Most shops say 'once a year'. That is a reasonable default, but it is not the whole story. A bike ridden 2,000 km on dry pavement needs less attention than one ridden 400 km through salted winter streets.
For a commuter, we recommend a full tune-up every 1,500–2,000 km, or twice a year if you ride in winter. For mountain bikers, every 40–60 hours of trail time, and always after a wet, gritty week.
The cheap early-warning signals: a chain that measures past 0.5% wear, shifting that hesitates under load, and brake levers that feel different than they did in spring.
A worn chain is the most expensive thing to ignore. Left too long it wears the cassette and chainrings, turning a $30 part into a $200 drivetrain.
From the bench
Book a repair
Written quote before we start, 30-day workmanship warranty, and you can track the job from your phone.