I just replaced my faithful SRAM X5 cassette as it was worn out after I have put in >6800km on it. I would say it was very long lasting as I had it for 3.5 years and all the abused I had put in. I hardly take care of the chain or cassette as I hardly wash them. I normally got very tired after a ride, so I would just rinsed my bike with water and store it. I would wash them probably once every 2 months (or more :o) but I did lube them occasionally and normally excessively too. But, I always make sure the chain needs to be changed once it is worn out except for once I missed out. That’s when I firstly got my bike. From then onwards, I occasionally check the length using a chain checker. I am sure the cassette will last longer if I take care of the whole drivetrain a little more.
X5 is not the lightest cassette as it weighs 395g but it is strong. I have used it to climb many hills and Penang Hill is one of the list. It is finally gave up on me as it started to jump gears and I had the intention to bring this bike for touring. So, I have no choice but to replace it with another brand new SRAM X7 (PG-1050). X7 is <100g lighter than X5 and it weights 299g. I picked X7 over X5 as the pricing (MYR25) is not much different and it is 100g lighter.
Since I had my chain and cassette replaced, it was no point for me to keep the old chainrings. So, I had them replaced too. I had used the 38T chainring as long as my cassette and the 24T was the 2nd sets. I believe the 24T still usable for another few hundreds kilometers.
Well, my X7 review will probably take some time as it is harder for me to accumulate the mileage now especially I have 2 bikes.
Will I use SRAM again if I have to replace them? The answer is DEFINITELY. It is basically low maintenance and long lasting. Keep up the great work SRAM guys!!!
Traveling & Cycling 