1. Introduction: Your MTB is a High-Performance Machine
Your mountain bike isn’t just a frame with two wheels—it’s a system of high-tolerance components working in unison.
Exposure to dirt, grit, water, and impact on every ride means wear and tear happens fast if ignored.
2. The Mechanical Wear Cycle: Why Components Deteriorate
Friction & Load Stress: Drivetrains undergo high torque loads—without clean lubrication, you accelerate chain and cassette wear.
Contamination: Dust + trail debris + water = abrasive paste that destroys moving parts (especially suspension seals and bushings).
Thermal Expansion: Brake systems heat up under load, stressing hydraulic seals and fluid; regular bleeding maintains pressure integrity.
Metal Fatigue: Bolts, cranks, and bars subtly deform under stress cycles—torque checks prevent sudden failure.
3. Component-Specific Maintenance Needs
Drivetrain (Chain, Cassette, Chainring, Derailleur): Needs cleaning and lubrication every few rides; chain wear checker use every ~200km.
Hydraulic Brakes: Fluid absorbs moisture over time; annual bleeds restore modulation and prevent fade.
Suspension (Fork & Shock): Air pressure check before every ride; lower leg and air can service every 50 hours; full overhaul at 100-200 hours.
Bearings (Headset, Bottom Bracket, Hubs, Linkages): Grease dries out or is displaced; needs periodic regreasing or replacement based on play or roughness.
Wheels & Tires: Truing ensures structural integrity; tire casing wear affects grip and rolling resistance.
4. Diagnostic Tools & Techniques
Chain wear gauge (0.5%/0.75% marks)
Torque wrench to manufacturer spec (e.g., 5Nm for cockpit components)
Shock pump + sag measurements (typically 20–30% for rear shocks)
Rotor thickness gauge (minimum thickness marked on rotor—usually 1.5mm)
Runout check for rims & rotors (dial indicator or visual truing)
5. Professional vs DIY: Knowing When to Book a Service
