Freewheel Issue

[Edwards80]

Had my first failed commute this morning - the freewheel on my Triban 3 stopped engaging, which left me looking like a muppet when trying to join a busy RAB

Fortunately it's covered under the warranty so I should be getting it replaced today. I'm just curious as to how long they should last? I've done about 1100 miles on it , mostly in nasty winter conditions so far.

 

[dellzeqq]

I've only ever had one fail in almost fifty years, and I've had one do 50,000 miles, so I think you've been unlucky.

And yes, you do look a complete muppet, pedalling to no effect. I was going downhill, toward a T-junction on to a larger road, and kept whirring away, looking down at the chain trying to figure it out.

I've had chains break, which can be nasty, and the bolts shear on my chainwheel, which is very rare but very, very embarrassing on a one in six hill.

 

[snailracer]

Freewheels should last ages. Did you accidentally get water in it when washing the bike?

 

[accountantpete]

I don't think wear will be an issue -more like gunge in the pawls.

 

[Edwards80]

Thanks folks - The chap at Decathlon did look surprised and said they very rarely fail. Gunge on the pawls was his assumption too - I'm getting a new chain/Cassette fitted whilst he is at it, the winter riding plus my getting to grips with proper maintenance probably have a lot to do with it.

Doing a 1 day bike maintenance course in a couple of weeks so I hopefully won't feel so useless next time I look like I'm in a Benny Hill bike race on a busy road.