So, in what ways can in-house inspection services bene t customers whilst contributing to workshop revenue?
1. Encourage customers to be proactive
There is almost no limit to the ways in which damage can be sustained to a carbon frame or component, from minor or major crashes through to drops, bumping sharp items, or even objects such as rocks being icked by other cyclists’ wheels or passing vehicles. Some bicycles may even contain manufacturing anomalies that could ‘propagate’ (travel through the material) over time.
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When this results in signi cant surface damage that is noticed by a cyclist, it is an obvious and urgent signal to have an inspection performed. However, the problem with carbon bre parts is that the damage may propagate internally, leaving the surface seemingly intact and giving the cyclist (and even untrained mechanics) a false sense of security. The lesson
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of whether a bike is considered ‘brand new’ or not) should be considered an opportunity to ‘look under the hood’. Damage can of course be identi ed and repaired, but issues can and should also be logged and monitored to prevent issues down the road. If the #RightToRepair movement has taught us anything, it is that the emphasis needs to be on ensuring equipment longevity and avoiding premature obsolescence through repair.
About CYCLE INSPECT Cycle Inspect are aiming to provide the first independent standard in bicycle inspection and data-driven risk assessment using NDT and machine learning, through training of a network of trusted mechanics. They provide industry training and insights that the entire global cycling community can benefit from.
or even the infamous ‘tap test’ considered enough, with more objective and data-driven methods of assessment needed. As cyclist’s awareness of the risks in riding or buying damaged or defective carbon bikes increases, so too will their expectations of mechanics, biketters, pre-owned bicycle re-sellers and manufacturers to proactively ensure safety and equipment longevity. To address this properly, no solution should be considered complete without a holistic approach to training, practical experience, standardised processes, and appropriate technology. Australian start up Cycle Inspect deliver on this, with the addition of the industry’s rst accreditation, and a patent-protected web-based assessment tool that guides technicians and reduces the ‘guess-work’. As trusted professionals, every engagement with cyclists (regardless
