Calvin Jones is retiring as Park Tool’s director of education after nearly 30 years with the company, capping a 50+ year career that made him one of bike repair’s most trusted voices through Park Tool’s hugely popular videos and guides.
After nearly three decades at Park Tool and more than 50 years in bike maintenance, Calvin Jones is stepping away from his role as director of education, leaving behind one of the most recognizable faces in cycling repair.
Since joining Park Tool in 1997, Jones has become synonymous with practical, no-nonsense mechanical advice.
His instructional videos have helped grow the brand’s YouTube channel to over 900,000 subscribers and roughly 13 million annual views, alongside nearly 200 in-depth online repair guides.
His career began in 1973 and included time as a mechanics instructor at the US Olympic Training Center.
Reflecting on common mistakes, Jones says overconfidence tops the list. “Know your limits,” he advises, adding that the right to repair also means accepting the right to fail.
For home mechanics, he recommends working on friends’ bikes to build experience. For professionals, exposure to a wide range of bikes sharpens skill and judgment.
Preventive maintenance, especially monitoring and replacing chains early, remains his best advice for avoiding long-term costs. As for tools, he is clear: do not skimp on a quality workstand.
On industry trends, Jones warns against letting technology overshadow riding itself. “Don’t let the tech get in the way,” he says. “Ride what you’ve got.”
In retirement, he plans to ride more and continue teaching.
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