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Bike Repair

BIKE CARE IS EASY!

We're often asked how frequently bicycles should be serviced. It's a difficult question to answer because it depends on how and where it's ridden as well as its condition. Assuming the machine is in good working order and that you ride sensibly (i.e. don't abuse your bike) and not in nasty weather a lot (muddy and snowy rides accelerate wear), the following guidelines will keep your two-wheeler running trouble free for years. You'll need some basic tools, lubes, cleaners, rags and know-how.

Tips:

  • Print out this page and attach it to your workbench or toolbox to use as a checklist.
  • These are general service guidelines for road and mountain bikes.
  • Bicycles ridden off road typically require more frequent and extensive service than road models.
  • If you notice problems or have questions about anything on your bicycle, call us and we'll be delighted to advise you on what maintenance is required.
  • If your bike is heavily used, abused or has been crashed, we recommend bringing it in for a thorough check and service to ensure that it's running properly.

Daily

Every Ride

  1. Check tire pressure & add air if needed
  2. Check the tire tread for wear and embedded debris that could cause a flat
  3. Check that the wheel quick releases are tight and that the wheels are secure
  4. Spin wheels looking for wobbles, which indicate you should have your wheel trued
  5. Squeeze brakes to make sure they're grabbing and check to see that the brake pads are in good condition and that they strike the rims (not the tires!)
  6. Compress and release the suspension to check that it's working properly
  7. Check chain & add lube if it looks dry
  8. Make sure you've got your spare tube, tools, pump, etc.

Monthly

Every 500 Miles

  1. Clean the bike with a rag (soap and water if it is really dirty) and inspect the frame and components for signs of wear such as cracks
  2. Wipe the chain and cassette cogs clean with a rag & earth-friendly degreaser and then re-lube
  3. Check the wheels for loose spokes
  4. With a wrench, test the tightness of the following: Crank arms, pedals, chain ring bolts, seat bolt, seat post bolt, stem bolts, handlebar bolts & all accessory mounting bolts/screws
  5. Lube the brake, derailleur, and clip-less pedal pivot points
  6. Lube the cables to prevent binding and check the cables for fraying & rusting. Replace if necessary
  7. Check clip-less pedals and cleats for loose screws/bolts
  8. Maintain & lube your suspension components according to the advice in the owners manual

Six Months

Every 2,500 Miles

  1. Clean and wax the frame to protect the paint/finish (not necessary on bare titanium frames.) Once it's clean, inspect the frame and form for any cracks or damage
  2. Check & replace tires if needed. Also, check your spare tube & patch kit to make sure the spare holds air and the kit has glue & patches
  3. Check the hubs, bottom bracket, headset. Adjust & overhaul as needed
  4. Check all cables & housings for fraying, breaks, rust, and corrosion and replace if necessary
  5. Check for worn brake pads and replace if needed. Also, replace worn handlebar tape or grips
  6. Check for chain, cassette cog, and chain ring wear and replace worn parts as required
  7. Clean the drive train (chain, chain rings, cassette, front & rear derailleurs) with biodegradable solvent and rags
  8. Maintain and lube your suspension components according to the advice in the owners manual

Yearly

Every 6,000 Miles

  1. Check all bearing systems: hubs, bottom bracket, headset & pedals. Adjust and/or overhaul as needed
  2. Check all cables & housings for fraying, breaks, rust, & corrosion. Replace if necessary
  3. Replace brake pads, rubber brake hoods, and handlebar tape if necessary
  4. Clean and check wheels carefully for signs of wear such as worn sidewalls (braking surface) or cracks at the spoke nipples
  5. Check the hubs, bottom bracket, headset. Adjust and/or overhaul as needed
  6. Overhaul the pedals to check the bearings and add fresh grease. If you're using toe straps, check them for wear and replace if needed
  7. Maintain & lube your suspension components according to the advice of the owner's manual
  8. Lube your frame & home pump