How often should I service my fork and shock?

By Travis Flateau, TBT Racing · tuning since 1992

Service your fork and shock about every 12 months or 40 hours of riding, whichever comes first. Race bikes and hard desert miles need it sooner.

Why it matters

• Oil breaks down, and the bike gets harsh and fades.
• Seals and bushings wear, which leads to leaks and sticky action.
• A service costs much less than replacing worn parts later.

Signs you're due

• Oil on the fork tubes or shock body.
• The bike feels different than it did when it was fresh.
• Clunks, a dead feel or extra harshness.