Bike dropping to bits? Don’t know one end of a spanner from the other? Get your grommets and widgets mixed up? Maybe you need the professional assistance of the Park Tool School…

The PTS is a joint scheme between Park Tool (naturally enough) and top cycle maintenance trainer Promech. Promech’s based at a purpose-built bike workshop in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. It’s been delivering bike maintenance courses to the trade and public since January, and has now teamed up with Park Tool to provide intensive two-day maintenance and repair courses to the public.

You’ll learn basic mechanical skills, as well as detailed instructions for repairing and maintaining wheels, bearing assemblies, braking and shifting systems. In fact, “everything you need to know to keep your bicycle rolling smoothly and safely,” it says here. Upon completion you’ll a certificate of attendance, a Park Tool Student Manual and goodie bag.

The courses start in February 2004 and will also run in March, May, July, September and November. Cost is £180, which might sound like a lot but you’ll end up saving a whole load of money by being able to do nearly everything yourself. We’ve booked ourselves in already – we’ll give you the full low-down when we’re done…

More details and bookings from Promech on 01296 395333/www.promech.co.uk or www.ultimatepursuits.co.uk.