Gravel Bike Maintenance: Keep Your Ride Adventure-Ready

Gravel biking is all about versatility. Whether you’re tackling fire roads, gravel trails, or rough backroads, your gravel bike needs to be able to handle a wide range of conditions. To ensure that your bike is always ready for your next adventure, regular servicing and targeted upgrades are crucial. At Crossroads Bicycle Co. in Carine, Western Australia, we specialise in gravel bike repairs, servicing, and performance-enhancing upgrades to keep your ride in peak condition.

How Often Should You Service Your Gravel Bike?

Gravel bikes endure a lot of abuse, from rough terrain to unpredictable weather. This can cause more wear and tear than on road bikes. We recommend servicing your gravel bike every 800-1,000 kilometers or after particularly harsh rides, such as those in wet or muddy conditions.

At Crossroads Bicycle Co., our expert mechanics will check the critical components of your gravel bike, ensuring everything is properly tuned for your next adventure. You can book your service easily via our workshop services page.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes have unique demands compared to other types of bicycles. Here are the key components to focus on during your regular maintenance:

• Drivetrain Cleaning: Gravel bikes, particularly those from brands like Cannondale and Giant, feature highly durable drivetrains. However, grit and mud can quickly wear them down. Clean and lubricate the chain and cassette regularly to prevent damage.
• Tire Checks: Gravel tires see a lot of wear due to the varied terrain. Keep an eye on the tread and consider switching to tubeless tires for improved puncture resistance and lower rolling resistance.
• Brake Adjustment: Your gravel bike’s brakes will likely take more abuse due to the mixed terrain. Make sure they’re properly adjusted to ensure responsive stopping power on both loose gravel and hard-packed dirt.
• Frame Inspection: Gravel riding often includes bumps and impacts. Regularly check the frame, especially around the joints, for cracks or damage.

Best Upgrades for Gravel Bikes

Upgrading your gravel bike can significantly improve your performance, especially if you’re planning to push your limits on more challenging trails. Here are some top upgrades to consider:

• Tubeless Tires: A must-have for gravel riders, tubeless tires offer increased traction, fewer flats, and the ability to run lower tire pressure for better grip.
• Drivetrain Upgrades: If your current setup is wearing down, consider upgrading to a more durable or wider-range drivetrain like SRAM’s 1x system. This simplifies shifting while providing plenty of gear range for tough climbs.
• Endurance Handlebars: A flared set of endurance handlebars offers more control on rough descents and improves comfort on long rides.

For a closer look at the best upgrades for your bike, check out our latest stock on the sales page or come into the store to speak with one of our experts.

Trust Crossroads Bicycle Co. for Gravel Bike Servicing

At Crossroads Bicycle Co., we understand the unique needs of gravel cyclists. Whether you’re riding a top-tier S-Works gravel bike or a reliable Giant, our team of experienced mechanics is here to ensure your bike performs at its best. We also carry a wide range of gravel bike components, from tubeless tires to endurance handlebars, to help you get the most out of your ride.

Need to schedule a service or ask about upgrades? Reach out via our contact page or stop by our Carine store.