Do it yourself: Three simple tricks to make your bike last longer

To find out the most effective and practical tips, we spoke with several professional bike mechanics who shared their insights and advice on how to take better care of your MTB. Their suggestions are easy to follow and don’t require advanced mechanical skills or expensive tools just a bit of time and consistency.

In this article, we’ll explore three simple do-it-yourself tricks that will help you increase the longevity of your bicycle, maintain its performance, and enjoy a better riding experience every time you hit the trail.

Have You Checked Your Tire Pressure?

One of the simplest yet most important maintenance habits for any mountain biker is regularly checking your tire pressure. Proper tire inflation not only improves performance and comfort but also protects your wheels and tires from premature wear or damage.

Finding the right pressure balance can be tricky. If your tires are overinflated, they will feel hard and may not grip the trail effectively. This can reduce traction, especially on loose or uneven terrain, making your bike feel unstable in corners or over roots and rocks. On the other hand, underinflated tires can cause “pinch flats” when the inner tube gets squeezed between the rim and an obstacle, leading to a puncture. Riding with too little air pressure can also risk damaging or deforming your rims if you hit rough terrain.

Tire pressure is typically measured in bar (or sometimes in PSI). The ideal pressure for your mountain bike tires depends on three main factors:

• Your weight – Heavier riders usually need slightly higher pressures to prevent tire squish and rim strikes.
• Tire volume – Wider tires hold more air and can therefore be run at lower pressures without losing stability.
• Terrain type – Different surfaces require different pressures for optimal traction and comfort.

As a general guideline, front tires are often kept slightly softer (around 1.6–1.8 bar) for better grip and control, while rear tires may be inflated a bit higher (around 1.8–2.0 bar) to handle more weight and provide stability. However, these numbers are just starting points lighter riders may prefer slightly less pressure, while heavier riders might need a bit more.

The type of tire system also matters. Tubeless tires can usually be run at lower pressures because they’re less prone to pinch flats and provide better traction. In contrast, tires with inner tubes often require higher pressure to avoid damage.

Finally, always consider the terrain you’ll be riding on.

• For smoother, flowing trails, slightly lower pressure can increase traction and comfort.
• For rocky, rugged terrain, higher pressure will help protect your rims and prevent punctures.

Whenever you’re unsure, consult your bike manufacturer’s manual or the pressure range printed on the tire sidewall. Riding with the correct pressure helps you maintain better control, extend the life of your tires and rims, and enjoy a smoother, safer ride every time you hit the trail.

Always Check the Condition of Your Chain

Your bicycle’s chain is one of its most vital components it transfers power from your pedals to the wheels, directly influencing how smoothly and efficiently your bike rides. However, it’s also one of the parts most exposed to wear and environmental stress. Mud, water, dust, and even leaves or small branches can easily build up on the chain, leading to corrosion, stiffness, and premature wear if not properly maintained.

Regularly inspecting, cleaning, and lubricating your chain is one of the easiest ways to maintain your mountain bike’s performance and extend the lifespan of other drivetrain components, such as the cassette, chainrings, and derailleur. A clean, well-oiled chain runs quietly and shifts smoothly, while a dry or dirty one can cause skipping gears, grinding noises, and even chain breakage.

How to Clean and Lubricate Your Chain

Start by applying an oil-based lubricant specifically designed for bicycles. Avoid household oils, as they attract too much dirt and don’t protect the metal properly. Use a soft, clean cloth or a dedicated chain-cleaning tool to gently wipe the chain while slowly turning the pedals backward. This removes grime and old lubricant buildup.

Continue wiping until the rag becomes completely dirty, then replace it with a clean one and repeat the process. When the cloth starts coming away clean, it’s time to reapply a small amount of fresh lubricant along the entire length of the chain. Let the oil penetrate for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess too much lubricant can attract more dust and dirt.

How often you need to clean your chain depends largely on where and how you ride. If you often ride on muddy or wet trails, it’s best to clean and lube your chain after every ride to prevent rust and buildup. For dry, dusty conditions, cleaning every few rides may be enough. A quick inspection before and after riding can help you decide when maintenance is needed.

