Name of company: Otter Bike Works
Name of owner: Elisa Otter
Location/Website/Email/Phone:
Moretown, Vermont
802-522-2704
Description of your business?
Bike Lessons and Bike Mechanic Lessons for Kids and Adults
I offer one-on-one and small group bike riding skill instruction for beginner to intermediate riders on mountain bike trails, and gravel roads in a supportive, personalized setting.
I also teach hands-on bike mechanic skills so you can take care of your bike, fix common issues, and feel more self-sufficient every time you ride.
Who are your customers?
Beginner to intermediate kid and adult riders looking to gain confidence on their mountain, gravel or bike path bikes. Or folks who want to gain knowledge about maintaining and repairing their bikes.
What makes your business unique?
As a certified bike coach and with 20 years of teaching and riding experience, my lessons are fun, engaging and progressive. I offer my services right here in the Mad River Valley.
How long have you been in business?
This is my first official season as Otter Bike Works though I have been offering bike and bike mechanic lessons for eight years.
Personal background:
Grew up in Montpelier
Former professional mountain bike racer
Certified bike coach through Global Syndicate Mountain Bike Coaching (GSMBC)
Worked at Bicycle Express for five years
Former elementary school teacher with a Master’s in Education
Best advice you would give someone starting a business?
Talk about it and seek advice and help from everyone you know.
What do you like best about the business?
I love bringing my life’s work experience and passion all into one place.
What was your first job?
Popcorn girl at the Savoy Theater in Montpelier.
What was your most fun job?
Summer camp counselor.
Claim to fame?
Winning the 2025 Mad River Triathlon!
Also, 2012 XC Mountain Bike National Champion.
What do you like best about The Valley?
Swimming in the Mad River and playing in the mountains.
What new business would you like to see move to The Valley?
Paintball.
When you're not working, what are you doing?
Working on my land and riding my bike or skiing with friends.
Wild Card?
Be aware, I have an identical twin sister.
