How Much Does a Mountain Bike Tune Up Cost

Last Updated on November 21, 2022

Mountain bikes need to be maintained in the best way possible. This lengthens their lifespan and improves their performance. It can also make your ride safer.

One good way to do that is by tuning up your mountain bike. But how much does a mountain bike tune up cost? And will it break your bank? What are the services included in a package tune-up?

All the answers to these questions are answered and discussed in this article. We’ll also give you an in-depth description of what happens on a bike tune up and the tools included.

How Much Does a Mountain Bike Tune Up Cost

The cost of a mountain bike tune-up depends on the tune-up you want. The parts included and the level of service you prefer also plays a big factor. But the average cost is around $60 to $100.

There are also cases where it can reach $200 to $300 if it’s a premium bike. Some bike shops also charge $50 to 90 for a minor and basic tune-up. While other shops charge around $120 to $150 for major tune-up services.

Services Included in a Mountain Bike Tune Up

Bike wash

Bike wash is the most basic step to tuning up your bike. It’s not really a part of the tuning up process. But it’s important so the parts that will be services are clean and free of dirt from your rides.

The bike wash process is done by cleaning it with soap and water from a hose. The frame, fork, shock, wheels, and drivetrain are cleaned thoroughly using a brush and sponge. They then dry this and regrease.

Wheel check

A wheel check includes the inspection of your rims and spokes. Your rims shouldn’t have any dents, cracks, and scratches. But scratches are normal and tolerable. Dented rims can sometimes be fixed by gently tapping it with a hammer.

But this isn’t recommended, especially if you race. Cracked rims should be replaced as soon as possible. The mechanic will then true the wheels and give it the right tension. This balances the bike and lets it ride in a straight position without wobbling.

Cable check

They also check the cables. This process includes the inspection of the cable’s rubber housing. It shouldn’t have any cracks. The housing should be replaced if it has any. The cables included in this check are for the brake and shifting.

Shifter cables usually wear out first because of the tension they receive every time you shift gears.

The shifter and brake cables should also be correctly tightened, so they won’t rattle and make noises. Brake and shifter cables that intersect each other can also be tied using cable ties.

Drivetrain setting

This is one of the most important parts of the tune-up process. The drivetrain is your bike’s engine which is why it needs to be tuned up properly and regularly. Tuning up your drivetrain means making shifting accurate and smooth.

The gear should shift once you press the shifter levers. There should be no delays because this can affect your momentum and make you slower.

The mechanic adjusts the limit screws and lubricates the chain with a chain lube. The rear derailleur should also be aligned to your chainring and jockey wheels. Most customers just let mechanics tune up the drivetrain because it’s very important for every ride.

Brake troubleshooting

Cropped shot of male mechanic working in bicycle repair shop, installing brakes using special tool

The brakes are another important bike part to tune-up. It’s where your life depends! Mountain bike hydraulic brakes need to be bled regularly. This bleeding process is done by changing the brake fluid inside the brake hose.

This fluid slows down your bike and makes you stop. Most riders bleed their brakes every 8 to 12 months. But this depends on your usage and type of mountain bike discipline.

Heavy breakers or those who always use their brakes should bleed every 6 to 8 months. Meanwhile, those who don’t use their brakes much can wait until a year or even more.

SRAM brakes are known for being low maintenance brake sets. While Hope brakes need to be bled regularly.

Here are the other top brands that produce brake sets:

  • Shimano
  • Magura
  • TRP

Adjust tire pressure

Tire pressure adjustment is included in full mountain bike tune-ups. It might be basic, but it’s an important factor that needs to be considered. The ideal tire pressure for enduro and downhill riders is 20 to 30 PSI.

We recommend 20 PSI upfront and 25 PSI at the rear if you ride on muddy trails. You can then go for 25 PSI upfront and 30 PSI at the rear if the trails are dry and compact. Cross-country bikes like those from Scott can go for 40 to 50 PSI. This gives them the needed improved traction on climbs.

Related: What PSI for Mountain Bike Tires?

Suspension service

Suspension service is the most expensive part of mountain bicycle tune-up. This costs $100 to $200 or depending on your fork and shock.

This is done by removing the lowers and greasing the internals. They also service the other component inside the fork including the stanchions. This gives the bike better suspension and comfort.

Conclusion

Mountain bike tune-up is important to maximize your ride. Not only does this lengthen its lifespan, but this also lets you enjoy your bike more. It also keeps you safe and more confident on the trails.

Knowing how much does a mountain bike tune up cost helps you prepare your budget. It’s not really that expensive knowing that it does a lot of good for your bike. Just clean it regularly and maintain your bike in the best way possible. Your bike will thank you later.