Let’s face it, most of us like to think our bikes are in “great shape.” We ignore the creaking bottom bracket, pretend the brakes are meant to squeal like a kettle on full boil, and genuinely believe that mystery crunch in the drivetrain is just our bike’s way of saying hello. Charming. Until you’re halfway up a climb and your gear decides it’s had enough of this relationship.
Here’s the truth: if your bike’s been feeling like it’s running on a diet of broken promises and dry bearings, it’s probably time to upgrade a few things and get serious about regular servicing.
Mountain Bikers: You’re Not on a Tractor. Stop Riding Like It.
You know that feeling when you hit a technical descent and your brakes decide to take a long lunch break? If you’re still running tired two-piston brakes or a worn-out lever that feels like pulling a spoon through cold porridge, it’s time to level up…literally. The SRAM Level Bronze Stealth 4-Piston brakes were built for trail-ready stopping power without weighing you down. Tool-free reach adjust? Yes. Clean, modern cockpit? Double yes. Stopping power that doesn’t make your forearms scream? That’s the dream.
Looking to buy? Links below…
SRAM Level Bronze Stealth Front Brake
SRAM Level Bronze Stealth Rear Brake
And what about that drivetrain? If you’re still clunking gears under load and praying your derailleur doesn’t explode into your spokes, you’re overdue for a reality check. The GX AXS T-Type Transmission for Bosch e-MTBs brings crisp, under-load shifting that just works. No more ghost gears or crunchy power transfers when you’re trying to climb something spicy. Your legs deserve better.
Road Riders: You’re Not “Saving Watts” by Ignoring That 9-Speed Tiagra
We get it. Your bike “was top-end in 2012.” But if your front derailleur shifts like it’s negotiating peace between nations and your cassette looks like a saw blade from a horror film, it’s time to embrace the 21st century.
Modern road groupsets like the new SRAM Force Groupset are lighter, faster, and make every pedal stroke count. Imagine the bliss of silky-smooth gear changes and brake modulation that doesn’t feel like you’re tugging on piano wire. It’s not just about speed—it’s about riding without drama.
Also, let’s not forget saddles. That “race saddle” you picked up on sale might look the part, but if it feels like sitting on an upturned brick, swap it for something that treats you right—like the Fizik Argo Adaptive. 3D-printed padding, zonal support, and carbon rails? Your sit bones will thank you.
But Let’s Be Honest… New Parts Are Only Half the Battle
Sure, upgrading is great—but it’s worthless if your bottom bracket is packed with last winter’s mud or your headset turns like it’s full of gravel. The unsung villains of poor bike performance are often hidden where you least expect them: bearings, pivots, internals, and suspension parts that quietly degrade until they’re begging for mercy.
That’s why regular servicing isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. At Team Cycles, we recommend:
- A basic service every 6–10 months for regular riders. Think gear tuning, brake adjustments, bearing checks, and the occasional telling-off of your neglected drivetrain.
- A Super Deluxe Service once a year for riders who want to keep their bike running like a dream. It includes a full strip-down, regrease, suspension setup, and a refresh for parts that need a little TLC.
- Suspension servicing available by post—no matter where you live, send us your shocks and we’ll return them freshly serviced and ready to shred.
- Oh, and did we mention we offer ceramic coating? Your bike stays cleaner, shinier, and 100% smug-proof.
Book Your Service Online—It’s Simpler Than Guessing When Your Last Service Was
Whether you’re based near our Gateshead HQ or up for an adventure near our Kielder Forest shop, booking a service is as easy as clicking a button. No awkward phone calls, no waiting in line—just fast, professional bike TLC from people who actually know what they’re doing.
Book you service online – Click Here
