Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our bicycle repair services, pricing, and processes

Service duration varies depending on the work required. A basic tune-up typically takes 2-3 hours, while more comprehensive services may need 1-2 days. If we need to order specific parts, this can extend the timeline by 3-5 working days. We always provide an estimated completion time when you drop off your bicycle. For urgent repairs, we offer a same-day service option for an additional fee, subject to workshop availability. Complex rebuilds or custom work may require up to a week.

While we accept walk-ins during business hours, booking an appointment ensures we can dedicate proper time to assess your bicycle thoroughly. Appointments also help us manage workflow efficiently, reducing your waiting time. You can book via phone at +44 20 7358 1927 or email [email protected]. For minor adjustments like brake tweaks or gear indexing, walk-ins are usually fine. However, for comprehensive services or during peak seasons (spring and summer), appointments are strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.

Our mechanics work on all bicycle types including road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, electric bikes, folding bikes, cargo bikes, and children's bicycles. We handle both modern and vintage models, with experience across major brands like Specialized, Trek, Giant, Cannondale, and Brompton. Our workshop is equipped with tools and diagnostic equipment for hydraulic disc brakes, electronic shifting systems, and e-bike motor diagnostics. Whether you ride a £200 commuter or a £5,000 carbon racing machine, we provide the same attention to detail and quality workmanship.

Our basic service starts at £45 and includes brake adjustment, gear tuning, wheel truing, safety check, and lubrication. A comprehensive service costs £85 and adds drivetrain cleaning, cable replacement, bearing inspection, and detailed component check. Premium service at £135 includes everything plus full drivetrain replacement, brake pad renewal, and detailed frame inspection. Prices exclude parts, which are quoted separately based on quality tier you choose. We provide transparent estimates before starting work, so you'll know exact costs upfront. Student and pensioner discounts of 10% are available with valid ID.

All our labour carries a 30-day workmanship guarantee. If an issue arises with work we've performed within this period, we'll rectify it at no charge. Parts warranty depends on the manufacturer - most components come with 6-12 months coverage. We keep detailed service records for warranty claims. This guarantee doesn't cover normal wear, damage from accidents, or issues arising from improper use. For customers on our annual service plan, we extend the labour warranty to 90 days and offer priority booking throughout the year.

We perform component servicing on carbon bicycles but don't undertake carbon frame repairs in-house due to the specialized equipment required. For structural carbon damage, we partner with certified carbon repair specialists who can assess and repair cracks, chips, or impact damage. We can arrange collection and delivery through our network. However, we're fully equipped to service all components on carbon bikes including installing bottom brackets, headsets, and performing torque-sensitive work using calibrated tools to manufacturer specifications, preventing over-tightening that could damage carbon.

Slipping gears usually indicate worn drivetrain components, stretched cables, or misaligned derailleurs. Common causes include worn cassette teeth, stretched chain, bent derailleur hanger, or contaminated cables. Bring your bicycle in for diagnosis - we'll measure chain wear with precision tools, inspect cassette and chainring wear patterns, and check derailleur alignment. Often, a simple cable adjustment or hanger straightening solves the issue. However, if your chain has exceeded 0.75% wear, we'll recommend replacement along with the cassette to prevent further damage and ensure smooth shifting. Ignoring this can lead to more expensive repairs later.

Yes, we stock essential replacement parts including chains, cassettes, brake pads, cables, tyres, tubes, and common wear items. We carry multiple quality tiers from budget-friendly to premium options, allowing you to choose based on your riding style and budget. For specialized components not in stock, we can order from our suppliers with typical delivery in 2-3 working days. We also sell accessories like lights, locks, pumps, and maintenance products. All parts purchased through us come with fitting advice, and we offer discounted installation if you buy components from our shop.

