Caring for your Bike was the theme this week at two mobile Shimano Service Centers in the Swiss city of Zurich, which will host the 2024 UCI Road and Para-cycling Road World Championships next month.
To celebrate the final countdown to the start of this event (21-29 September) bike components manufacturer Shimano set up the service centers in two locations frequently used by Zurich’s bike users: the Bullingerplatz and Europaplatz, which is just in front of the city’s main railway station.
At Bullingerplatz on Tuesday 27 and Europaplatz on Wednesday 28 August, four representatives from Shimano – including two mechanics – were on hand from 7am to 6pm to provide free bike checks and emphasise the importance of caring for bikes to ensure safe and pleasurable riding.
Tessa Bos, Team Lead Events Shimano Europe Group, said the service was a way of thanking Zurich residents for opening up their city to athletes, teams, officials, media and fans.
“With the 2024 UCI Road and Para-cycling Road World Championships fast approaching, Shimano wanted to give back to the people of Zurich. While it’s up to you to keep your bike well-maintained, professional help is always very welcome. That’s why we’ve introduced our mobile Shimano Service Center, offering the care your bike needs on the go.”
She added: “This week, we serviced many bikes for commuters and residents, completely free of charge, along with a complimentary cup of quality coffee while they waited.
“We conducted a thorough inspection, including the brakes, chain, gear shifting functionality, tyre pressure, and axle security, and ensured that all essential bolts are properly torqued. Just remember to regularly check your bike to ensure a safe ride!”
More than 250 bikes were serviced over the two days using the M-check pattern (from the front hub to the back of the bike). Ungreased chains proved to be the most frequent problem encountered, and the mechanics took time to explain the importance of checking the chain as part of a regular bike care routine. People on all types of bikes – city bikes, E-bikes, children’s bikes and road bikes - made use of the free service offered by Shimano. Most visitors to the service centers were commuters but there were also several bike packers travelling through Europe. All cyclists are welcome to visit any Shimano Service Center in the city and surrounding areas for professional, high-quality bike maintenance.
A partner of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) since 1999 and a UCI World Cycling Partner since 2021, Shimano is also a main partner of the upcoming UCI World Championships, combining the UCI’s leading annual events for road and para-cycling road for the first time.