Component lifetime?

[jrenaut]

So, I bought my bike the end of May 2011. I started off putting maybe 30 miles a week on it, and worked up to 50-75 miles a week. I do almost all of my riding in the city, and ride in all but the worst weather.

Today I brought my bike in to my LBS for warranty adjustments, and they said I need to replace the chain, cassette, crankset, and bottom bracket. I know I don’t clean my chain and gears much, but does this seem excessive? Aside from cleaning, which I know I have to do better, are there other things to do to get a bit more life out of the drivetrain?

Topic

[ronwalf]

@jrenaut 19148 wrote:

Would towing a trailer full of children regularly make a difference?

Follow the torque! The torque you apply to the chain (and thus the teeth on the cassette) is from:

1. Your pressure on the pedal
2. Crank length
3. Size (teeth) of the chain ring

That’s it! So other than a tendency towards the smallest chain ring, you’re not likely to be putting outrageous pressure on the chain and cassette. You might be shaving a few miles off the rear tire and brakes, though.

[off2ride]

If all 3 chain rings are available then why not just replace the rings. As long as it’s compatible, has the right diameter and teeth count. Replace the crank if the threads for the pedal is severely stripped and/or if the pedal spindle broke off. You might have to pay more labor since the bike tech will be dismantling the rings.

[creadinger]

@jrenaut 19195 wrote:

This is the bike. I assume they would put the same components on as what came with it, but that wasn’t specified. The website lists the crankset as FSA Tempo, 30/42/52.

One thing you could do is, as you replace these parts upgrade with durability in mind? I’ve been trying to do that with my ‘Cross bike, replacing the original parts with more durable touring style stuff. I don’t race, so I don’t need the expensive super light racing parts. I also really do not want the cheap crap, which will have a short lifespan with all the abuse they take.

I echo what most people have mentioned I think – the chain and cassette probably need to be replaced. The other stuff you’ll need more information on I think.

[jrenaut]

I brought the bike to The Bike House over the weekend, where they used a chain tool to confirm that my chain is in need of replacement. The front chain rings are showing signs of wear, too. So I guess I’m going to get some stuff replaced.

Should I just get the same components I have now? Should I think about upgrading to something tougher if I’m going to continue to beat the crap out of my bike?

I can’t go from 3 front chain rings to 2 without changing a bunch of other stuff, too? The only time I ever use the small ring is when I accidentally shift twice, and then I only use it long enough to shift back to the middle ring.

[Author]

Replies