Service frequency depends on usage. Commuters riding daily should have a comprehensive service every 6 months or 2,000 miles. Recreational riders using their bicycle weekly can extend this to annually. Mountain bikers in muddy conditions may need quarterly attention due to harsher wear. Between services, perform basic checks: tyre pressure weekly, chain lubrication every 100 miles, and brake function before each ride. Listen for unusual noises, feel for grinding or resistance, and watch for handling changes. These often signal developing issues. Regular maintenance prevents expensive repairs and extends component life significantly, making it cost-effective long-term.

While we specialize in repairs rather than sales, our mechanics have extensive knowledge across bicycle types and can provide honest advice. We'll discuss your intended use, budget, storage constraints, and physical requirements to recommend suitable options. We can assess used bicycles you're considering purchasing, checking frame condition, component wear, and identifying potential issues before you buy. This pre-purchase inspection costs £25 and can save hundreds by avoiding problematic purchases. We'll explain what repairs might be needed and estimated costs, helping you make informed decisions about whether a particular bicycle represents good value.

We accept cash, all major debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), and contactless payments up to £100. For larger repairs, we can split payment across multiple cards if needed. We also accept bank transfers for invoices over £200, though payment must clear before collection. Unfortunately, we don't currently offer financing or payment plans. We provide detailed itemized invoices for all work, which many customers use for insurance claims or cycle-to-work scheme reimbursements. Receipts are emailed automatically, and we maintain digital records for warranty purposes and future reference.

Squealing brakes are annoying but not always dangerous, though they warrant inspection. Common causes include contaminated pads or rotors, glazed brake pads, misaligned calipers, or worn components. Rim brakes may squeal due to worn pads, dirty rims, or incorrect toe-in adjustment. Disc brakes often squeal from oil contamination, which requires pad replacement and rotor cleaning. We'll identify the cause and recommend appropriate action. Sometimes a simple cleaning and adjustment resolves it; other times, pad replacement is necessary. Don't ignore brake issues - while squealing itself isn't always critical, it can indicate developing problems that could compromise stopping power.

Currently, we operate exclusively from our workshop at 123 Richmond Road, London, N1 3BU. This allows us to use specialized tools and equipment not feasible for mobile work, ensuring higher quality repairs. However, for customers unable to transport their bicycle, we can recommend local courier services that collect and deliver for approximately £15-25 within central London. Some customers also use our workshop as a convenient drop-off point when commuting. Our location is accessible by public transport and has secure bicycle parking outside. We're exploring mobile services for corporate clients and may expand this offering in future.

Yes, we service electric bicycles including Bosch, Shimano, Brose, and Yamaha motor systems. Our mechanics have completed manufacturer training for major e-bike systems. We perform battery health checks, motor diagnostics, software updates, and electrical troubleshooting. Standard mechanical components receive the same attention as traditional bicycles. However, warranty work on motor units must go through authorized service centres - we'll facilitate this process. We can't repair damaged battery cells but can diagnose charging issues and recommend replacement when necessary. E-bike services start at £65 due to additional diagnostic time required for electrical systems.

Wheel truing corrects lateral and radial wobbles by adjusting spoke tension. We mount the wheel in a truing stand, identify high and low spots, then systematically adjust spokes to bring the rim into alignment. The service includes spoke tension balancing, checking for damaged or loose spokes, inspecting the rim for cracks or wear, and ensuring the wheel is properly dished (centred). Minor truing costs £15 per wheel. Severely damaged wheels requiring extensive work or spoke replacement cost more. If the rim is bent beyond repair, we'll recommend replacement and can build custom wheels to your specifications using quality hubs, rims, and spokes.

Chains stretch through use, and timely replacement prevents expensive cassette and chainring damage. We measure chain wear using precision gauges - replacement is recommended at 0.5% wear for 11-speed systems, 0.75% for 8-10 speed systems. Visible signs include poor shifting, chain skipping under load, and excessive noise. Mileage varies by conditions: road riders might get 3,000-5,000 miles, while mountain bikers in wet conditions may need replacement every 1,000-2,000 miles. Regular cleaning and lubrication extends chain life significantly. During services, we always measure chain wear and advise if replacement is approaching, allowing you to budget accordingly.

