Why do cassettes "click" as they age?

[E38Ross]

Well.... I think it's the cassette? Had a new chain and cassette fitted a couple of months ago and when free-wheeling it's silent, but now (around 1500 miles later) there is a clicking noise relative to wheel speed.

Every bike I've ever had has always done this, just curious as to why?

[gazza285]

It's the grease inside moving off the freewheel pawls, so they are no longer cushioned as they hit the ratchet gear, hence the click.

[E38Ross]

gazza285 said:

It's the grease inside moving off the freewheel pawls, so they are no longer cushioned as they hit the ratchet gear, hence the click.

Is it something that should be re-greased?

Thanks

[Jimbo.]

E38Ross said:

Is it something that should be re-greased?

Thanks

Not really. Least not at this moment in time.

[nammynake]

Try a Hope free hub - sounds like a plumbers toolbox from day 1. I love it!

[megaphone]

nammynake said:

Try a Hope free hub - sounds like a plumbers toolbox from day 1. I love it!

Yep! I don't need a bell on my bike, when I approach walkers I just freewheel for a bit, always gets their attention.

[IroningMan]

gazza285 said:

It's the grease inside moving off the freewheel pawls, so they are no longer cushioned as they hit the ratchet gear, hence the click.

Not under power, though, surely?

[Fluffsri]

As already stated its the grease moving away. If you do decide to relube it to make it quieter, dont put loads of grease in as it will free wheel permently.....I was young with no idea!