Dulwich Hill Bicycle Club

Thinking of switching out a cassette for one more favourable for climbing. What is the rule re: chains?

Do I need a chain for each cassette or can I switch cassettes and keep the same chain? I regularly check the stretch. Is this enough to ensure I don't trash two cassettes?

Advice is appreciated. Until then I'll stick with my 11-25

No rules.

If you care to go through the troubles, then obviously a cassette-chain pair is best. Otherwise it's a life choice and it's only money.

I've been swapping between cassettes no problem for quite a while.

As Weiyun said, keep the chain and cassette as a pair if you want the best life from them

This is a little off topic.
I have a joining link and take the chain off to clean it.
Does it matter whether or not it goes back on the in the same direction?
Both ends look identical, so unless I mark one somehow, there a is 50/50 chance of it going on back to front.

Paul

This is a little off topic.
I have a joining link and take the chain off to clean it.
Does it matter whether or not it goes back on the in the same direction?
Both ends look identical, so unless I mark one somehow, there a is 50/50 chance of it going on back to front.

Paul

I know this one. There is only one direction. The writing on a Shimano chain should face outside. I have an Ultegra chain and there are cutouts on the inside. Check the Shimano site for details on how to fit a chain.

What about a kmc chain?

I never really thought about making sure I put the chain back on the same direction. Maybe I should

Thanks, I didn't know that.
How about Campagnolo?
Paul

No idea on KMC or Campag.

How about Campagnolo?

For 10/11 speed chain pins at least, they are not designed to be re-used. Use a replacement pin or more properly, put in a chain link section to avoid using the same link.

To me, reliability of the chain is absolutely critical. One of those safety items on the bike that must not be short changed.

So I swapped out my chain and cassette and followed the instructions but neglected to read the fine print for chain length for a 11-28. I'm meant to leave a little extra for the 28t cog. Seems to run ok on the big ring but the derailleur is almost at its limit. I guess it will be ok if I don't cross chain.....

Anyway I've ordered another two chains as wiggle are selling them cheap and my old one on the 11-25 is almost fully worn.