Bicycle Mechanics - new Centaur cassette--should I use it yet?

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Defiant54
09-06-07, 12:30 AM
When I put on my new chain (I change them every 2,000 miles), I had all kinds of skipping of gears when the chain was under pressure. (BTW, the cables are set right, etc.) All indications are that I need a new cassette (it has about 14,000 miles on it). I ordered a new one by mail. While waiting for it, I decided to put on my old chain back on. The old, stretched chain and the worn cassette are a good combo and they ride smoothly together.

Should I ride this combo until both the cassette and the chain are really toast? Will that create problems for other components?

Bob Dopolina
09-06-07, 02:13 AM
If is seems to be shifting well and you are not planning on racing on it, I would use it until you noticed a deterioration in performance.

2000 miles seems like a pretty short life span. Which chains are you using?
Zouf
09-06-07, 07:08 AM
It will deteriorate the chainrings faster. If the chainrings have the same mileage as the cassette, they may not be in great condition either.

Gimix
09-06-07, 08:03 AM
This is why my boss always says if you replace the cassette or chain you should replace them both. Chains stretch over time. So you could have a skipping problem if you replace it now.
HillRider
09-06-07, 09:20 AM
It will deteriorate the chainrings faster. If the chainrings have the same mileage as the cassette, they may not be in great condition either.
Chainrings are remarkably tolerant of worn chains within reason. I've gotten over 30,000 miles on a set of Shimano 105 chainrings and only change the chain at 5,000 or 6,000 mile intervals. Unless the chainring teeth are badly pointed or hooked, don't worry about them.

BTW, Timcuppery has a photo of a BADLY worn chainring he posts every so often and if yours doesn't look like it, you're ok.
Defiant54
09-07-07, 12:32 AM
Thanks, everyone. I decided to put on the new cassette and chain. Smoothe and sounds great.

In response to Bob Dapolina's comment. I change my chain at 2,000 miles not matter what. I was advised to do that by a couple of people I admire and trust. I use Wippermann Connex chains for Campy 10-speed--the nickel plated, NOT the stainless steel.

Rich