The SRAM PC-1170 [paid link] chain is a high-performance component designed for smooth shifting and consistent power transfer. However, cyclists occasionally experience a rough feeling during pedaling, which can impact the overall riding experience. If your SRAM PC-1170 [paid link] chain feels rough, it’s essential to understand the potential causes and solutions for this issue. This guide will walk you through why the chain may feel rough and provide step-by-step instructions on how to correct it.

Common Causes of a Rough-Sounding or Rough-Feeling Chain

A rough-feeling SRAM PC-1170 chain can stem from several factors related to the installation, maintenance, or compatibility. Here are the primary causes:

1. Improper Chain Length

If the chain is too long or too short, it can lead to irregular contact with the drivetrain components, causing uneven tension and a rough pedaling sensation. An overly long chain may slap against the derailleur, while a too-short chain could cause skipping.

2. Incorrect Chain Installation

Installing the chain incorrectly can cause it to rub against the derailleur cage, chainrings, or cassette, leading to a rough feel. Poor installation can also result in improper chainring engagement, causing uneven power transfer.

3. Dirty or Dry Chain

A lack of proper lubrication or the accumulation of dirt and grime on the chain can significantly increase friction, making the chain feel rough. Cleaning and lubricating the chain is essential to reduce wear and enhance performance.

4. Worn-out Chain

A worn-out SRAM PC-1170 chain can contribute to roughness in shifting and pedaling. If the chain has stretched over time, it may not mesh smoothly with the cogs, causing skipping or roughness during shifts.

5. Misaligned Derailleur or B-Screw

If the derailleur is misaligned or the B-screw is improperly adjusted, the chain may not sit in the optimal position across the cassette, causing friction that results in a rough feeling while pedaling.

Steps to Fix a Rough-Feeling SRAM PC-1170 Chain

If you’re experiencing roughness in your SRAM PC-1170 chain, here’s a step-by-step guide to fix it:

1. Check the Chain Length

Ensure that your chain is the correct length for your bike’s drivetrain. Too long or too short a chain can lead to uneven power transfer. Here’s how to check and adjust the length:

• Shift to the smallest chainring and cog.
• Determine if the chain is slack or overly tight.
• If the chain is too long, remove any excess links. If it’s too short, you may need to replace it with a new chain.

Adjusting the chain length correctly can alleviate tension issues, ensuring smooth operation.

2. Inspect and Correct Chain Installation

Improper installation can lead to poor engagement with the chainrings or cassette. Follow these steps to inspect the installation:

• Ensure the chain is threaded properly through the derailleur and around the chainrings.
• Check for any binding or rubbing of the chain on the derailleur cage, chainrings, or cassette.
• Confirm that the chain is properly oriented and connected with the correct chain pins.

If the installation is incorrect, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper installation.

3. Clean and Lubricate the Chain

If your chain feels rough, cleaning and lubrication can significantly reduce friction. Here’s how to clean and lubricate your SRAM PC-1170 chain:

• Clean the chain: Use a degreaser to remove dirt, grime, and old lubricant. You can do this by using a chain cleaning tool or by wiping the chain with a rag soaked in degreaser.
• Lubricate the chain: After cleaning, apply a high-quality lubricant designed for road bike chains. Let the lubricant soak into the chain and wipe off any excess with a clean rag.

Regular cleaning and lubrication should be a part of your routine maintenance to ensure a smooth ride.

4. Check for Chain Wear

A worn-out chain can cause rough shifting and pedaling. Use a chain checker tool to measure the wear and check if the SRAM PC-1170 chain has exceeded its recommended limit. If the chain is worn, it should be replaced to avoid damaging your cassette or chainrings.

• Use a chain wear tool to check for wear indicators.
• If the tool shows that the chain has stretched beyond the recommended tolerance (usually around 0.5% for road chains), replace it with a new one.

Replacing a worn chain before it causes further damage can help maintain smooth shifting performance.

5. Adjust the Derailleur and B-Screw

If the derailleur or B-screw is misaligned, it can cause a rough feel when shifting or pedaling. Here’s how to adjust it:

• Check the alignment of the derailleur to ensure it’s straight and positioned correctly.
• Adjust the B-screw so that the derailleur has proper clearance from the cassette. The ideal gap is typically around 5mm.
• Fine-tune the derailleur hanger if needed to ensure that it is parallel with the cassette.

Proper derailleur alignment ensures smooth shifting and reduces friction in the drivetrain.

When to Replace the Chain

If the rough feeling persists despite cleaning, lubrication, and adjustments, it could indicate that the chain is beyond repair. Replacing the chain is the best course of action if:

• The chain is excessively worn or stretched.
• You’ve replaced the cassette and chainrings, and the chain no longer meshes smoothly.
• The chain continues to cause skipping or rough shifting even after adjustments.

Replacing the chain will restore smoothness and optimize your bike’s drivetrain performance.

Conclusion

A rough-feeling SRAM PC-1170 chain is often caused by issues with chain length, installation, lubrication, wear, or derailleur alignment. By following the steps outlined above, you can quickly identify and address the root cause of the problem. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and timely chain replacement, will ensure that your SRAM PC-1170 chain continues to perform optimally and provides a smooth, enjoyable riding experience.