Who has the loudest crunchy kneecaps? I'll sure be in the running.

Straight-legged weight lifting, proper saddle height and position, low gears with high cadence and NO mashing, maybe custom orthotics (depends what is causing the femur to grind on the patella). Build a good base before going gonzo in the hills. I also use Ibuprofen before a ride where I think my knees might be at risk. Stopping the inflammation before it starts seems to be a big factor. Of course, RICE after any ride where you have pain.

Make sure you do any lifting or stair climbing, etc., with your legs properly positioned - with your knee behind the ball of your foot or you'll have problems. Easier to see it in runners - the heel strike needs to be out in front.

You really do need to know what caused the chondromalacia to treat it properly.