Bike Tune-Up Events
Need basic tune-ups on your bicycle?
North York Cycles hosts or partners with other groups to host free bike tune-up events across North York so that you can access the service and start riding with confidence.
Ask us anything cycling-related, learn about cycling safety, and get free bike lights and bells from us, too!
Scroll below to learn what goes into our free basic tune-ups. Also, learn when and where we will be offering these services in North York.
North York Cycles provides free basic bike tune-ups, which include several of the following inspection points. Anything that requires complex labour and parts will be referred to a bike mechanic shop for professional support.
North York Cycles is not liable for any damages that may result from a basic bike tune-up.
Basic Bike Tune-Up Expectations
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Ensuring that there is adequate air in the tires.
Ensuring there are no punctures, wear, or other visible damage to the wheel that causes air loss in tires or presents danger to the rider.
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Checking for squeaks or grinding noises when braking.
Ensure brake pads aren’t worn thin (replace if less than ¼ inch thick).
Test brake levers for responsiveness and stopping power.
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Shift through all gears to ensure smooth transitions.
Look for skipping gears or resistance when shifting.
Check the chain for rust, dirt buildup, or stiffness.
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Inspect the frame for any visible cracks, especially around welds.
Check the fork alignment by viewing the bike from the front.
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Ensure handlebars are tightly secured and aligned.
Check that steering is smooth, neither overly tight nor loose.
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Spin the pedals and crank arms to detect any looseness or grinding.
Confirm that pedals are securely fastened and crank arms are tight.
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Test any bells or horns to ensure they’re working properly.
Ensure reflective tape or reflectors are visible and securely attached.
UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
📆 Sunday, April 12, 2026
⏰ 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
📍 York Mills Collegiate Institute (490 York Mills Rd)
Come visit us at Councillor Rachel Chernos Lin’s first Community Environment Days event! No registration required.
Community Environment Days - Councillor Rachel Chernos Lin
📆 Saturday, April 25, 2026
⏰ 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
📍 Earl Haig Secondary School - Parking Lot (100 Princess Ave, North York)
Come visit us at Councillor Lily Cheng’s first Community Environment Days event! Drop off items for reuse, recycling, and safe disposal, and visit the eco fair featuring a variety of environmental groups. Also, get free compost and participate in the book and seed exchange!
Community Environment Days - Councillor Lily Cheng
Financial Accessibility Getting To Our Bike Tune-Ups
Thanks to the City of Toronto, we can provide a limited number of physical $10 PRESTO cards to anyone who is experiencing financial difficulty getting to our bike tune-up events by transit only.
No need for proof or questions asked - we just trust and hope you are honest and genuinely need the support.
Send us an email at northyork.cyclingadvocacy@gmail.com to request a physical $10 PRESTO card at least 24 hours in advance. We will prepare only a limited number of cards based on the emails sent.
No drop-in requests. Show up to our bike tune-up event, and you get the $10 PRESTO card! If you have any questions, please email us.
This project is supported by the City of Toronto through Live Green Toronto and the Neighbourhood Climate Action Grants program.
