Originally posted by Cambronne
I spent my early days riding whatever used machines papa could obtain... Peugeot, Gitane, Raleigh, and one bright yellow mystery frame, with no label or decals... that, predictably, was the best bike I ever had. I don't recall ever changing a worn-out chain back then, perhaps because my bikes were usually stolen long before the parts wore out!
If I were to guess, I bet the older bikes had steel chainrings - any idea? Today's lightweight aluminum rings wear out quick and you will see"burrs" (for lack of a better word) on the edges of teeth which contribute to poor chain/chainring performance. I've never seen the burrs or kind of wear on steel granny gear chainrings I've had. Also, I think the bikes of yesteryear were built with longevity in mind more than the disposible parts we see today.