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With over 30 years in the bike industry, Jason Wilmshurst of Bike Clinic has seen it all, from analogue classics to the rise of the e-bike. A familiar face along the Hauraki Rail Trail, Jason combines decades of mechanical know-how with a passion for helping people stay in the saddle, wherever their wheels take them.
Whether he’s repairing bikes from his Waihi Beach workshop or supporting riders out on the Trail with his mobile clinic, Jason’s love for problem-solving and people is at the heart of everything he does.
We caught up with Jason to chat about how Bike Clinic came to life, what he loves most about his work, and his best tips for keeping your ride smooth and stress-free.
You’re a familiar face along the Hauraki Rail Trail. What first sparked your passion for bikes, and how did Bike Clinic come to life?
I've cycled all my life. Around 1990, I started working in a bike store as a trainee mechanic. A few years later, I moved to Auckland and joined one of the big bike importers, working in customer service and as the mountain bike team’s race mechanic. By 2020, I was ready for a career change and decided to pick up the tools again. I noticed a gap in mobile bike servicing, and so Bike Clinic was born.
You’ve had over 30 years of experience in the bike world. What’s changed the most in that time, and what’s stayed the same?
No one will be surprised that the biggest change has been the rise of the e-bike. It’s brought so many people back to cycling. These bikes now make up about 80% of my work.
That said, I still love to ride and work on analogue bikes. There’s something timeless about their reliability and simplicity.
Can you walk us through a typical day, whether you’re in the workshop or out on the Trail?
Every day is different. I might be working from my Waihi Beach workshop one day, and the next I’ll be out with my purpose-built trailer servicing school bike fleets. Weekends could see me at events or races, tucked away in the bush somewhere. I love that my “workshop” is mobile and always changing.
What do you love most about working on bikes and helping people get the best out of their ride?
I love a good challenge and solving problems. At events, we’re often dealing with last-minute issues and limited parts, so being a little old-school helps. I can usually get people back on the bike to finish their ride.
I also enjoy helping riders get more from their bikes, whether it’s adjusting the fit, offering home maintenance advice, or teaching basic bike first aid before they head out on one of NZ’s great rides.
Do you have a memorable story from someone you’ve helped on the Trail?
Over summer, I met a couple of American cyclists who were struggling to find a place to pitch their tent. A few quick phone calls and we found them a local spot for the night. Sometimes, it’s not about fixing bikes, it’s about helping people have the best possible experience.
What’s the most overlooked part of bike maintenance? Any top tips for riders heading out?
Tyre pressure. It’s critical. I’ve seen so much damage from under-inflated tyres and heard plenty of stories about riders getting stranded. For tubed tyres, aim for at least 30 PSI. If you’re running tubeless, talk to your mechanic as pressures can vary. And learn some basic bike first aid. It’s pointless having tools if you don’t know how to use them.
What kind of rider are you when you’re not fixing bikes?
I’m all of the above - cruiser, trail tackler, occasional adrenaline seeker. I avoid road riding though as there are too many distracted drivers. When my wife and I can find the time, we love riding together.
What do you love most about the Hauraki Rail Trail? Any favourite Sections or hidden gems?
The Waihi to Karangahake Gorge section will never get old. The scenery, the history, it’s magic. I’m hoping a connection between Waihi and Waihi Beach is on the horizon, as it would be stunning.
Coffee-wise, I rate Ti Tree Café and Waihi Gold. And don’t just ride past the Victoria Battery, stop, walk around, and imagine the village that once lived and worked there. It’s mind-boggling.
Is there a tool or piece of gear you swear by these days?
I’ve started using mini electronic pumps. They fit in your hand and save your arms! I’ve invested a lot in my tools because my customers have invested a lot in their bikes. They deserve the best service I can offer.
And lastly, if your toolkit had a personality, what would it be?
It’s a chaotic but genius mess. But I get it done.
You can find more information about Bike Clinic here.
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