SpeedyBlueBiker

How long does a chain and rear cassette usually last for you? I have put just over 4000 miles on my Tarmac and seem to have some wear on my chain and rear cassette. I really only ride this bike in good weather conditions. I ride my "rain" bike for not so good conditions. Ultegra chain and rear cassette if it matters.

shelbyfv

Measure your chain and replace when needed. You cannot judge wear on the cassette by sight. Replace the cassette when it doesn't work with a new chain. All you need to know. Mileage of others is irrelevant.

pdlamb

If you notice wear by any other method than measurement, it's time to start shopping for a chain and a cassette. And possibly chainrings.

FWIW (which isn't much), I tend to wear out chains roughly every 2,000-2,500 miles. If I replace the chain then, the cassettes normally last three chains. I go through drivetrains faster than some, probably because up until last year I was an all weather commuter. I was "too busy" a couple years back and went 4,000 miles, and needed to replace everything -- cassette, chain, and rings.

Also FWIW, I've not seen much difference in chain life between brands or models. Less expensive cassettes with steel cogs do seem to last longer than pricier models with all aluminum cogs. Downright cheap cassettes seem to be made of cheese and wear much sooner.

DaveSSS 

Install a new chain now and hope that you don't get new-chain skip on one or more of the most worn sprockets, when pedaling with a high torque, like most out of the saddle pedaling. If you get some skip, you waited too long. I use 3-4 chains in a rotation so I never get new-chain skip.

SpeedyBlueBiker

Thanks for all the advice!