A $385 bike(s) repair bill serves as a great reminder to keep close tabs on your bike chain

A $385 bike(s) repair bill serves as a great reminder to keep close tabs on your bike chain
Originally uploaded by BroAndDonna

Years ago I learned that you can save your chainrings and cassette by making sure you replace your chain on a regular basis. We're religious about lubing the chains, but when you ride four different bikes, it's hard to keep track of how many miles you've got on any given chain. I've had a Park chain-checker for a while and discovered the biggest flaw in the tool this week - you have to actually use it in order for it to work.

So both of our mtn bikes went into the shop (I really don't have the time anymore for home repairs) where they confirmed the chains were overdue for replacement, so overdue that we had to not only purchase new chains, but three new chainrings as well. Fortunately, the cassettes survived.

Turns out, I also needed new brake pads (front and rear) and Donna needed a new back tire and some new cables. So there you have it... $385.00!!