How long does a bike chain last?

A road bike chain typically lasts 3000-5000 km in dry conditions, but as little as 1500-2500 km in wet winter conditions. Regular cleaning and lubrication extends chain life significantly.

When should I replace my tyres?

Replace tyres when the tread is worn smooth (road tyres) or the knobs are worn down (MTB). Most road tyres last 3000-6000 km. Also replace if you see cuts, bulges or frequent punctures.

How do conditions affect wear?

Wet and gritty conditions can halve the life of most components. Road grit acts as an abrasive paste on chains, cassettes and brake pads. Winter riding is especially hard on drivetrains.

Does replacing the chain save money?

Yes. A worn chain wears the cassette and chainrings much faster. Replacing a chain at £15-20 every 3000 km is far cheaper than replacing a cassette (£30-80) and chainrings (£30-100).

How can I make components last longer?

Clean your chain regularly, lubricate with the right lube (wet or dry), keep tyres properly inflated, and wash your bike after wet rides. A clean drivetrain lasts significantly longer.

BikeCalcs

Component Life Calculator — When to Replace Bike Parts

Estimate replacement intervals for all major bike components based on your riding.

Weekly Riding Distance

Bike Type

Riding Conditions

How We Calculate This

Component Life Estimation

Base life in km varies by component and bike type
Condition multiplier: Dry (+30%), Mixed (baseline), Wet (-30%), Winter (-50%)
Adjusted life = Base life x Condition multiplier
Months to replacement = Adjusted life / Monthly km

Chain: 2000-3500 km base | Tyres: 3000-5000 km | Brake pads: 3000-5000 km | Cassette: 10,000 km | Cables: 8000 km

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify results and consult a professional bike fitter where appropriate.