How often should you replace your chain?

 When 12 links of the chain measure more than 12 and one eighth inches from pin to pin.

Each chain link is 1" long. Measure 12 links. If the chan has stretched to the point where it is 12-1/16" long or more, it's time to replace it.

Park Tool actually sells a gauge just for this purpose:

http://www.parktool.com/tools/CC_2.shtml

And HERE http://www.sheldonbrown.com/chains.html
is an article with more than you ever wanted to know about the topic, including the interaction between chain and sprocket wear...

:)


Edited by BGTwinDad 2005-05-16 12:31 PM

I don't know that there's a general rule of thumb such as "3 times a year" or "every 1200 miles."  When it's stretched as mentioned above, it's time to fork out the cash for a new one.  Welcome to the world of preventive maintenance.

yup, and every two or three chains gets you a new cassette. lots of fun!

And every third or so cassette is worth a set of chainrings

I depends is what my LBS told me. Clean it every day and you may get 3000 miles outta it. If you clean it every two weeks or so it's good to replace it every 1000 miles.

and every third set of chain ring the frame has 10,000m on it and is getting to be putty. New bike time!

I love this game!

Edited by zakk 2005-05-16 3:44 PM

And every 3 frames is worth a divorce.  By analyzing your riding habits you can make a prediction as to the length of your marriage.  Apparently I've got about 2 years left

There is no general rule of thumd cause of too many factors. Hill, sand, dirt, dry, wet , lub, no lub,
cheap metal good metal , slow , fast, just measure and get new one.