Updated in November 2026
A bike's spring service is twelve checks to go through before your first ride: tyres, brakes, chain, gears, bolts, lights and the e-bike battery. When these are in order, the bike is safe and reliable all season.
The short answer
Start by washing the bike, because faults are easy to see on a clean bike. Then check tyre pressure and tyre condition, the brakes, chain and gears, bolts and lights. On an e-bike, also check that the battery is seated properly and that the system works. If anything feels uncertain, or the brakes are faulty, take the bike in for service.
The 12-point checklist
1. Wash the bike
Remove the winter dirt and road salt. Use a cleaner made for bicycles and avoid a pressure washer near the bearings and electrical parts. Dry the bike afterwards.
2. Check tyre pressure
The recommended pressure range is printed on the tyre sidewall. Inflate the tyre within that range according to your riding style and load. Tyres lose pressure over time, so check it in spring.
3. Inspect the tyres
Look for cracks, cuts and worn spots. If the tread is worn or the sidewall is damaged, replace the tyre. If you rode on studded tyres in winter, switch to summer tyres.
4. Test the brakes
Squeeze the brake lever with the bike standing still: the lever should stop clearly before it reaches the handlebar. Check the brake pads for wear and, on disc brakes, the condition of the rotor. A brake fault always means a trip to the workshop.
5. Clean and lube the chain
Wipe off the dirt and add fresh lubricant. Do not wipe off the excess lube, so that dirt does not stick to the chain. Read more about chain life and maintenance.
6. Check how the gears work
Go through the gears while riding. If shifting skips or feels heavy, the cables or adjustments need attention.
7. Tighten the bolts
Check the handlebar, headset, seatpost, wheel fastenings and pedals. Use a torque wrench if the bike has carbon parts.
8. Check that the wheels run true
Spin the wheels and make sure the rim does not wobble sideways and that the hub turns smoothly. Wheel truing and bearing service belong to the workshop.
9. Test the lights and reflectors
Check that the front and rear lights work and that the batteries are in good shape. The reflectors must be in place.
10. Check the bell and accessories
The bell, mudguards, rack and lock must work. Also carry repair gear: an inner tube, tyre levers and a pump.
11. E-bike: battery and system
Fit the battery, charge it and make sure the system starts and the assistance levels work. Software updates and error codes are best checked at the workshop. Also read our winter storage guide.
12. Take a test ride
Ride a short loop at an easy pace. Listen for noises and feel how the brakes and gears work before heading out on a longer trip.
What can you do yourself, and what should you leave to the workshop?
| Yourself | Workshop |
|---|---|
| Washing, chain lubrication, tyre pressure | Brake service and bleeding |
| Checking lights and accessories | Gear and cable adjustment |
| Checking bolts | Wheel truing and bearing service |
| Changing an inner tube | E-bike system check |
See service prices in our service price list.
When should you book the spring service?
Spring service queues grow across the whole industry as the weather warms up. Book in good time during the winter so your bike is ready when the season starts. Our workshop is in Tampere at Hyllilänkuja 7.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do to my bike in spring?
Wash the bike, check tyre pressure and tyre condition, test the brakes, lube the chain, and check the gears, bolts and lights. On an e-bike, also check the battery and the system.
How often does a bike need servicing?
At least once a year, and more often with heavy use. You can find more detailed service intervals in our service price list.
Can I wash my bike with a pressure washer?
It is not recommended. A pressure washer can force water into the bearings and electrical parts. Use a soft brush and low water pressure.
How do I know the brakes are in good condition?
The brake lever stops clearly before the handlebar, the pads are not worn out, and the brakes do not squeal or judder. If you are unsure, have the brakes checked at the workshop.
Summary
A spring service takes about an hour and is best done before your first long ride. If anything needs a professional, book a service: huolto@emiliasport.fi or 040 048 4311.
Written by the experts at Emilia Sport
Emilia Sport is a bike shop in Tampere. We are happy to advise by phone too: huolto@emiliasport.fi / 040 048 4311.
