Changing the cassette: is it necessary to change the rear derailleur and/or chain?

Asked by: Matt Glass

Should you replace chain when replacing cassette?

You should change your chain at the same time as the cassette and/or chainset. “A worn chain on a new cassette or chainrings will only accelerate the wear,” says Chris McKenney.

Should I replace chain when changing derailleur?

Replacing your chain as it wears out is good preventative maintenance, much like changing the oil in your car. It prolongs the service life of other, more expensive parts on your bike, so replacing your chain before it becomes too worn is a good idea.

Does derailleur need to match cassette?

The rear derailleur must be matched to the size of the largest rear sprocket. This capacity, which is expressed in terms of teeth, accounts for both the difference in size between both chainrings (e.g. 14T for a 53/39T crankset) and the largest and smallest sprockets on the bike (e.g. 17T for an 11-28T cassette).

How often should you replace chain and cassette?

At our shop, we suggest a new cassette every 2 times you replace your chain, IF you stay on top of your maintenance schedule. With 99% of customers this would mean a new cassette every 1-2 years depending on how much you ride it. If you are a commuter and ride everyday, your timeframe for replacement gets much smaller.

How do I know if my rear cassette needs replacing?

Quote from video: Now what you're looking out for is when the teeth of the ring. Start to become hooked. Like little shark's teeth. And that is a surefire sign that you need to replace the chain rings. But it's worth

How long does rear cassette last?

Very Roughly: bike cassette can last between 4000 to 6000 miles, and some can last up to 10,000 miles, an equivalent of 3 to 4 chains, it depends on the quality of the cassette itself, maintenance, and riding conditions.

Can I use any cassette with any derailleur?

As a general rule of thumb, it’s best not to mix and match drivetrain components from different brands. While things such as cranks, chains and cassettes are mostly inter-compatible between brands, generally speaking, shifters and derailleurs aren’t.

How do I know if my bike chain needs replacing?

Quote from video: If it lifts off the chain ring to where you can see a lot of daylight between your chain and chain rings.

How much does it cost to replace a bike cassette?

The cost to replace a cassette or freewheel can range anywhere from $25 to upwards of $300 on high end bikes and chainrings can run anywhere from around $40 to $250 on high end bikes.

How long do rear derailleurs last?

Good quality rear derailleur can last between 3 to 5 years, when unbranded or low-quality ones can last for 2 years, no matter what the durability of the rear derailleur the jockey wheel will wear after time and it can be replaced very cheaply with new ones, on the other hand, front derailleur can last almost

How much does it cost to replace a rear derailleur?

If you take your MTB into a local bike shop the average price to replace a rear derailleur is going to be $110. If you DIY replacing a derailleur will cost about $50 (plus your time) This price will depend a lot on the actual derailleur needed. Usually a bike shop will also take care of other problems.

Will a 9-speed rear derailleur work with an 8 speed cassette?

Condensed answer: 8 and 9-speed derailleurs have the same rear shift ratio but only when both models are made either by Shimano or SRAM. In consequence, a 9-speed derailleur can work just fine with an 8-speed cassette produced by the same brand.

How many miles should a bike chain last?

2,000 to 3,000 miles

Replacing your chain regularly can prolong the life of your drivetrain. Most mechanics agree that you should replace your chain about every 2,000 to 3,000 miles, depending on your riding style.

What does a worn bike cassette look like?

Quote from video: Become greater and the roller is no longer sit down at the bottom of the groove but tend to roll up onto the top of the teeth wearing the teeth and deforming the tee.

How do I know if my chain ring is worn?

How To Know When To Change Your Chain, Cassette And …

When should I replace my bike chain?

If you are using a chain designed for ten or fewer gears, replace your chain as it nears the 0.75 percent mark. If you are using an eleven or twelve speed chain, replace your chain once it has reached 0.5 percent wear. For two-sprocket or single speed bikes, replace your chain as it reaches the 1 percent wear mark.

How often should a bike chain be replaced?

about every 2,000 to 3,000 miles

Most mechanics agree that you should replace your chain about every 2,000 to 3,000 miles, depending on your riding style. Many Tour De France riders wear out two or even three chains on their primary bike over the course of the three-week race.

Can you replace bike chain without cassette?

Most chain manufacturers recommend that their chains are replaced when they have elongated by 0.75%. Because the chain wears slightly faster than the cassette, this is the point where you can usually just replace the chain (and not the cassette) if both were new to start with.

When should I replace my cassette on my road bike?

High-mileage riders might replace their cassette after every season, while lower-mileage riders might replace it every few years. It can also depend on how well you take care of your bike, and specifically your chain; a grimy, gritty chain or an old, stretched-out chain can wear down a cassette faster.

How much does it cost to replace a bike cassette?

The cost to replace a cassette or freewheel can range anywhere from $25 to upwards of $300 on high end bikes and chainrings can run anywhere from around $40 to $250 on high end bikes.

How do I know if my bike chain is worn?

Pull the chain at the front of the chainring as shown. If the chain starts to lift off the top and/or the bottom of where it sits on the chainring teeth, this means that the chain is starting to wear or is worn. If your chain lifts off the ring like this, it’s likely worn.