When Should I Service My Ride?

WHEN SHOULD I SERVICE MY RIDE?

HELPFUL TIPS:
These are general guidelines for road and mountain bikes. Assuming the bike is in good working order and that you ride sensibly (i.e. not abusing your bike) and not in sloppy weather, the following guidelines will help to keep your machine running smooth for many years.
Bicycles ridden off-road tend to require more frequent and extensive service than road bikes.
If you notice problems or have questions about anything on your bicycle, call us and we will be more than happy to help you figure out what maintenance needs to be done.
If your bike has been heavily abused, we recommend bringing it in for a thorough check and service to ensure that it is safe and running smooth.

EVERY RIDE

Check tire pressure and inflate to recommended pressure as needed.
Inspect tires and tread for wear and embedded objects that may cause a flat.
Check that all quick releases are tight and that the wheels are secure in the frame.
Pull the brakes to make sure that they are contacting the rims properly and not rubbing the tires.
Compress the suspension (if applicable) to make sure that it is getting the full amount of travel and is functioning properly.
Check the chain for damaged links and lube if dry (excess lube is not necessary and will only collect more dirt).
Make sure you have a spare tube, tools, pump, etc.

MONTHLY

(or 500 miles)

Clean the bike with a rag (or soap and water if it is muddy) and inspect the frame and components for signs of wear such as cracks.
Wipe the chain and cassette cogs with a rag and light degreaser and re-lube the chain.
Check the wheels for loose spokes that may make the wheel weaker.
Check the following bolts to make sure they are tight: crank bolts, pedals, seat-bolt, stem bolts, handlebar binder bolts, and all other accessories.
Lube the brake, derailleur and clipless pedal pivots.
Lube the cables to prevent binding and check for fraying/rusty cables and replace them.
Check clipless pedals and cleats for loose bolts/screws.
Maintain and lube your suspension components according to their owner's manuals.

SIX MONTHS

(or 2,500 miles)

Clean and wax the frame to protect the paint/finish. Once it's clean, inspect all areas of the frame for damage (such as cracks or fatigue).
Check and replace tires if needed. Check that your spare tube is good and you have enough patches/glue.
Check the hubs, bottom bracket, and headset: adjust and/or overhaul as needed.
Check all cables and housing for fraying, breaks, rust and corrosion and replace as needed.
Check brake pads for wear. If grooves are gone, replace them.
Check the drivetrain (chain, chainrings and cassette) for wear. Replace them if worn out.
Clean the drivetrain with a biodegradable solvent and rags.
Maintain and lube your suspension components (if applicable) according to their owner's manuals.

YEARLY

(or 6,000 miles)

Check all bearing systems: hubs, bottom bracket, headset, and pedals. Adjust/overhaul them as needed.
Check all cables and housing for fraying, breaks, rust and corrosion. Replace if necessary.
Replace brake pads, rubber brake hoods and handlebar tape if necessary.
Clean the wheels and carefully inspect for signs of wear such as worn sidewalls or cracks at the spoke nipples.
Check the hubs, bottom bracket, and headset and adjust/overhaul as needed.
Overhaul pedals to check the bearings and add new grease. For toeclips, inspect the straps and replace them as needed.