Mountain bike maintenance: how often, what does it cost, and why do you wait too long?
Your bike still rides. Brakes still work. So why would you bring it in? That exact thinking ends up costing you more in the long run. Here's what you need to know about mountain bike maintenance — and why it pays off.
Your bike is still running. Until it isn't.
Your bike still rides. Brakes still work. So why would you bring it in?
Recognisable. And exactly the reason most mountain bikers wait too long with maintenance. Until something snaps, a repair costs three times as much, or worse — you're stuck in the middle of a trail.
Here's what you need to know about mountain bike maintenance — no unnecessary fuss.
How often does a mountain bike need maintenance?
That depends on how often and where you ride. As a rule of thumb:
- Every 3 months or every 30–40 riding hours: minor service — lube the chain, check bolts, inspect brakes
- 1 to 2 times a year: full service — complete inspection, adjust gears and brakes, true wheels
- After lots of wet rides or heavy trail sessions: always clean and check suspension seals for dry running
Full-suspension riders need slightly more attention than hardtail riders, due to the extra bearings and rear shock.
What goes wrong when you wait?
Delaying maintenance seems cheap — but rarely is. A few examples:
Chain — a worn chain also wears your cassette and chainring. A new chain costs next to nothing. New drivetrain components including labour: easily three to four times more.
Brakes — worn-out brake pads also damage the rotor. Two new pads are cheap. A new rotor isn't.
Suspension — shocks that run too long without a service start leaking. A full rebuild is significantly more expensive than a preventive lower leg service.
Good maintenance isn't a luxury. It's simply the cheapest way to keep your bike running well for longer.
What does a service cost at Indoor Mountainbike?
We work with fixed service packages, so you know exactly what to expect upfront.
Clean & Lube — €29.95 Full bike clean, drivetrain rinse, chain lube, suspension seal wipe-down. The perfect reset after a few wet rides.
Minor Service — €39.95 Full front-to-back inspection, tighten all bolts, assess and lube chain. Approx. 30 minutes. Full-suspension surcharge +€15.
Major Service — €59.95 Detailed inspection, frame check, adjust gears and brakes, true wheels and tension spokes. Approx. 45 minutes. Full-suspension surcharge +€15.
Prices exclude consumables and parts.
What about suspension service?
That's a separate story — but an important one. We handle suspension service for Fox, RockShox and Öhlins, from a quick air can service to a full rebuild. If your shock is starting to leak or no longer feels smooth, it's time.
Not sure if your suspension needs attention? Come in for a check. No charge.
We only work on mountain bikes
That's not a small detail. Our mechanics ride mountain bikes themselves. They know the specific demands of MTB components and everything that comes through our mountain bike workshop. They understand how suspension should perform, and can spot what's wrong at a glance. Your bike isn't squeezed in between a city bike and a kids' bike. Here, it's exactly where it belongs.
Don't have a mountain bike yet? Read our guide on what to look for when buying a mountain bike near Almere first.
Book a drop-off appointment
Bring your bike in when it suits you. Book a drop-off appointment online and we'll have it ready when you come to collect.
Indoor Mountainbike — E. Heimansweg 8, 1331 AP Almere MTB workshop, shop and bike park — all under one roof.
