Hot Wheels

Yes, we agree that this is an odd category. But where else can we put this fascinating and strangely useful set of classes — ranging from repairing your motorcycle to restoring a caboose?

After your class you can go home to your jalopy that’s probably held together with bailing wire and duct tape and actually fix it! All your friends will be very impressed.

Sign Up for a Hot Wheels Class Now! >>

Sheet Metal Forming with Evan Wilcox
Previous experience suggested.
Prequisite:  Metalworking experience
This class is a hands-on introduction to skills that are invaluable for fabricating parts for motorcycles, cars, airplanes, and sculptures. Learn from an experienced professional motorcycle builder how to form sheet metal into tanks, fenders, and fairings, using gas-aluminum welding, planishing hammer, English wheel, and hand forming tools. Everyone will have a chance to make his or her own project. Evan Wilcox will provide instruction during some classes; others will be lab time, when students can use The Crucible’s equipment to work on their own projects. (See schedule for details.)

The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance & Repair
Entry-level class
Learn how to repair your motorcycle and avoid paying the top dollar that motorcycle shops charge. If you have a bike that you want to learn to fix or are interested in owning a bike and don’t want to rely on someone else to keep it on the road, this is the class for you. Generally motorcycles are simpler and easier to work on than cars.  In this class we will cover a number of different bikes. With the consent of the instructor, you will be able to work on your own bike in class or choose to work on one of the bikes provided by the instructor. If you choose to work on your own bike, you must buy any materials needed.  
Note: If working on your own bike, you must buy any materials needed.  

Continuing Techniques in Motorcycle Repair
Previous experience required.
Prerequisite: The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance & Repair or instructor’s approval
This is a class for those who have taken The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance or others with some motorcycle-repair experience. You’ll be able to work on your own bikes in the motorcycle shop, receiving advice and assistance from the instructor. If you are interested in doing more serious engine or frame repairs, please contact the instructor before signing up.

Sign Up for a Hot Wheels Class Now! >>

Art of the One-Speed: Building a Bicycle Frame (Welding)
Previous experience required
Prerequisites: Beginning TIG, The Mother Machines
Have you ever wanted to make your own bicycle frame?  Here is your chance.  In this class you will make a one-speed, chrome moly steel, mountain bike frame using proven geometric principles.  Learn about TIG welding, brazing, machining of tubes, bicycle geometry, materials, construction techniques, fixtures, and jigs. You’ll leave this class with your own one-of-a-kind bicycle frame.

Youth Tune-up: Your Bicycle (Youth)
Entry-level class
This class is open to younger students, ages 8 - 12.
If a bike starts creaking, clicking, squeaking, or wobbling, it needs a tune-up! Learn to do your own bicycle maintenance and repairs. You will learn how brakes, shifters, drivetrain, and wheels work, and what to do when they stop working well. Each student will receive a box of tools.

Youth Rocket Car (Youth)
Entry-level class
This class is open to younger students, ages 8 - 12.
Construct and race your very own rocket car! You will learn how to use basic tools as well as gain valuable experience with building and measuring skills while having a super-fun time.

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