Yes, puncture repairs are available as a while-you-wait service during business hours, typically taking 15-20 minutes depending on workshop demand. We charge £8 for a standard puncture repair, which includes removing the wheel, locating the puncture, patching the tube, checking the tyre for embedded debris, and refitting. If the tube is beyond repair or you prefer replacement, new tubes cost £6-12 depending on size and valve type, plus £5 fitting. We'll also inspect your tyre condition and recommend replacement if the tread is worn or sidewalls are damaged. No appointment needed for punctures, but calling ahead helps us prepare.

We occasionally purchase quality used bicycles for refurbishment and resale, though this isn't our primary business. We assess condition, brand, age, and market demand before making offers. Prices reflect the work needed to make the bicycle sale-ready. We don't operate a formal trade-in programme, but if you're having extensive work done, we might offset costs by taking your old bicycle. Alternatively, we can advise on selling privately or recommend reputable second-hand dealers in London. For bicycles beyond economical repair, we can dispose of them responsibly, recycling components and frames through appropriate channels rather than sending to landfill.

Bring your bicycle in rideable condition if possible, as this helps us assess handling issues. Remove all accessories like lights, computers, bags, and pumps - we're not responsible for items left on bicycles. If you have specific concerns, write them down so we don't miss anything during assessment. Bring any relevant documentation like previous service records, warranty information, or insurance details if claiming. We'll provide a detailed quote before starting work. For collection, bring photo ID matching the name on the service ticket. If someone else is collecting, notify us in advance with their details. We keep bicycles secure but recommend removing quick-release components in high-value cases.

About Rinofu

Since opening our workshop in 2015, we've established ourselves as a trusted bicycle repair service in London. What started as a small operation on Richmond Road has grown into a comprehensive facility serving cyclists throughout the N1 area and beyond.

Our workshop was founded by three mechanics who shared 30 years of combined experience in bicycle maintenance. We noticed that many local shops either rushed through repairs or charged excessive rates for basic services. This gap in the market motivated us to create a service that prioritizes both quality workmanship and fair pricing.

We handle everything from puncture repairs and brake adjustments to complete drivetrain overhauls and wheel building. Our mechanics work with road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrids, and cargo bicycles. Each repair follows a systematic inspection process to identify potential issues before they become serious problems.

Bicycle repair workshop at Rinofu

Our Approach to Service

Every bicycle that enters our workshop receives a thorough assessment. We document the current condition, explain necessary repairs, and provide transparent cost estimates before starting any work. This process ensures you understand exactly what your bicycle needs and why.

Our mechanics use Park Tool equipment and source replacement parts from established manufacturers. When multiple repair options exist, we present them with honest recommendations based on your riding habits and budget. We don't upsell unnecessary components or services.

The workshop operates six days a week, with extended hours on weekdays to accommodate commuters who need quick turnaround times. We maintain an organized queue system and provide realistic completion estimates. For urgent repairs, same-day service is often available.

Beyond repairs, we offer maintenance packages designed for regular cyclists. These services include seasonal tune-ups, safety inspections, and preventive adjustments that extend component lifespan. Many of our customers schedule quarterly visits to keep their bicycles running smoothly year-round.

Professional bicycle maintenance service

What Guides Our Work

Technical Precision

We follow manufacturer specifications and industry standards for every repair. Our mechanics regularly update their knowledge of new bicycle technologies and component systems.

Clear Communication

You receive detailed explanations of required repairs, realistic timelines, and accurate cost estimates. We contact you before performing any additional work beyond the initial quote.

Honest Assessment

If a component can be adjusted rather than replaced, we'll tell you. When a bicycle isn't worth repairing, we provide that assessment too. Our recommendations serve your interests, not our profit margins.

8 Years Serving London
4 Qualified Mechanics
2,800+ Bicycles Serviced Annually

Our location on Richmond Road provides easy access for cyclists throughout North London. The workshop includes dedicated spaces for different repair types, allowing our team to work efficiently without compromising attention to detail. We maintain a clean, organized environment where your bicycle receives the care it deserves.