Chains are cheap compared with the damage they can cause. A noise that appears after rain, a tyre change or a long trip should be investigated before the next ride.
Listen and locate
A rhythmic click once per wheel revolution suggests a tight spot or a damaged link. A constant whine can be a dry chain or a worn sprocket. A clunk under acceleration may be slack or a worn cush drive.
Put the bike on a stand and rotate the wheel slowly. Watch the chain as it runs and feel for tight links.
Measure, don't guess
Measure slack at the specified point with the bike in the specified condition. Then measure wear over a set number of links. A chain can be correctly adjusted and still be worn out.
Check for tight spots by rotating the wheel and measuring slack at several points. A chain that changes tension is worn.
Inspect sprockets and alignment
Hooked or pointed teeth mean the sprocket is worn. A new chain on worn sprockets will wear quickly. Check the rear-wheel alignment marks and the axle adjusters.
A misaligned wheel causes noise and uneven wear. Use the marks and, if in doubt, a straight edge.
Lubricate correctly
Clean the chain, let it dry and apply lubricant to the inside of the links. Too much lubricant attracts grit; too little wears the O-rings. Do not pressure-wash the seals.
A dry chain after rain is the most common cause of avoidable wear.
Checklist
- Slack measured at the specified point.
- Tight spots found by rotating the wheel.
- Sprocket teeth for hooks and wear.
- Rear-wheel alignment.
- Lubrication and O-ring condition.
- Chain wear measurement over links.
- Cush-drive and axle condition.
Questions
Can I ride with a noisy chain?
A short ride to a workshop is one thing; ignoring a tight spot or a worn chain is another. A broken chain can lock the rear wheel.
Why does the chain get noisy after rain?
Water washes off lubricant and promotes corrosion. Dry and lubricate after wet rides.
Do I need a new chain and sprockets together?
Usually yes. A new chain on worn sprockets wears quickly.
