The Right Way to Tip Bike Mechanics
Submitted by Andy_B on Saturday, 20 July 2019 Page Views: 378
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Edward R writes: About a week ago, I got a stuck headset removed from my old hybrid bicycle and replaced on my new one. After the work was done, I thanked him with a beer six-pack. This was because time and again, tipping in beer had been regarded as an honourable method, along with alternatives like fruit baskets. However, as it turns out, we have been incorrect all the way.When you are going to tip a bike mechanic, the best option is to straight-up pay cash for the repair. There are many reasons to back this. To begin with, what do you do if the mechanic doesn’t drink beer?
But the main reason is that hybrid bicycle mechanics are largely underpaid. Surveys conducted by the Professional Bicycle Mechanics Association in recent times shows that more than 50 % of the surveyed repair shops in the US, the highest-paid mechanics earn less than $ 30,000 annually. This is what full-time mechanics make, others earn even less.
This data stands very close to the statistics from the Bureau of Labor where the data showed a full-time payment of $28,390 annually. In terms of adjusting inflation, the earning for bike mechanics remains the same as about 12 years; even though the prices for essentials like healthcare and housing have risen significantly.
Yet, the job role of the mechanics has transformed dramatically in the last 12 years. Modern day hybrid bicycle mechanics are not only experts in tuning up drivetrains but also experts on disc brakes, dropper posts and hydraulic systems. They are also electricians who use computer diagnostic software programs to troubleshoot errors with drivetrains. They are also supposed to fix frame problems and rebuild suspensions. To do all this, they utilize advanced tools and training, combined with expertise and experience.
In efforts to boost the pay for mechanics, the PBMA proposes a one-third rule similar to alternate service industries such as electricians. The PDMA version stated by President James Stanfill means that the top wrench in repair shop would earn about one-third of the basic rate of the shop. However, there are several arguments against the proposal, meaning there is no guarantee of the adoption of the idea.
This has necessitated tipping in cash since it can help mechanics pay their rent and grocery bills, unlike cold beer. The problem of low pay can be seen in several industries, and tipping isn’t a fundamental solution to the issue. While mechanics do not expect to be tipped, it can be a worthy gesture of acknowledging the quality work while a proper systematic solution isn’t implemented.
It is understood that tipping could be a little awkward as it isn’t a social norm like in restaurants. You will not find a tip jar in all repair shops, and your mechanic might be on leave on the day you pick up your bike. As pointed out by Stanfill, customers can at times drop off their bikes and pick it up from the service manager itself, without getting the opportunity to actually meet the mechanic who did the job.
The primary reason I tipped my mechanic Jim in beer is that he likes it. He isn’t a working mechanic at the repair shop, rather he owns it. I met him when we were both mechanics about 25 years ago. While I do most of my fixes myself, I trust him to do anything that I do not possess the required knowledge or tools for. I know him well to know that he gladly accepts beer and scotch. So, when I finally get my custom wheelset made, I’ll be sure to bring him an elegant single malt as a gesture of gratitude.
My tipping Jim is beer was appropriate as I know him well. So, it is a great idea to talk to your mechanic about the issues in your bike and what work they are going to be doing on it. This will help you to get to know them better and understand their likes and dislikes. This way, you can tip them in cash, their favourite coffee or whatever else they desire.
When you talk to the mechanic, you can ensure that the tip reaches them. You will also be able to figure out the best way to tip them. As for doubtful situations, 15 to 20 percent of the total repair cost in cash with a sincere acknowledgement of their hard work is a great tip.
