Chain question

Cluelessbutkeen

Hi all.

I have a 10-year-old Ridgeback Velocity (hybrid). Until 12 months ago I just used it to potter about so probably very little mileage. Since then I have been going out a few times a week and have done about 3,000 miles on it. I can't afford a road bike so I just use this instead.

Anyway, inspired by a bike maintenance article I read, I bought a BBB chain checker and it just drops right through the links and even wobbles from side to side there is that much slack. So, my questions:

1) Is the chain checker result valid for a hybrid bike? The chain is a Shimano HG50.

2) If the result is valid - ie. I need to change the chain - then is it OK to put a new chain onto chainrings and cassette that I'm guessing are also pretty worn? I can't really afford to replace those

Thanks in advance for all your help!

Cluelessbutkeen

Thanks for the quick reply. Looks like it's a tiny bit over 12" and 1/16th so I will replace the chain as you suggest.

I didn't think 3,000 miles would be enough to wear out a chain but the numbers and the checker both agree, so there we go.

earthvspace4XTuUWcX

Agree and would just replace the chain. Best to replace the chain earlier rather than later, then less likely to get more expensive wear to the rest of the drive train.

Initialised

1000 to 4000miles is reasonable life for a chain, mine's on 2600miles and is down to 0.75 on the Birzman so about due.

If you get jumpy gears when you put the new chain on then you'll need a new cassette.

I like KMC chains, they seem to last longer and their quick links make taking it on and off for waxing really easy.

Cluelessbutkeen

Thanks Initialised. This is probably a naive question, but can I replace a Shimano chain with a KMC chain? The rest of the set up, gears and derailleur etc is all Shimano (3 chainrings and 8 gears on the back).

Cluelessbutkeen

Thanks!

Miles253

Sorry for slight highjack, but is there a good KMC recommendation for a Campy user? comparable in function and preferably price to a Centaur chain?

Cluelessbutkeen

Just to conclude the story — I bought and fitted the new chain but it slips and skips very badly so I have concluded that I need to replace the cassette as well. Have put the old chain back on for now.