The True Cost of a Worn Bike Chain
See what skipping a chain replacement really costs — a worn chain grinds out your cassette and chainrings, the expensive parts.
A worn chain (past 0.75%) stops meshing cleanly and grinds down the cassette and chainring teeth. Timely chains keep those pricey parts alive far longer. Estimates use typical part lifespans; your mileage will vary.
Frequently asked questions
Does a worn chain really damage the cassette?
Yes. A stretched chain no longer meshes cleanly with the cassette and chainring teeth and grinds them down. Replace it past 0.75% wear and you often have to replace the cassette — and sometimes the chainrings — with it.
How much does replacing a chain on time save?
A chain is the cheapest drivetrain part. Replacing it on schedule can make a cassette and chainrings last several times longer, which the calculator turns into an annual and five-year saving for your mileage.