The Venerable Karapoti Classic hits 25 this year.If you're riding in it this year, you need to be thinking of making sure that your bike is up to scratch.
And that means servicing. Karapoti is not the place you want to take a unwell bike and nurse it around.
Is your drivetrain worn?
Save, save, save on chainsuck, by fixing and replacing parts as needed.
Brake pads half worn?
If history is any indicator, they will be FULLY worn halfway around leaving the Dopers descent with metal on metal braking. New pads, or near news are definitely recommended for Karapoti. A small spend now, saves a big spend when you wear them out partway and need to replace rotors, pads and in some cases brake pistons.
Your brakes may feel spongier than they once were, and pump up on long downhills. A bleed can help with this. Lest we forget just how long some of the hills are in there. Up AND down.
Shifting a bit lacking?
You might need a simple tune, or perhaps new cables and outers to make your shifting nice, light and smooth again.
Had your nice flash bike for 2 years or more. Ridden it heaps, and NEVER had the forks serviced, or pivots checked (if it's a full susser)?
Hold one hand out palm down, and smack it with your other. Naughty mountainbiker!! Your suspension will work far far far better when it's been serviced. An oil freshen, seals if needed, some Burkes Magic, and ya forks will work like buttah!!
New bearings in your pivots can make your bike feel like new again, and actually work the way it should do.
These parts performance slowly degrades over time, so you might not even realise that they aren't working all that well. You will when you get it back, and as an added bonus (yes, it just keeps coming) if you keep on top of servicing, your stuff lasts longer.
Tires are another thing you might want to look at. Karapoti is full of nasty rocks, and well worn tires are just asking for trouble. There are far to many choices to list, so come on in and ask our helpful staff.
And remember folks, DON'T leave it to the last minute, please book in advance to make sure your ride is ready for the magnificence of the Karapoti Classic.
