Recently got my Trek Domane attached to my new Saris H3 trainer (yay!), but I’m finding that when pedaling I am getting this incessant clicking noise when in the smaller cogs. I’m also finding that when downshifting, I can’t really fully tell but it seems like something is catching because sometimes it makes a sound like it’s stuck in between cogs and I need to hit one of the upper/lower shifters again to get it to stop making said noise. New cassette that came with the trainer, just cleaned and re-lubed my chain. I’m new to bike maintenance so go easy on me 😅, where do I go from here?!
Chain is “catching”/making a clicking noise when in the smallest cogs
byu/Phrogkid96 inbikewrench
by Phrogkid96
4 Comments
When you switch to a direct drive trainer you need to index your derailleur to the new spacing. You can find parktool videos on how. You will need to do the same thing when you put the wheel back on.
It sounds like you have an indexing issue. You need to adjust the cable tension until the chain no longer catches. That’s not easy on a trainer as it’s much harder to pedal by hand. Also a possible culprit: in the first video clip it looks like your derailleur hanger is bent. But in the second, it looks ok. Might be worth checking it with a hanger gauge.
Your chain looks to be routed wrong in the rear derailleur cage? It’s clicking on the little tab between the pulleys? When you cleaned your chain did you remove it from the bike? I also could be seeing it wrong. Otherwise it would be an indexing issue with the limit screws on the derailleur and cable tension. As well making sure the new cassette is compatible with your drivetrain. Example 10spd cassette, chain and shifter. If the cassette that came with the trainer is different than what came with your bike could also cause issues that will never be fully resolved.
Yep, you’ve done the thing! We’ve all done the thing, don’t feel bad.