Just like a car, your bike needs regular servicing to stay in top shape. It keeps things running smoothly, extends the life of your parts, and makes your ride safer and more enjoyable. You've likely invested a lot in your bike—so a little maintenance goes a long way!
In this article, we’ll teach you about:
- How often you should be servicing your bike
- How much it costs to service your bike at 99 Bikes
- What tools you’ll need to service your bike at home
- How to clean your bike
- When you should be replacing your bike’s brake pads
- 99 Bikes’ Maintenance Classes
How often should I service my bike?
To keep your bike running smoothly, lasting longer, and staying safe, regular servicing is key. The more you ride, the more wear your bike takes—so more frequent check-ups are a good idea. Even if you only ride now and then, parts still need a bit of love from time to time. Servicing options can depend on how you ride and how well you clean your bike, but as a general guide, we recommend:
- Ride once a week - Standard Service every 6 months
- Ride 3-4 times a week - Standard Service every 3 Months
- Everyday - Standard Service every 3 months + Ultimate Service every 12-18 months
In addition to the above, we recommend you wash your bike and lubricate your chain once a week.
Click here find out more about our servicing options, or click here to book a service.
How much does it cost to service your bike?
If you can service your bike at home you can save money on labour, but will still have the cost of new parts and lube etc. At home you can complete the following maintenance with relative ease;
- Clean and degrease your frame
- Pump up tyres
- Tighten cables
- Check brake pads and cables
- Clean and lubricate drivetrain
Shop Pumps Shop Tyres Shop Tubes Shop Brake Cables
To get your bike serviced by one of our expert mechanics at your local 99 Bikes, prices vary for service type - visit our workshop page for details.
What tools do I need to service my bike?
You can service most parts of your bike with just a few tools. You could purchase a tool kit that will cover all of your basics, or piece together your own kit. Our mechanics recommend that you have a:
- Torque Wrench
- Pedal Spanner
- Bike Wash
- Grease
- Allen Keys
- Clean Cloths
- Degreaser for drivetrain
- Chain Lubricant
Shop Tools Shop Multi-tools Shop Cleaning Shop Lubricants
How to clean my bike?
It’s important to clean your bike every ride to get rid of dirt and debris to ensure your bike is clean and operates smoothly. You should regularly give your bike a thorough clean and you’ll need a few essentials to do this properly:
- Water
- Brush for cassette/chainrings
- Toothbrush or fine wire brush for cleaning the chain
- Bike wash fluid
- Chain cleaning device or a stiff-bristled brush
- Chain lube
- Microfibre rag
- Chamois leather
- Degreaser
- Bike wash fluid
- Bike stand (Optional)
Shop Cleaning Shop WorkStands Shop Lubricants Shop Brushes
For more information or advice, visit or call your local 99 Bikes.
When should I replace my bike's brake pads?
Brakes are one of the most important parts on your bike, they allow you to stop and ride safely. You should check your brakes regularly or when you notice they don’t have the usual responsive feel.
Rim Brakes: Your brake pads will have tread on the contact side and when that tread becomes smooth it is time for some new brake pads. You should check monthly or every 500km.
Disc Brakes: Standard disc brake pads will have 3-4mm of compound and when this is worn down to less than 2mm you should consider changing your brake pads. As with rim brakes, you should check monthly or every 500km.
For more information or advice, visit or call your local 99 Bikes.
Attend A Maintenance Class
Still eager to learn more? Come join us for one of our Maintenance classes, where our expert mechanics teach hands on basics about maintaining your bike. Plus this is free if you're a Club 99 member!
