The Ultimate MTB Service Interval Guide (2026)

Mountain bikes are more capable than ever, but they are also more complex. With the rise of electronic shifting, high-performance suspension, and integrated cable routing, keeping a maintenance log isn't just for pros anymore—it's for anyone who wants to avoid a $500 repair bill.

In this guide, we break down exactly when you should service your components to keep your ride smooth and your resale value high.

Why Time-Based Intervals Matter

Most riders wait for something to creak, squeak, or leak before fixing it. By then, the damage is often done. For example, once your fork feels "stiff," the grit inside has likely already begun scratching the expensive stanchions.

By tracking your riding hours (the industry standard) or mileage, you can perform preventative maintenance that costs a fraction of a full component replacement.

2026 Maintenance Interval Cheat Sheet

Use this table as your baseline. Note that if you ride in bike parks, heavy mud, or coastal salt air, you should reduce these intervals by 25%.

Critical Milestones to Watch

The 50-Hour "Health Check"

This is the most critical interval for mountain bikers. A "Lower Leg Service" for your fork doesn't require a professional mechanic; it’s a simple process of swapping the oil and cleaning the dust wipers. Doing this at 50 hours keeps your suspension feeling "supple" and prevents internal wear.

The Yearly Overhaul

Once a year, your bike deserves a "deep dive." This includes:

• Bearing Inspection: Check your headset, bottom bracket, and frame pivots for "notchy" movement.
• Drivetrain Wear: Use a chain checker tool. Replacing a $40 chain early saves you from replacing a $300 cassette later.
• Brake Pads: If the pad material is thinner than a dime (1mm), swap them out immediately.

Stop Guessing, Start Tracking

Trying to remember exactly how many hours you’ve put on your bike since January is impossible. This is why we built MTB-Tracker.

By syncing with your Strava data, MTB-Tracker automatically calculates the wear on every individual component. You get a "Live Dashboard" with red, yellow, and green indicators so you know exactly when your fork is due for a refresh—before the performance drops.