Why Free Service Bike Shops Are a Game-Changer for Cyclists

Have you finally decided to be active and repay your debt to mother nature? A bicycle is one of the ways to achieve this.

If you managed to pick the right bike type, size and specification, you are already on the right path to success. We have a different article about choosing the correct bike, but this one is more about what else is essential to maintain your great experience. We will explain why bike service is important and what difference it makes. 

A timely bike service cannot be underestimated when thinking about smooth and joyful rides. It is so satisfying to push on the pedals and only hear tyres gently rolling over a tarmac. It feels like pedals only ever need gentle pressure to create traction. 

Sometimes a minor issue can have a significant effect on performance. The most common issues can be fixed in minutes: tyres pressure, dry chain, too low saddle, loose handlebars, loose pedals, gears adjustment, and brakes adjustment.

You can hear your bike crying (making squeaking, clicking noises), and it always feels like pushing uphill. Sometimes it could be you, but more likely, your bike needs maintenance. Pay attention to these signals - listen to your bike! Surprisingly, most cyclists ride their bikes with underinflated tyres or under-lubricated chains. It makes pushing the pedals and wears down the chain and cogs much harder. You can resolve these issues at home or at your local bike shop before setting off for a ride.

After buying a new bike, returning for at least one service after about 200 km commuting in a city or 500 km countryside touring is vital. Gears are expected to lose index, brakes to lose performance, and spokes and bearing compression to lose tension. The after-purchase service is for addressing these usual issues. If you don't return it for service, it may affect the bike's warranty, as some manufacturers have this included in their terms and conditions.

Most of the bike shops provide after-purchase service. They sell bikes with a free service included for a certain period: 3 months, 12 months, 24 months or a lifetime. But the scope of the service is less important than the length of the period. Some shops may consider a service pumping up tyres and lubricating chains while others would do a complete bike clean, thorough inspection, all adjustments, and even test ride your bike to ensure it performs well on the road for you. You would want to make the right choice at this point. While free service for a lifetime may sound attractive, always check what it includes.

At 360 Cycles, this is how your bike journey looks when you leave it for service:

1. We assess the bike and make a service plan for what is needed.
2. We wash or dry clean the cycle depending on its state.
3. A mechanic thoroughly checks all nuts and bolts, bearings compression, and spokes tension, adjusts gears and brakes, pumps up tyres and lubricates the chain.
4. We take the bike on the road and test how it performs on the road.
5. We will contact you when the bike is ready.
6. We will print the report and email it to you.

All new bikes come with a 12-month service package that includes unlimited visits for this kind of service. The bicycle looks and feels new all the time.

TIP: Check the tyre's pressure and chain weekly or before every ride or pop into your local bike store - they most likely will offer this service for free, and it only takes 3 minutes.