Chain noise
Tension, wear, and lubrication
This free guided diagnosis asks up to 5 questions about what the bike is actually doing and narrows it down to 5 possible faults, each with a safety call, what it costs to fix, and the guide that fixes it.
What causes chain noise?
Chain too loose
Excessive slack causes slapping and accelerated wear. Adjust to spec immediately.
Ride with caution. Adjust before your next ride. A chain that jumps the sprocket can lock the rear wheel. Typical cost: $0-20 DIY, $50-110 at a shop.
Chain too tight
Over-tightened chain causes binding and premature wear on sprockets and bearings.
Ride with caution. Slacken it before your next ride. Over-tight chains kill output shaft bearings and can snap under suspension travel. Typical cost: $0-20 DIY, $50-110 at a shop.
Chain needs lubrication
Dry/rusty chain creates noise and dramatically shortens life. Clean and lube immediately.
Ride with caution. Clean and lube it today. A dry chain wears out in a fraction of its normal life and can seize a link. Typical cost: $15-40 DIY, $50-100 at a shop.
Chain worn out — replacement needed
Tight spots indicate stretched/kinked links. Replace chain and inspect sprockets.
Ride with caution. Replace soon. A worn chain can break, and on some bikes it takes the case or your leg with it. Typical cost: $120-300 DIY, $280-550 at a shop.
Sprocket wear
Hooked or shark-fin shaped teeth indicate worn sprockets. Usually replace with chain.
Ride with caution. Book the work soon. Worn teeth let the chain climb and skip under power. Typical cost: $110-280 DIY, $260-520 at a shop.