Motorcycle Suspension Service: How Often Should You Schedule a Rebuild?

28-Jul-2025

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Your motorcycle’s suspension is more than just a comfort feature, it plays a vital role in handling, safety, and ride quality. Whether you’re carving country roads, tackling off-road trails, or competing in motocross events, maintaining your suspension system is key to keeping your bike performing at its best.

Despite its importance, suspension maintenance is often overlooked by riders. Many wait until performance declines before seeking a motorcycle suspension service or motorcycle shock rebuild. At MH Suspension, we want to change that. This guide explains how often you should schedule servicing based on your riding style, and why timely maintenance is essential for both performance and safety.

Why Motorcycle Suspension Service Matters

Over time, suspension components wear out, fork oil degrades, seals dry and crack, and internal parts can begin to fail. When this happens, your bike may start to feel unstable, harsh, or unpredictable, especially under braking or cornering. In the worst cases, it can compromise your safety.

Regular motorcycle suspension servicing ensures your forks and shock absorbers are in optimal condition. Not only does this restore comfort and control, but it also extends the lifespan of your suspension and prevents more expensive repairs down the line.

How Often Should You Service or Rebuild Your Suspension?

Service intervals can vary depending on the type of riding you do, the terrain, and how aggressively you ride. Below are general guidelines based on rider types commonly seen:

Road Riders (Commuters / Weekend Cruisers)

• Recommended Service: Every 12,000–20,000 miles or every 12–18 months.
• Why: Potholes, uneven tarmac, and wet weather can slowly wear down components, even if you’re not pushing the bike hard.
• Watch for: A vague or wallowy feel in corners, uneven tyre wear, or a harsher ride over bumps.

Off-Road Riders

• Recommended Service: Every 20–40 hours of riding, or more frequently in muddy or wet conditions.
• Why: Dirt, water, and frequent impacts speed up wear on seals and oil, especially in British weather and terrain.
• Watch for: Oil leaks around fork seals or reduced responsiveness in rough terrain.

Track Riders

• Recommended Service: Every 10–20 hours of riding or after every race weekend.
• Why: Hard landings and aggressive use put immense strain on shocks and forks. Even small changes in damping performance can affect control.
• Watch for: Knocking sounds, loss of rebound control, or inconsistent handling.

Adventure / Touring Riders

• Recommended Service: Every 10,000–15,000 miles or annually.
• Why: Extra load from panniers, luggage, and pillions increases wear, especially over long distances or mixed terrain.
• Watch for: Bottoming out over bumps, a spongy feel, or excessive dive under braking.

Signs You May Need a Motorcycle Shock Rebuild

Regardless of mileage or hours ridden, your suspension might give early warning signs that it needs attention:

• Visible oil leaks from forks or rear shock.
• Squeaks or knocking noises during suspension movement.
• Inconsistent damping, the bike feels bouncy or bottoms out easily.
• Poor handling, especially during cornering or braking.
• Tyre cupping or irregular wear patterns.

If you notice any of the above, it’s likely time for a motorcycle shock rebuild or full suspension service.

MH Suspension: The UK’s Suspension Experts

At MH Suspension, we offer tailored solutions for all types of riders, whether you’re riding to work, tearing up the Welsh trails, or competing at your local motocross club. With over 30 years of hands-on experience, we specialise in:

• Full fork and motorcycle shock rebuilds
• Bespoke suspension setups for road, off-road, and race use
• Suspension tuning for rider weight, skill level, and terrain
• Servicing for Öhlins, Showa, WP, KYB, and other major brands

Our workshop is fully equipped and trusted by both hobbyists and championship-winning racers across the UK.

“Honest and engaging, happy to listen and discuss, despite me not knowing what I needed. I would certainly recommend visiting Mark to discuss any suspension issues you may have.” – Cyril

Book Your Suspension Service with Confidence

If you can’t remember the last time your suspension was serviced, or you’re experiencing any performance issues, it’s time to give your bike the care it deserves. A professional motorcycle suspension service from MH Suspension restores performance, comfort, and control, giving you more confidence on every ride.

Ready to book your service or rebuild? Get in touch with us today or call us to speak with a specialist. Your bike will thank you for it.