Rear hub "shield" replacement
 

My bike started making some scraping noises whenever it was freewheeling yesterday. When I looked closer, I found that the clear plastic "shield" that clips onto the rear hub was loose, and that two of the three clips that hold it in place were broken. To avoid possible further problems I managed to cut it off so I could continue riding.

Just out of curiousity, what is the function of this part? And then, how easy would it be for me to replace it myself? Obviously, the gear cassette has to come off, but I don't know if any special tools are required, or if there are specific torque requirements when reassembling it. Would I be better off just carrying the rear wheel to my LBS?

-- Doug

Keeps the Chain out of the rear spokes if the chain dreails off the big cog.No real need for it if RD is adjusted properly.If you can't break it out with needle nose pliers tak it to LBS.

If your chain ever derails into the rear wheel for any reason, it will immediately bugger up all of the spokes on the outside of the hub flange. If you are careful with your bike maintenance and never bend the derailleur hanger inward, that probably won't happen. Most people who ride lots don't feel the need to use spoke protectors. None of my personal bikes have them, but I used to make sure that the customer bikes I maintained did.

The hardest part of replaceing your spoke protector might be finding one. Replacement involves popping off the cassette and snapping the new spoke protector back on, a 5 minute job. They come in different sizes to match the largest cassette cog, and a spoke protector that is designed for a 32 spoke wheel won't work on one that has 36 spokes. I suspect that getting a replacement might be a special order item at your LBS and you might have to put up with some eye rolling at that.

Just set the limit screws on your derailleur properly. Never had an issue

If you really want to replace it, you can get one by following this link:http://www.biketoolsetc.com Search for spoke protector.

Doc

I have seen these referred to as "dork disks" time and again on the forums.