If you know the bartender at your local pub, you get stronger pours. If you know the waiter at your pizza place, your order goes in first. If you know your local shop mechanic, you're likely to get similar perks.

Supporting your local bike shop is one of the better investments you can make for your bike, and your time. It can be the difference between good service and great service, or whether or not they unlock the door to sell you a tube 3 minutes after close.

Read on for our top 5 tips to: get great service, make your mechanic a friend, and earn your bike some benefits.

Before

1. Bring in a Clean Bike

Do you brush your teeth before you go to the dentist? Extend a similar courtesy to your mechanic. Working on unspeakably filthy bikes is not something bike techs relish.

2. Call Ahead

If you get a flat, just pop-in. However, if you need a full tune-up or other large project, pick up the phone. Your shop may appreciate it and you won't be separated from your bike any longer than necessary.

During

3. Ask For The "Service Department"

Before you spend 3 long minutes making a dozen weird grinding and squeaking noises to describe your problem, make sure you're telling the right person. The front counter staffer might not need to know what the new click sounds like. Save it for the mechanic.

4. Let Them Do Their Job

You are there for a reason. These people are professionals. Avoid the urge to self-diagnose, or hover uncomfortably close during inspection or repair.

After

5. Say Thanks

If your project was especially nasty (like a stuck seatpost) or they really go above and beyond, offer beer or cookies (or kale chips) to show your appreciation. Most shops we know discourage cash tips, but an edible in-kind donation can go a long way.