top of page
Search

Do I really need to get a service?

  • Writer: Flow State Suspension
    Flow State Suspension
  • Sep 1, 2025
  • 3 min read

Your mountain bike suspension isn’t just about comfort — it’s about control, speed, and safety. Whether you ride an elite enduro or downhill race bike with Fox, RockShox, Ohlins, DVO, Marzocchi, EXT or any suspension, or simply hit local trails for fun, keeping your suspension properly serviced is one of the smartest investments you can make in your riding.


Why Suspension Servicing Matters

Modern suspension systems like the Fox 38, RockShox Zeb, Fox Float X2, or RockShox Super Deluxe are highly engineered to deliver precise performance. But like any high-performance machine, they need maintenance. Over time, dirt, dust, and water find their way into your fork and shock. Oils break down, seals wear, and friction increases — leaving you with suspension that feels harsh, unpredictable, and inefficient.

Skipping routine mountain bike suspension servicing doesn’t just affect how your bike feels. It can cause internal damage, lead to costly repairs, and even shorten the lifespan of your expensive components.


Benefits for Enduro & Downhill Riders

If you’re racing enduro or downhill, every fraction of a second counts. A well-tuned Fox fork service or RockShox shock service gives you:

  • Maximum grip on technical terrain

  • Consistent damping across long descents

  • Faster response for improved control

  • Confidence at speed when it matters most

Professional racers service their suspension frequently for good reason — performance drops quickly when forks and shocks are neglected.


Why Regular Riders Need Suspension Servicing Too

Even if you’re not chasing podiums, regular mountain bike suspension maintenance makes a big difference. Trail riders and weekend warriors benefit from:

  • Smoother, more comfortable rides

  • Reduced rider fatigue on long climbs and descents

  • Better safety and control on sketchy terrain

  • Longer lifespan for your Fox or RockShox components

Think of suspension servicing like a car service. You wouldn’t drive thousands of miles without changing the oil — your suspension deserves the same care.


How Often Should You Service Your MTB Suspension?

Both Fox and RockShox recommend regular servicing:

  • Lower leg service (forks): every 50 hours of riding

  • Air can service (shocks): every 50 hours of riding

  • Full service: every 100–200 hours of riding or annually, whichever comes first

If you ride often in wet, muddy, or dusty conditions (hello UK trails 🌧️), you may need to service your suspension even more frequently.


Signs Your Suspension Needs Servicing

Not sure if it’s time? Look out for these warning signs:

  • Your fork or shock feels harsh or sticky

  • You hear squelching or knocking noises

  • Oil or grease is leaking around the seals

  • Your suspension “packs down” and doesn’t return smoothly

  • Small bumps feel harsh instead of smooth

If you spot any of these, book a Fox suspension service or RockShox service as soon as possible.


Protect Your Investment

High-end forks and shocks are not cheap. A Fox 38 fork or RockShox Zeb fork can cost over £1,000. Regular servicing is a fraction of that cost and ensures your components last for years, rather than failing early due to neglect.



UK weather and your suspension working in harmony together
UK weather and your suspension working in harmony together

Whether you’re a downhill racer, enduro competitor, or weekend rider, keeping your suspension in top condition is essential. Regular mountain bike suspension servicing will transform your ride, protect your investment, and keep you safer on the trails.

👉 Don’t wait until your fork feels rough or your shock starts leaking — book your Fox or RockShox suspension service today and keep your bike performing like new.

 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page