hub protector, shmub protector?

**KarlHungus** · 10-12-2004, 12:17 AM

OK, stupid question...
My hub protector (the plastic thing between the cassette and spokes) is loose and rattles way too much. So, i'm thinking i might take it off... But, then i'm thinking "what if the chain comes off on that side and gets jammed in the spokes"? I KNOW this has happened to all of you so... What'd YOU do?
New one? Remove it completely? I'm torn.

**Arty50** · 10-12-2004, 01:00 AM

Having a hub protector is one step shy of having tassles on your handlebars.

**KarlHungus** · 10-12-2004, 01:53 AM

yes! thank you, glad to hear someone that doesn't fear the chain hitting the spokes. I'm doin it. it's coming off.

**Oarhead** · 10-12-2004, 11:10 AM

Three points:

1) The first thing that a person should do when they buy a bike is to remove the hub protector (is that what it really is?) so that you don't get beaten up and lose your lunch money.

2) If you set up your derailleur properly then your chain should not go into the spokes over the top of the cassette unless there is a big thump forcing it in there.

3) If these are mavic wheels, be aware that removing the hub protector voids the warranty. Of course this is a moot point because apparently if you are over 180lbs then that voids the warranty too (or maybe not, maybe it voids campagnolo warranty). Either way it doesn't matter, see point #1.

**jayfrizzo** · 10-12-2004, 11:56 AM

Originally Posted by Oarhead

Three points:

2) If you set up your derailleur properly then your chain should not go into the spokes over the top of the cassette unless there is a big thump forcing it in there.

Yeah, and it's a good thing there are no big thumps encountered while mountain biking.

Years ago my chain dove into my spokes while riding, bent the piss out of my derailer hanger and broke 2 spokes. Though, the thump could have bent the hanger and caused the dive, too. Either way, my AS-X is gonna be dorkin' to the max. Come to think of it, I'll probably add some reflectors, too.

**Oarhead** · 10-12-2004, 02:19 PM

Originally Posted by jayfrizzo

Years ago my chain dove into my spokes while riding, bent the piss out of my derailer hanger and broke 2 spokes. Though, the thump could have bent the hanger and caused the dive, too. Either way, my AS-X is gonna be dorkin' to the max. Come to think of it, I'll probably add some reflectors, too.

I kinda doubt that the plastic ring would have done much to prevent this. I could be wrong though. Either way, I have never kept the damn thing on, it collects dirt, makes noise and generally pisses me off.