Originally Posted by
elcyc
I don't get it.
Growing up with 10-speed Peugeots, Raleighs and Schwinns ... riding thru salt and snow ... never washing these bikes ... and lubing twice a year (if that!) ... and NEVER replacing chains (much less freewheels, etc) ... I don't ever recall skipping or jumping issues.
Old chains on old cassettes don't usually skip. It's when you replace an old chain which has stretched more than about 3/32" in 12". The stretched chain will wear the cogs. If you spend more time in the little cogs they'll wear faster.
Also, if you never lube your chain they'll wear faster so when you do change the chain you'll be forced to change the cassette as well. Not a big deal if the cassette is inexpensive but if you're running expensive cassettes it pays to keep up with your chain maintenance.