I thought this would be simpler!
Okay, so here's my problem. I use a Paul Melvin chain tensioner and for the first year, everything was right with the world. I keep two chainrings up front so that I have a 2:1 and a, uh, 2.625:1 (?) gear ratio. Anyway, lately the thing has been "skipping." It makes a sound like when you change a gear on a geared bike and the spring arm with the pulleys on the chain tensioner tugs a little bit. Usually twice per revolution of the crankarms. I've changed the pulleys on the tensioner, made sure the chain line was right, tightened down the chainring bolts, put a new cog on, new chainrings... I just don't know what else it can be. It started shortly after I put on a new chain. I've put new chains on before, no big deal. I use the same brand of 8-speed chain I've always used. Does anybody have any ideas? Could the chain somehow be defective? I guess I could buy a new chain and see if that's it, but then I wouldn't have an excuse to ask yinz. I feel like something imperceptible is going on but I don't know what it is! Help!
Edit: This is my commuter (and only bike right now) and the lack of riding is killing me!
Posted Jan 31, 2013, 2:33 AM UTC
I would guess (and this is a guess) that your chain is getting worn. You might way to replace it. If that's not it, then your hanger may be bent. Have you had a crash/wreck/drop lately?
I'm thinking that it's the chain, too. It's only a couple weeks old though, and I've changed enough chains over the years and never had a problem. The only other thing I can see is that the spacer closest to the lockring on my freewheel is a little askew as though I overtorqued it. Chain check coming soon. I'll update this to let anyone that cares know if that was it. Thanks.
[deleted]
Great! I'm actually interested. Why, I don't know, but I am. Good luck!
Edit: you said that you replaced the pulley, cogs, and chainrings... Maybe the new chainrings are slightly thinner? Without knowing your set-up, I can't be sure, but if your chainline is off, that could be the issue. Some chain tensioners can be really finicky when it comes to alignment. Also, try the old 'take it apart, relax, put it back together. The axle may be slightly crooked in the dropouts (are they vertical?), and that can definitely cause skipping.
I'm going to try this approach on my next day off from everything. I consider myself a year-round commuter and I log about 3000 miles a year, but I'm not complaining about missing some of these single digit mornings around here lately.
I know what you mean about the temperatures... Sucks. I'm in New England... Let me know if you figure it out!