What Actually Happens in a Full Bike Service

If you have ever dropped your bike off and wondered what actually happens in a full bike service, here is the short answer. Our mechanics work through the whole bike, front to back, cleaning, checking, adjusting and lubricating every part that moves or wears, then road-test it before you collect it. Cycle Revival is an independent bike shop in Heathfield, East Sussex, and we service bikes of every make and age in our own cycle workshop alongside our new bike sales and bike repairs.

Why it is worth booking

A service is not the same as a repair. A repair fixes one thing that has already gone wrong. A service is a planned check of the whole bike that catches small problems early, keeps everything running smoothly, and stops a worn chain or a dry cable turning into a bigger bill later on. Staying on top of regular bike maintenance also keeps you safe, which is the point Cycling UK make in their guide to routine cycle safety and service checks: a well-maintained bike is far safer and more reliable than a neglected one.

What we check, step by step

Once your bike is up on the stand, here is the kind of work a full bike service goes through. Every bike is different, so the exact jobs vary, but the shape of it is the same.

• Drivetrain and gears. We measure the chain for wear, clean and re-lubricate the chain, cassette and chainrings, then set the gears so every shift lands cleanly.
• Brakes. We check pad wear, set the pads correctly, adjust the cables or bleed hydraulic brakes, and make sure both bite firmly with good lever feel.
• Wheels and tyres. We true the wheels if needed, check the hub bearings, and inspect the tyres for cuts and worn tread before setting them to the right pressure.
• Bearings. The headset and bottom bracket are checked for play and smooth running, then adjusted or re-greased.
• Bolts and finish. We check that the stem, bars, saddle and seatpost bolts are secure, then clean the bike up.

The most important part of what actually happens in a full bike service comes last. Nothing leaves the workshop until one of us has ridden it and is happy the gears, brakes and handling are all as they should be.

Two levels of service

We offer two options so the work matches the bike. A full external service covers everything above and suits a bike in generally good order. A full strip-down clean and rebuild goes further, taking the bike apart for a deep clean and bearing service before it is rebuilt from the ground up, which suits an older bike or one that has been ridden hard through winter. We would rather see the bike before we quote, so once it is on the stand we can tell you what it genuinely needs. There is more on our bike servicing page.

How often should you book one

For most riders a full bike service once a year keeps everything in good order, with a quick check partway through if you ride a lot or through the winter. Slipping gears, soft brakes or new creaks and clicks are all signs it is due. We cover the timing in more detail in our guide on when you should service your bike, and if your bike is getting tired we will give you an honest view on whether it is worth replacing rather than repairing.

Book your bike in

Now you know what actually happens in a full bike service, booking one in is the easy part. A freshly serviced bike runs sweeter, lasts longer and is simply more fun to ride, and we would love to get yours feeling like new again. Call into the friendly workshop here in Heathfield, give us a ring or drop us a message, and we will take care of the rest. We look after riders right across the area, including Uckfield, Hastings and Eastbourne, and we are just as happy looking after electric bikes and folding bikes such as Bromptons as we are your trusty everyday commuter.

We are open Monday to Saturday, 9:00am to 5:30pm, and you are always welcome to pop in for a chat about what your bike needs.

Book your bike in for a service » or get in touch with any questions. You can also call the workshop on 01435 866118, and we will be glad to help.

Frequently asked questions

What is included in a full bike service?

A complete check of every moving and wearing part of the bike: cleaning and lubricating the drivetrain, setting up the gears and brakes, checking the wheels, tyres and bearings, tightening key bolts, and a road test before the bike is handed back.

How much does a full bike service cost?

We prefer to see the bike before quoting, because the fair price depends on its condition and whether any parts need replacing. Bring it into the Heathfield workshop or call 01435 866118 for an accurate estimate.

What is the difference between a service and a repair?

A repair puts right a single fault that has already happened, such as a puncture. A service is a planned check of the whole bike that keeps everything running well and catches wear before it becomes a repair.