My wife has a Specialized Rockhopper with a SRAM SX Eagle drivetrain. When riding in the highest gear (11T cog), the chain constantly skips – see the video.
It only happens on the smallest cog (11T).
The skipping occurs every 10–15 seconds, not more often or less often.
The bike has been at the shop multiple times, but they say it’s just “cheap components” and can’t be fixed.
Warranty has now expired.
The bike is basically unused (maybe a dozen rides in 4 years) because it’s no fun to ride like this.
Does anyone know what exactly needs to be repaired or replaced to fix this? I’d rather spend some money to make it rideable and fix it myself than let it collect dust.
Thanks in advance!
Chain skipping – how to fix?
byu/Weak-Measurement-680 inbikewrench
by Weak-Measurement-680
6 Comments
Probably a new chain and cassette
Looks to me like you may have a frozen link in your chain. I’d suggest replacing the chain first, and if the issue persists, check the new chain and if that’s fine, get a new cassette.
Total reset:
-Size chain
– inspect chain for bent, kinked or damaged links ( also tight links & master link engagement)
-Align der hanger
-set der limits
Also
Inspect der cage for damage (bent or alignment)
Also inspect the problem cog for a damaged tooth or burr.
Mileage/use doesn’t add up to worn components.
Regardless of where your group falls in the hierarchy, this should not happen JRA.
Stop using the smallest cog.
Several reasons this might happen:
* Stiff chain link – unable to go around the smallest cog, but the other gears works fine.
* Too tight wire. Just enough that the second smallest cog/gear catch the chain, sometimes
* The L limit screw is a little too tight.
* chain has “stretched” and/or the cog/gear is worn.
1. Start with cleaning the gears/cogs and chain. Use a brush and water on the cog/gears. Clean the chain with chain oil and a rag. Several times. Little use in adjusting anything which is impregnated with dirt.
2. Check the chain, link for link that they rotate freely. Check chain for wear with a wear indicator tool. Should be under 0,75 % for this drivetrain.
3. Adjust (loose) cable /wire tension by turning adjuster (usually at the shifter) a couple of clicks clockwise
4. Loose the L screw on the gear 1/4 turn. See if that helps. Try another 1/4 turn if needed. You probably don’t want to adjust it more that half a turn.
Don’t go to next step before you have done the last. Don’t do 3 and 4 if 1 and 2 fixed it. If 3. didn’t help, reset what you did, before going to 4.
Pinch the chain with 2 fingers so it has to serpentine to get through them. Back pedal and you will likely find a stiff or bent chain link.