Bike maintenance

Keep the bike ready so practice and race weekends are about riding, not surprises. This cadence chart is a starting framework — adjust to your bike, miles, and shop recommendations.

• Before every ride (ABCs)

  • Air — tire pressure appropriate for the trail and rider weight
  • Brakes — lever feel and pad contact
  • Chain & cassette — quick wipe and lube check; dropper and shifting smoke test

• After every ride

  • Wipe mud and grit from frame, drivetrain, and brakes
  • Note new noises, rubs, or soft spots for the next service window

• About once a month

  • Deeper drivetrain clean and re-lube
  • Bolt check (stem, bars, seatpost, bottle cages, rotors)
  • Inspect tires for cuts and sidewall wear

• About every two months

  • Brake pad wear check; bleed or service if spongy
  • Cable / housing or electronic shifting battery check

• About every three months / mid-season

  • Hub and headset check for play
  • Suspension service interval per manufacturer (if applicable)
  • Replace worn chain before it eats the cassette

Chart seeded from the Mimics-style seasonal plan. Expand with torque specs, product links, and coach tips over time.