Mountain bike suspension needs regular servicing to keep it working properly and prevent unnecessary wear. Over time, the oil and grease inside your fork and rear shock become contaminated with dirt and moisture, while seals and other moving parts gradually wear.

You might not notice the difference straight away, but suspension performance can deteriorate long before something actually fails. Regular servicing helps keep your suspension smooth, responsive and working as it should.

Fork Servicing – What's Involved?

Lower-Leg Service

A lower-leg service is the regular maintenance that keeps your fork running smoothly. It generally involves removing the lowers, cleaning and inspecting the internal components, servicing the foam rings and seals as required and replacing the lubrication oil or grease.

Service intervals vary between manufacturers and models. Many forks require this type of maintenance after approximately 50 hours of riding, although some have different recommendations.

If you're regularly riding dusty trails, muddy conditions or spending weekends at the bike park, your fork may need attention sooner.

Our advice: Don't wait until your fork feels sticky or starts making noises. By then, dirt and moisture may already have caused wear inside the fork.

Full Fork Service

A full fork service goes further than a lower-leg service. Depending on the model, it includes servicing the air spring, damper and internal seals, replacing fluids and checking components for wear or damage.

Manufacturers specify different full-service intervals, often based on riding hours rather than calendar time. The correct schedule depends on your fork and how much riding you're doing.

If your damping adjustments stop working properly, the fork makes unusual noises or its performance has noticeably changed, it's worth having it inspected.

Rear Shock Servicing

Air-Can Service

Just like a fork, your rear shock needs regular lubrication and seal maintenance. An air-can service generally involves removing the air sleeve, cleaning and inspecting the seals and replacing the appropriate lubricants.

This helps maintain smooth movement, reduce friction and prevent premature wear.

The recommended interval depends on the shock model and riding conditions. Regular riders, particularly those spending plenty of time on dusty or muddy trails, may need servicing more frequently.

Full Rear Shock Service

A full shock service involves servicing the damper and other internal components according to the manufacturer's requirements.

Signs that your shock may need attention include unusual squelching noises, inconsistent damping, loss of adjustment or oil leakage.

Some shock servicing requires specialist tools and equipment, so it's best handled by an appropriately equipped suspension technician.

How Often Should You Service Your Suspension?

There's no single service interval that suits every fork or shock. Manufacturers such as FOX and RockShox publish schedules based on the specific product, model year and type of service required.

As a general guide, riders should keep track of their riding hours and check the manufacturer's recommendations rather than relying on a fixed six-month or annual schedule.

If you're regularly riding the Port Hills, Craigieburn, Hanmer Springs or spending long days at the bike park, it's worth being particularly attentive to suspension maintenance.

For the correct service intervals and technical information for your suspension, refer to the manufacturer's resources:

• FOX Bike Suspension Service and Technical Support
• RockShox Service Manuals and Technical Information

Our advice: If you're unsure when your fork or shock was last serviced, bring it in. We can help identify the model, check its condition and work out what servicing is due.

What About Dropper Posts?

Dropper posts also contain seals, bushings and moving parts that need maintenance. Dirt and moisture can build up around the seals, while internal components wear over time.

Keep the post clean and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule. If it's becoming slow to return, developing excessive play or sticking, it's worth having it checked.

More Bike Maintenance Advice

For more information on looking after your bike, have a look at our other maintenance guides:

• Mountain Bike Maintenance Tips – regular checks, drivetrain care and servicing.
• Bike Maintenance Basics Guide – suspension, chain care, tyres, tubeless sealant and brakes.
• How to Wash and Maintain Your E-Bike – cleaning around motors, batteries and electrical components.

Need Your Suspension Serviced?

At Chain Reaction, our Christchurch workshop can help with suspension maintenance, servicing and identifying wear before it becomes a more expensive problem.

Not sure what your fork or shock needs? Bring your bike in and have a chat with our workshop team. We'll help you work out the right service for your suspension and how you ride.

View Our Workshop Services and Book a Service

Find us at 4/218 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch, with over 200 free car parks.