Bicycle Special Components Repairer

Bicycle Mechanics build, service and repair bicycles and advance bicycle componentry and are able to install and calibrate top-level electronic group sets, service complex suspension systems and hydraulic brakes as well as building high-performance wheel sets.

Although cycling in South Africa has experienced exceptionally large growth over the recent past, the maintenance and repair of bicycles is unarguably regarded by many as the dark side of the industry. This is largely due to the fact that bicycle technician training is continuing in an informal, haphazard manner which is not conducive to meeting customer expectations and industry requirements. Bicycle technicians are currently mostly either self-taught, and/or taught in-house through informal, un-structured means which offer no certification or recognition of learning achievement and no articulation to other occupational qualifications, thereby limiting career opportunities and personal growth and development. This qualification is aimed at the school leaders who have an interest in cycling especially from deep rural communities where bicycle commuting is a means of transport. Persons currently employed as Special Components Repairers with years of working experience but with no formal recognition will also have access to this qualification. Typical employment will be possible as bicycle mechanics with large, chain type retailers or smaller independent cycle shops which have a workshop section and operating as entrepreneurs supplying repair and servicing services to clients nationally. This qualification is the first of its type in South Africa. Currently; bicycle mechanic training is offered under licence from countries such as the United Kingdom (UK). Learners will benefit from receiving recognition for achievement of this qualification on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). The cycling industry is very dynamic and technology driven within an environment wherein technology is becoming more and more expensive and sophisticated. Industry, employers and consumers will benefit by having confidence in a cohort of nationally qualified bicycle mechanics. The development of this qualification will contribute to the professionalisation of the bicycle technician and the occupation through the acknowledgement and certification of learning achievements, the restoration in customer confidence in the maintenance and repair abilities of qualified technicians, and the establishment of training standards and practices in the bicycle maintenance and repair industry. This qualification supports the long term provincial strategy of cities/metros to cut down on emissions in support of a cleaner and greener environment. The health and wellbeing benefits of cycling have been extensively researched. South Africa is the host of some of the two biggest international cycling events which attract international and local tourism and participants who will need repair and servicing of bicycles; there is an increase in imports and sales of bicycles in South Africa contributing to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • Level 1 with Communication. Or • 3 years working experience in a bicycle workshop.

1. Conduct advanced componentry disassembly, servicing/replacement, installation and adjustment of any two of the following advanced components: hydraulic brakes, suspension system, electronic group set, rear shock bushing replacement and pivot servicing.