830 miles

[compo]

When I bought my new Trek hybrid I decided to come into the 21st century and stop using oil on my chains and switch to wax based lubricants. At 830 miles since new my chain (KMC) is worn out and I have today replaced it. 830 miles is taking the p**s. On my old bike my chains lasted far longer with regular cleaning and good old fashioned oil. My new chain is going back to oil. I haven't checked it on the road yet but I am hoping my cassette isn't stuffed after such a low mileage, although 8 speeds are not too expensive thankfully.

 

[chewy]

They don't make them like they used to!

 

[slowmotion]

I got 4000+ miles out of my KMC 10 speed chain. I wasn't exactly obsessive about looking after it either. Mind you, I didn't exactly stress it!

 

[HLaB]

If you are using a chain measurer they are a little premature, typically according to them I get 1500miles (regardless of brand/width) before the chain damages the cassette (0.75% chain wear) but my last 10sp KMC lasted 4000+ winter miles before I replaced it and there was no cassette damage (no skip).

 

[HovR]

Out of interest, with what lubricant was this?

 

[slowmotion]

Mine was Finish Line Cross Country Wet Lubricant, used in both winter and summer. It seems to work.

 

[HLaB]

Out of interest, with what lubricant was this?

I use Finish Line Ceramic Wet Lube, I tried the dry wax but the weather since has been As of 2 weeks ago I started using the wet lube again. On my utility bikes I use the cheaper Finish Line extreme wet lube.

 

[compo]

Perhaps my error was using a Bike Hut wax lube. I am a heavyweight at 18 stone and several of my rides are fairly hilly so I guess my chains do work hard. It will be interesting to see how the new chain goes with normal oil.

In response to HlaB I did use a wear gauge!

 

[Globalti]

Hmmmm.. my KMC chain (don't know the code) has lasted 4500 very hilly miles so far and was only about half worn last time I checked it. Mind you I'm a relative lightweight at 72 kgs or 11 1/2 stone and I do clean it thoroughly in paraffin every couple of months then lube with Finish Line. I only re-lube it every month or so after that.

Which reminds me.... since it's rest day on the TDF I might remove the chain and give it a soak tonight.