Like any mechanism consisting of moving parts, bikes need regular check-ups to stay on track.
After a while of riding a bike, the wheels may come untrue, and the chain may need lubrication. Doing regular tune-ups will keep all parts in check and prevent potential safety issues.
Your bike tune-up costs will vary according to its model and condition. You may have to pay from 60$ all the way to 300$. Let’s see the different tune-ups and which one you should get.
How Much Different Bike Tune-Ups Cost
Your bike tune-up cost differs according to your bike’s condition and model. For example, a regular road bike will have different requirements from a mountain bike costing twice as much. Besides, a bike that’s been stored for long will typically need more adjustments than a bike ridden frequently.
There are three main types of tune-ups. Of course, the prices will vary according to your shop of choice, but there’s an average for everything. Here’s a roundup of the three types and how much they cost.
Basic Tune-Up
A basic bike tune-up costs from 60$ to 80$, according to what’s included. You may find some tune-ups that cost lower than that, but they’ll likely be mere check-ups without the essentials done. You’ll get the chain lubricated and the bike cleaned, but the shop will do nothing technical.
A basic tune-up will include adjusting the bike’s drivetrain and brakes. Additionally, the technician will torque the fasteners, true the wheels, and tighten the spokes if needed.
If your gears and bearings need adjustments, they’ll be done, and the technician will carry out a safety check to ensure everything is alright.
Regular Tune-Up
A regular tune-up is more in-depth than a basic one, so the cost will upgrade to around 100$–150$. The technician will take your bike apart and work on each part individually.
For instance, you’ll get a deep, thorough cleaning for all the parts, and the drivetrain will be removed and degreased. That’s aside from all the basic services the technician will do, such as adjusting the drivetrain.
Lastly, the technician will perform a professional riding test to make sure everything is in place.
Overhaul Tune-Up
An overhaul tune-up is the highest level you can get; it’ll cost you from 150$ to 300$. The shop will have your bike completely taken apart, lubricated, deep cleaned, and put back together. You’ll feel as if you’re riding a brand new bike after you’re done.
The tune-up will include all the basic services along with new cables and bearings. An overhaul tune-up doesn’t include replacing broken parts if they’re expensive, though. You’ll have to buy those separately. Still, you’ll receive your bike in the best condition possible.
You’ll only need an overhaul tune-up once a year if your bike is in bad condition. Other than that, a basic or a regular tune-up will suffice.
Which Tune-Up Should You Choose?
If your bike is still new, a basic tune-up will be enough. The bike’s parts probably won’t be worn out, so they won’t need replacing or lubricating. A basic tune-up will do the necessary and make sure everything is aligned properly, and the shop will inform you of any potential safety issues.
If you have experience in bike maintenance, you may be able to do basic tune-ups by yourself to save costs. You can at least do the easy parts, such as checking the breaks and adjusting the tire pressure.
If your bike has been around for a while, and you ride it regularly, a regular tune-up will be ideal annually or twice a year. That way, you ensure your bike is in the best shape, and its parts are well-lubricated for riding.
We recommend having the regular tune-up before the winter. The season typically has extra demands, especially if you live somewhere with frequent heavy rain. The tune-up will make sure your bike is ready for the cold months.
Lastly, if you’ve been neglecting your bike for some time now, an overhaul is your best bet. Your bike will look new, and any rusty parts will be degreased and cleaned.
Bear in mind that each shop has a different program, though. Some shops only offer cleaning and truing the wheels for basic tune-ups, and some shops don’t offer new cables if you request an overhaul. It’s best if you speak to your shop first and find out about its services for the cost you’re paying.
How Often Should You Get a Tune-Up?
If you maintain your bike well, you probably won’t need a lot of bike tune-ups. Once a year will be fine, except if you’re an avid rider. If you cut hundreds of miles weekly, you’ll want to pay for a tune-up at least twice a year to keep everything in check.
You can choose how often you get a tune-up according to several factors. How often you ride, your bike’s condition, and how long you store the bike are all contributors.
It’s essential not to neglect tune-ups for the bike’s sake. Any mechanism with moving parts eventually needs lubrication and degreasing. On top of that, a tune-up will help you catch potential safety issues, so your mind is at peace while riding.
Bikes are expensive; you don’t want to lose a worthwhile investment because a tune-up will cost you a lot. You’ll only have to do it once or twice a year, and you can learn to do the basic tuning by yourself if you want to save costs.
Conclusion
Whether your bike has been cruising a sidewalk or trekking through mud, it’ll need some maintenance to keep working in the best condition. When you think about it, paying for a regular tune-up costs a lot less than repairing broken parts because of a lack of maintenance.
If you want your bike to live for long, you’ll have to make some effort on your part. Now that you’re aware of the different tune-up types and their costs, the choice should be easy!