New Zealand Certificate in Bicycle Mechanics (Level 4)
Mechanical
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Take your skills to the next level with the New Zealand Certificate in Bicycle Mechanics (Level 4). Advance your understanding through online learning, block courses, and industry work-based experience, mastering areas such as wheel building, suspension servicing, and e-bike diagnostics for a career in New Zealand’s growing cycle industry.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 17 weeks
This course requires 12 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Perform advanced diagnostic and repair techniques
Carry out diagnostic procedures, repair and/or overhaul a range of bicycle components and systems under broad guidance, and inspect frames and forks.
Customer communication and needs analysis
Effectively communicate with customers to interpret requirements and recommend solutions for bicycle components and systems.
Apply design and ergonomics to fit tuning
What You're Signing Up For
This programme equips experienced bicycle technicians with advanced knowledge and practical expertise in bicycle mechanics. Students learn specialist techniques like wheel building, suspension servicing, frame and fork preparation, and e-bike systems diagnostics. The blended delivery includes online modules, practical block courses in Cromwell, and extensive workplace experience, preparing graduates for senior roles in the bike industry, including management, specialist servicing, and performance teams.
Course Content
- Wheel building
- Suspension servicing
- Electronic shifting systems
- E-Bike introduction and diagnostics
- Road and gravel bike specifics
- Diagnosis, overhaul and repair of a wide range of bicycle components (frames, steering, braking, drive train, wheels, suspension)
- Product-specific mechanical techniques
- Design, selection, fitting and tuning of bicycles for riders
- Professional customer and industry communication
- 160-180 hours of work-based learning in a bicycle workshop
What you need to know first
Completion of the New Zealand Certificate in Bicycle Servicing (Level 3) or equivalent industry experience
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Bicycle industry
Mechanical engineering
Retail and workshop services
Tourism (cycle sector)
Future employment opportunities might be
Senior workshop and retail bicycle mechanic
Unsupervised sole bicycle workshop roles
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.