Welcome
ABI was born from a love of both bicycles and teaching. My 30+ years of experience as a Professional Bicycle Mechanic and 20+ years of experience teaching support a unique ability to help anyone understand bicycles better, and have lots of fun in the process.
~ Jenny Kallista, Instructor
safety first
ABI has safety as a top priority. Be assured we always have everyone's health in mind as we continue to learn, grow, and make the world around us better each day.
a little bit about classes at ABI
to answer some FAQs ...
ABI is a different little school!
Class size is small (which contributes to quick-filling classes!). Students love this feature, as it allows for super individualized attention and a lot of fun getting to know your fellow students.
Classes involve a mix of lecture, demonstration and hands-on, with a dose of history, some lore, myriad techniques, and a special inside perspective on the bike industry. Whether you are seeking employment in a bike shop, wanting to hone your current skills, or just want to learn how your own bike works, a truly unique experience awaits!
The school is located just a little ways from the fun mountain town of Asheville, NC (just 20 minutes from the heart of downtown), in a rural, beautiful rolling countryside setting with gorgeous views and a peaceful atmosphere. There are loads of lodging options, some even within walking distance to the school, and everything needed is close at hand.
Registration is done through emailing directly, as it helps to have a little background about students so we can assure the school is right for you. It might not be, and that's ok! If you like a more structured, typical institutional layout and would prefer a larger group setting, or if ABI's classes are full, try my friends in Ashland Oregon at United Bicycle Institute, they are truly wonderful (and if you are a Veteran looking to use your GI benefits, go there as they are all set up for it with a long-running program).
Please check details on classes under the 2025 Classes and Schedule tab, click on More Events and scroll down to Additional Details on Classes.
Further questions can be answered by emailing appalachianbicycleinstitute@gmail.com
a bit about your instructor
Jenny Kallista
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
accumulated professional shop employment since 1992
BSE Certification, Barnett Bicycle Institute 2004 CO
USAC Bill Woodul Race Mechanic Clinic 2014 CO
Park Tool Tech Summit 2011 & 2013 IL, DC
SRAM Technical University, 2007, 2011, 2018 CO
Official Team Mechanic for Ironman Races 2011-2013
Mechanic for Roger C Peace Paracycling Team 2012 SC
TREK University WI
Specialized University SBCU - Morgan Hill CA
Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo, Magura, Rock Shox, FOX, BOSCH,
Enduro Bearings, FSA, Rotor, SR Suntour, Cane Creek, Mavic,
and many other manufacturer-specific trainings
Development and implementation of the
Level One Mechanics Certification Program for the PBMA
Founding member of the
Professional Bicycle Mechanics Association
TEACHING BICYCLE MECHANICS SINCE 2003:
Outdoor Program Bicycle Class, Garrett College, MD
Asheville School Bike Club
UNCA Asheville Bike Club
University of South Carolina Bicycle Shop Program
Asheville Women’s Prestige-Subaru Racing Team
Pure Velo Women's Race Team
Blue Ridge Bicycle Club, NC
Asheville Mountain Sports Festival
Madison WI Police Department
Allegany College, Cumberland MD
United States Capitol Police Department DC
+ countless bike shop classes
Served as race technician for many local camps and races
Conceived and co-sponsored the WNC Bike Expo 2010, featuring local shops, manufacturers, and seminars on bicycle topics
a little more about me, Jenny
I fell in love with bikes very early in my life; I was 4 when I learned to ride a bicycle. My papa taught me how to fix a flat tire when I was a little kid, and also taught me how to keep my bike running well. I rode my bike everywhere and didn't own a car until I was 25. I am 100% Czech by heritage, and I love the bike culture there. I have a degree in philosophy from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, my hometown.
Asheville, NC beckoned to me in 1997 to come take advantage of the beautiful mountain landscape and to pursue glass art. Upon arrival, I worked as a professional furnace glassblower and also as a professional welder and steel sculptor in my early years in WNC.
These days in addition to my love for bicycles, I have been pursuing ceramics, gardening, birding, travel, and adventure motorcycling for fun, sharing my life with a beloved partner and pets.
I've written many articles for various bicycle-oriented publications, been a guest on various bicycle-oriented podcasts, and attended countless industry events over the years. I continue to enjoy working towards developing and supporting budding, amateur and professional bicycle mechanics in every way possible.