Protecting Your Frame from Chain Damage

In addition to keeping your chain clean, consider adding a chainstay protector a simple but effective piece of gear that wraps around the rear part of your bike frame. When you shift gears or ride over rough terrain, the chain can slap against the frame, leaving scratches or chipped paint. A protector prevents this damage, helping to preserve your bike’s appearance and reduce the risk of rust on exposed metal areas.

By taking a few minutes to care for your chain regularly, you’ll not only improve your bike’s efficiency and lifespan but also ensure a quieter, smoother, and more enjoyable ride every time you hit the trails.

Check Your Brake Fluid Periodically

Brakes are one of the most critical components of any mountain bike. Ensuring they are working perfectly isn’t just about performance it’s about safety. Reliable braking gives you the control and confidence you need to tackle steep descents, technical sections, and unpredictable terrain. Neglecting your brakes, on the other hand, can quickly turn a fun ride into a dangerous situation.

It might sound like a paradox, but good braking is key to having fun safely. Properly maintained brakes let you push your limits while staying in full control of your bike. That’s why regularly checking the condition of your brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid should be a priority for every rider.

Inspecting the Brake Pads and Rotors

Dirt, mud, and water are common on mountain trails and all of them accelerate the wear of brake components. Over time, these elements can grind down your brake pads, reducing their effectiveness and increasing the stopping distance.

To inspect them, remove the wheels and take a close look at each pad. There should still be a noticeable amount of braking material left (usually at least 1–2 mm). If one pad is more worn than the other, this may indicate misalignment in your brake caliper, meaning the pads are not pressing evenly against the rotor.

If your brake pads are completely worn out, you should also check the brake rotors (discs) for damage. Excessive wear or scoring on the disc surface means it might be time for a replacement. Continuing to ride with worn components can damage the caliper and compromise your braking power.

Testing Brake Feel and Fluid Condition

Hydraulic disc brakes rely on brake fluid to transmit force from the lever to the caliper. Over time, this fluid can absorb moisture or become contaminated, leading to a spongy or weak feeling when you squeeze the lever.

To test your brakes, gently pull each brake lever. You should feel firm, consistent resistance not a soft or “mushy” sensation. If the lever pulls too close to the handlebar or feels inconsistent, your brakes may need to be bled.

Bleeding the brakes involves replacing the old hydraulic fluid and removing any air bubbles trapped in the system. This process restores the correct pressure and responsiveness. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, take your bike to a professional mechanic. It’s a quick and inexpensive service that can dramatically improve braking performance.

Pro Tip:

After washing your bike, always wipe the rotors with a clean cloth to remove any water, oil, or residue. Avoid touching the braking surface with your fingers the natural oils from your skin can contaminate the pads and reduce braking power.

Regular brake maintenance ensures your mountain bike stays safe, responsive, and ready for any challenge. By checking your pads, rotors, and hydraulic fluid periodically, you’ll not only improve performance but also extend the lifespan of your entire braking system giving you peace of mind every time you hit the trail.

The Importance of Regular Mountain Bike Maintenance

Regular maintenance is one of the most important aspects of mountain biking and plays a key role in ensuring your bike’s longevity, safety, and performance. Whether you’re climbing a grassy hill, commuting to work, or exploring your favorite dirt trails, taking good care of your bike should always be a top priority.

Your mountain bike faces constant exposure to dust, mud, water, and mechanical stress. Without regular care, these factors can lead to faster wear, rust, and damage to crucial components such as the drivetrain, brakes, and suspension. Fortunately, preventing these issues doesn’t require a lot of time or expertise just a few minutes of attention after each ride can make a big difference.

After every outing, take a moment to inspect your bike: check the tire pressure, clean the chain, make sure the brakes feel firm, and wipe off any mud or debris. These small actions will help you identify potential problems early, before they turn into expensive repairs.

Consistent maintenance not only improves your riding experience but also enhances your safety on the trail. A well-maintained bike handles better, stops more effectively, and shifts gears smoothly giving you full confidence and control no matter the terrain.

Moreover, taking care of your bike helps you save money in the long term. Preventive maintenance reduces the need for frequent replacements of costly parts and can even extend the overall lifespan of your bike, delaying the need to purchase a new one.