The Smallest Change, The Biggest Improvement

There is a view - generally promoted by the bike trade - that a new chain should always be used with new sprockets. I believe this is rubbish. The chain wears more quickly than the sprockets, and while it is true that a new chain won't run on badly worn teeth, it's not true that the sprockets have to be virgin. Chains are generally cheaper than sprockets, so I think we can see where the trade is coming from!

I usually replaced my chain every 1,000 or so miles to prevent wear and tear, especially on old bicycle with a rare 6 speed freewheel.