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If your drivetrain is a few years old or your cycling is changing, you may want to change your bike's transmission. Here's a little guide to make sure you don't go wrong...and don't forget anything.
Why change your bike transmission?
You may want to choose a new transmission on your road bike for several reasons:
- Because some components are worn out after many miles;
- To improve your performance.
The chain is usually the item that wears out the fastest. It is recommended to change it after 4000 kilometers. As for the cassette, it is recommended to change it about every 5,000 miles, or every other chain. And the platters should be changed about every two cassettes. These measurements are a guide: it may depend on the quality of the material, how you use it, your weight, etc.
If you continue to use a chain that is too worn, you will also prematurely damage the chainrings and cassette, not to mention the fact that gear changes will be more complicated and the chain may break at any time.
Other things to watch out for regularly are the rear and front derailleur cables. If you see them starting to fray, it's time to change them quickly. Otherwise, it's prudent to change them about every 15,000 to 20,000 miles.
Component compatibility
If you choose to change the entire drivetrain assembly, the issue won't really come up since all the components in a kit are compatible with each other.
On the other hand, if you are changing just a few parts such as the chain, cassette, derailleurs or crankset, you will need to make sure that the one you want to buy as a replacement is compatible with the ones installed on your bike.
For starters, you'll want to avoid mixing brands (Shimano, Campagnolo, Sram) that are rarely compatible with each other as technology advances.
And, even within the same brand, you'll need to make sure that the components are compatible with each other (frame compatibility with the bottom bracket, number of gears, derailleur clevis length, etc.).
Do it yourself or have it made?
Some components - like the chain, for example - are pretty easy to change yourself if you have the right tools, unless you're not a do-it-yourselfer.
For other items, it will be best to take your bike to a cycle mechanic so that it can be done properly and the settings optimized.
You now have all the information you need to know when and how to change the transmission on your bike.
