The Workshop

No, you don't need to have any experience using tools or working on your bike to be able to use the space to learn. That is exactly what the workshop is designed for — to be able to either do what you already know, or to learn new skills and how to maintain your bike yourself. We are here to help guide you through the process, and the community at RSW is here to share knowledge, experience and skills. We also run workshops on specific skills and processes that complement a member's progress.

Yes, we have almost every tool you will need, however there are always exceptions. We recommend that when you book online before coming, you list what you will be working on and if you require anything specific. In the instance we don't have it, if it is something that the membership will get value from we can either purchase it, or if you purchase we can buy it off you for the workshop. If it's very specific, it will be expected that you provide it for your use as needed.

Yes, if you book to use the workshop when the workshop manager is present, we can help guide and support you through the task at hand. You will still need to complete the work, and there is always the possibility it may not work the first time, but that is part of the process. The most important item that answers nearly all of the questions you will have is a good workshop manual for your specific model of bike.

Annual membership (either via monthly subscription or annual payment) includes access to the workshop and use of all the tools and equipment. Membership also includes priority and/or discounted access to workshops, classes and events, and a 10% discount in the restaurant while your membership is active. Membership does not include parts, oil, tyre disposal, or storage — bike storage is available as a separate add-on.

We provide some consumables such as zip ties, grease, chain cleaner and WD40. You should expect to provide specific items for your bike like parts, nuts and bolts, electrical terminals, electrical wire, and oil.

Storage is not included in memberships. Bike storage is available as a separate add-on for $65/month. We have a secure offsite location accessed via the workshop manager with 24 hours notice.

First time wrenchers — we suggest you start small and allow at least 2–4 hours for your first session. You need the time to get familiar with the workshop and orient yourself around the task at hand. Think about doing one task at a time to build your knowledge of the bike's mechanics — things like bleeding the lines, checking the oil, replacing clutch cables, or whatever you need. A comprehensive workshop manual for your specific model of bike is essential.

A safe ride is a solid base for a smart ride. We believe wrenching is good for the soul and just like your soul it should be maintained. This means looking after your bike, making sure it rides well and safe before thinking about changing the look of it. This is your workshop to do what you want, however "mechanics before aesthetics" — like "form follows function" — is a philosophy to building that we encourage and support.

You can't start the bike in the workshop. You can't paint. Nearly everything else you can do, depending on your skill and commitment.

Yes, however your friend will need to also have a membership and be inducted into the space.

It is recommended that you book to ensure you get the time that you want without interruption, however drop-ins are always welcome pending availability.

Email workshop@risingsunworkshop.com or call (02) 5657 2722. Monthly subscriptions can be cancelled anytime with 30 days notice. Annual subscriptions run for the full 12-month term.

Yes you can.

We have many mechanic friends we can recommend to help you finish the task. We will help you to the best of our ability, but you will need to do the work — or we can put you in touch with someone who can.

The RSW Historic Vehicle Club membership ($60/year, $30 for active workshop members) is required for Historic Vehicle Registration under the NSW scheme. It covers Step 3 of the registration process. You'll also need a hand-written pink slip, proof of purchase, and to complete the declaration forms with us at RSW before visiting Service NSW.

An Assisted Hour gives you dedicated one-on-one time with the workshop manager. They'll guide you through your specific task, teach you techniques, and help troubleshoot problems. Available Wednesday to Sunday between 10am and 6pm. You can book 1 to 4 hours at $50 per hour. After purchasing, email workshop@risingsunworkshop.com to arrange your preferred time.