Chain worn out?
 

I went to my LBS for a tune up, and to fix my bent dropouts. He said the chain was almost 100% worn out. How can this be? I've ridden the bike for 3 months. Whats wrong?

Did you clean and lube your chain on a regular basis?

... Brad

Well, it depends on many factors like lubing and cleaning frequency, how hard you smash on your pedals, the weather, how you use your gears and the quality of the chain and the amount of use. It is possible to wear a chain in three months, but I think it is highly unlikely.

Ricardo

Well, I lubed it once, I ride hard, and in all weather, hardest gears.

How long would that last?

About 3 months.

So I should replace soon?

What happens if you use the "worn out" chain until it breaks?

When shifting, and then you pedal, it kind of stops the pedals and pushed you forward.

You certainly need to replace it. Good news is that quality chains are cheap to replace. If you don't, your cassette will start wearing down too faster than normal.

Ricardo

Do I need a new cassette too?

That depends on what your bike shop means by "almost 100% worn out".

To me, a chain is almost worn out if much more wear will mean putting on a new chain will mean you need a new cassette. Past that point, it really is better just to keep riding the whole system until it becomes unusable then replace chain, ring and cassette together.

Summary:

Clean your chain regularly and measure periodically. At or before .75% wear you should replace the chain. Otherwise, you could end up with skipping.

After that, just keep riding. Replacing the chain means replacing the cassette and ring(s) as well.

Sheldon Brown (sheldonbrown.com) has a good chain article, and a great idea for cleaning the chain--basically install a quick link, remove the chain and put it into a plastic soda bottle filled with degreaser, shake, remove and allow to dry before installing and lubing.

I haven't tried it yet but i hear some really good reports on Boeshield as a lube. I've heard it was available at Sears--anyone know?