Newbie Q: Chainwheel Problems - Cycling Mob: Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and More

08-07-2004, 11:52 PM

Hi Folks,

Earlier this year (May) I jumped into the ol' biking world with my
first MTB. I wasn't sure how often I would ride, so I didn't purchase
anything too fancy - a Giant Rincon. Anyhow, ever since I got the bike
I've been riding 25-50KM, per day, almost every day, and have since
logged a fair amount of time in the saddle. Most rides are either on
the road or basic trails, nothing too hardcore yet.

While riding yesterday it felt like the chain "slipped" a few times,
so after getting home and checking it out I found there were several
"tears" in the front middle chainwheel. between the teeth.

Assuming what I'm explaining makes sense, can anyone tell me what
might cause this sort of damage? I've never had any accidents on the
bike, never gotten anything caught in the chain, and I don't shift
while peddling hard in the middle of a climb.

Thanks a bunch for any/all replies!

Doug.