In terms of recording this data more accurately e.g. using Strava/GPS it seems like a good idea in theory, but in practice, does anyone do this? Any particular trends on lifespan of components that makes it more worthwhile than having a general recollection of how long components are lasting?
If you were racing at a pro level, you would want to keep track of components, although sponsors would expect you to replace stuff as soon as it started looking a bit used anyway. For normal mountain biking, you're much better to just replace stuff when it's worn out. Some people ride in nice dry climates, others in wet, muddy conditions. Some crash regularly, others rarely. I once trashed a new set of brake pads in a 5 minute descent, but generally get a year or so out of them. Sensible thing to do is frequently check anything that might kill you if it fails and just replace stuff when it wears out.
I don't do anything as sophisticated as track mileages but do keep a file on my computer for each bike to record the date I replace components. It just gives an idea of how long I can expect stuff to last and if any brands last better with my particular riding.
If you were racing at a pro level, you would want to keep track of components
you think? i'd think they probably just chuck it at the mechanics and get them to sort it out.
I just ride my bike, if something's needs replacing it gets replaced. 😄
Just use Strava to log drive train use, mostly out of interest when 11sp came out
Like Golddigger ... can't see the point.
To be meaningful stuff like drive chain would depend where I was riding and the weather and what lube.
Probably the most expensive replacement is the cassette and that seems to be completely dependent on use of 1st gear on my XT M8000... even riding through sticky muddy sand doesn't wear 1st when I don't use it... chain wear is less when I'm mainly using only higher gears... which is location dependent
Hitting a big rock isn't really miles dependent.
So my conclusion... tracking how long they last vs different places I ride and to an extend the weather at the time would be more meaningful for me.
I don't use Strava for following anyone and don't allow others to follow me, just for tracking my own rides.
All my bikes are listed securely in Strava's "my gear" section and I list any new parts fitted/changed and alter the weight if it changes (Bike weight makes a difference to your stats). I have a terrible memory and a lot of bikes so it's pretty handy for letting me see how much life I'm getting out of BBs, chains, cassettes, brake pads and tyres or when a suspension component is due a service. If a component fails it's also quick way of seeing how old it is or if it's still in warranty.
I also use each bike's notes section for suspension settings/tyre pressures.
All this info stored in one handy accessible place means more time in the bongshed less time...er... I forget.
I’m impressed that some of you have that level of commitment to recording all that data and analysing it. It must presumably mean you need consistency in the riding conditions/weather etc to get meaningful trends? Otherwise it’s the luck of the draw in terms of getting the best out of each measured component?