How to tell when your chain is worn out

A worn chain slowly eats the cassette and chainrings. Replacing the chain on time is far cheaper than replacing the whole drivetrain.

Measure it

A chain checker takes ten seconds. If the reading reaches 0.75%, replace the chain. At 1% the cassette is usually worn as well.

Typical lifetime

Between 3 000 and 5 000 km, depending on conditions and how often you clean and lubricate it.