Meet Todd Stoughton
Todd brings over 40 years of expertise to the Bowen Island Bike Community. As the lead mechanic at Bowen eBikes he raises the island’s bike repair scene to rival any shop in Vancouver. Whether you’re searching for a qualified bike mechanic, a bike maintenance instructor, or just someone to talk shop; Todd is that seasoned professional you’re looking for.
A Lifelong Journey with Bikes: From Early Days to Island Expertise
Todd’s story with bicycles began in his early teens. Long before the days of helicopter parents and structured playdates. As a kid, two wheels cruising expanded his horizons. He discovered then, and continues to say, “It’s the closest thing a human can get to having wings.” Bikes weren’t just transportation, they were liberation. In his early 20’s he walked into Robson Cycles and landed a mechanic job on the spot. Afterward, he dove into the early mountain bike racing scene on the North Shore. He was also a first-generation bike courier, thriving in the adrenaline of urban deliveries.
Through the better part of four decades working in shops from the Lower mainland to Victoria, Todd has served in many roles; Production mechanic, Head mechanic/tech, Assembler, Wheelbuilder, Service manager, Service writer, Instructor and Community cycling event co-ordinator.
No matter where he went, he always contributed to a community’s self-reliance. More on this later as I asked him his philosophy on Replace Vs Repair; a bike shop classic question.
Expert Certifications and Lifelong Learning
Inspired by the latest innovations in bike tech, Todd pursued learning to stay abreast of industry technology growth.He’s been learning both on the job, and from industry recognized courses for decades. Each job is another tool in his belt of knowledge.
He’s platinum-certified in Shimano S-TEC, completing every module. He’s completed equivalents for SRAM Technical University, Specialized e-bike tech, and Bosch systems.
Repair vs. Replace Philosophy
Daily, Todd weighs repair versus replace parts based on multiple factors. He arrives at the most economical solution for the customer after a review of their bike. He considers things like labor cost, parts availability, and longevity, all to arrive at a decision that is best for the customer. The example he gave me was if a part takes longer to fix, at a shop rate, than the cost of the part, it is almost always worth replacing with a new part. Replacement often ensures longer lasting performance without overcharging for the shop rate of trying to fix something, while not being able to guarantee the life of the fix. But, every job is unique, so this analysis is performed everytime a new fix comes into the shop.
“If a fix fails the customer, it’s on you,” he warned. “You’re the last person to touch the customers bike before it leaves the shop, so you better get it right.”
I asked him about trust. What would you say to people who say, “Mechanics only replace parts, because it makes more money.”
He laughed, and told me he prioritizes education. “I try to educate and get as much information in the customers hands so there’s no grey areas. I’ll make recommendations; but ultimately it’s up to them”.
Instructor Todd: Yes, I run classes with purpose
Todd runs bike maintenance courses taught like real-world scenarios. If you’ve ever dreaded getting a flat on the side of a road; fear no more. He teaches the flat tire course for that exact purpose, to mimic roadside fixes. For advanced sessions like the bike brake bleed courses, wheel truing, or advanced overhaul courses, you’ll use hoists and tools like your home shop. If you need tools, or stands for your home shop, yes, Bowen eBikes sells those as well.
He adapts courses to mixed skill levels so both beginners and intermediates leave confident without feeling over or under paced. His philosophy: “knowledge is power, and seeing students’ uncertainty vanish, brings me immense satisfaction.” He takes this approach to learning with customers of the maintenance shop as well; “it isn’t guess work.” he tells me, “the more you can educate your customers, the happier everyone is.”
On a personal note: I’ve noticed this educator inside of Todd, ready to leap out at any moment. He will start talking about how a specific fix he’s done needs to be adopted by the industry now. He won’t stop, until we’ve talked and he’s explained in detail, and he knows I understand what he’s talking about. He’ll get specific, and at the end I always feel like an expert.
Beyond the Workshop
When not wrenching, you’ll find him on his eMtn Bike, soaking in the natural beauty. On Bowen Island, this small-community vibe shines through. He enjoys the pleasant community interactions.
The social atmosphere of shop life is a major plus. He encourages you to come on down and say hi and chat all things bike related; I know you’re sure to get an education. The bike shop feels like neighbourhood fabric, attracting like-minded folks.
An Entrepreneur
Building the maintenance department, at Bowen eBikes, from nothing into a full-service hub, has been a joy for Todd. “We’re able to handle suspension, brakes, tubes, and anything else a mainland shop can. Ownership’s support in acquiring top tools has made it possible, to bring Vancouver-level service right onto our shores.”
Bowen eBikes launched it’s public bike maintenance devision officially June 8th 2025.
Todd’s Top Bowen Island Recommendations
For what to do on Bowen Island without a car, Todd recommends starting at Snug Cove and biking to Killarney Lake. He also enjoys heading across the island to Cape Roger Curtis where the Sea Walk provide views of the ocean. These rides also highlight the island’s beauty.
Favourite Bike Maintenance Tips from Todd
Todd always advises checking if your front wheel axel is locked in place before any ride. It’s a critical safety step every time you mount up. Also, testing brakes prior to any ride, since unseen issues could arise between uses.