Universal answer for is this worn out?

[byegad]

OK.
On this and other cycling forum there is a regular flow of 'Is this worn out' questions.

In order to save time I suggest we use these questions and answers.

Question
Is it safety critical?

Answers
If yes replace it.

If no then keep on using it until it breaks.

I'm fairly certain this covers all those:-
'Is my tyre worn out?'
'Are these brake blocks worn out?'
'Will this cracked frame be safe?'
etc. etc. etc. threads.

 

[MrJamie]

I think there's parts you replace before they're completely knackered, like worn chains that would otherwise eat your cassette and chainrings

 

[byegad]

Agreed, but you can use them until they crumble or the chain skips. Whereas a bulging tyre will fail with dramatic results a skipping chain is usually only damn annoying. I fully agree the cheapest solution is to change some items early.
My point is that the back story for most of these questions is that the poster lacks the money, or will to spend the money, for less than urgent repairs.

 

[ufkacbln]

But..........

Is this the answer they all want?

How many of these are asked as "I want to upgrade, but my SO won't let me.... if you lot say it is at the end of it's life she may believe you and let me buy the new one?"