Headset & Bottom Bracket Service

Fix creaks, roughness and play — at your door or collected and returned

Headset bearings close-up during servicing on a Specialized Pitch frame

What we do

The headset (steering bearings) and bottom bracket (pedalling bearings) are two of the most overlooked parts of a bike. When they wear or dry out, you get creaks, roughness, and play that affects how your bike feels and handles.

We strip, clean, re-grease and adjust these bearings — or replace them if they're worn out. We use the correct tools and torque settings to ensure everything is assembled safely.

What's included

  • Headset service: Strip, clean, re-grease and adjust steering bearings
  • Bottom bracket service: Strip, clean, inspect and re-grease or replace
  • Creak investigation: Systematic diagnosis of noises under load
  • Bearing replacement: Fit new bearings if worn (parts extra)
  • Torque check: All bolts tightened to manufacturer specifications

What worn bearings look like

Here's a real example from our workshop — hub bearings, cones and locknuts stripped out during a service. Worn bearings feel rough or gritty when you spin the wheel, and if left too long they can damage the hub itself.

Wheel hub bearings, cones and locknuts in a magnetic tray during servicing

Hub bearings stripped for inspection

Headset bearings close-up on a Specialized Pitch frame

Headset bearings exposed for cleaning and re-greasing

Pricing

Headset Service or Fitting — £25

Strip, clean, re-grease and adjust. Bearing replacement extra if needed.

Lower Leg Fork Service — £20

Fork lower leg service with fresh oil and seals for smooth suspension performance.

Frequently asked questions

My bike creaks when I pedal — is it the bottom bracket?

Possibly, but creaks can come from many places — pedals, seatpost, saddle rails, even the rear axle. We use a systematic approach to isolate the source before replacing anything.

How often should bearings be serviced?

It depends on how much you ride and in what conditions. As a guide, once a year for regular riders, or sooner if you notice roughness, play, or creaking.

What types of bottom bracket do you work on?

All common types — threaded (BSA), press-fit (BB86, BB92, PF30), and external bearing (Hollowtech II, GXP). We carry the correct tools for each.