I took the new bike to the LBS for the free 250 mile tune up. Does a bike need tuning every 250? I am approaching 500 and everything seems okay, just curious.

Thanks

Things settle out of adjustment slightly as they wear in. Go back again as necesary.

Speaking as an LBS employee - adjustments, yes. tune-up - no.

Usually cables stretch so dereilurs become miss alligned. So you might notice skipping in the rear, chain rubbing in front. Umm thats about it actually. One thing I discovered with my new bike (I guess I forgot with my old one), is that original stuff they put on a chain is pure crap. It's like a freaken magnet for dirt and grime. So might be a good idea to clean the chain and put something else on. Which is a personal preference. I like white lightning.

After the initial period--cable stretch and the other things mentioned by the other posters--no, your bike will probably not need any attention within 250 miles, assuming everything is set up right in the first place and in working order. Clean and lube as needed, keep an eye on the chain for wear, and you shouldn't have to worry for months and miles. I deal with adjustments as necessary and get a major overhaul at the start of each season. That's it. Of course, problems can arise, but neither adjustments nor tune ups are matters of routine "every 250 miles."

I agree you don't need to go back at 500 if things are fine. You should get the bike overhauled every year, though, just to prevent damage to your headset, hubs, BB, etc.