Thanks for all the chain info weatherby. Your rituals are certainly extensive. I never remove chains for cleaning, and don't use solvents on them. But at least our wear criteria is the same; I check with the steel rule for 12&1/8" when the Park gauge looks close to the 0.75% point. As I said, I'm usually around 4500 or 5000K miles between replacements, and replace the cassette every other chain, about 9500-10K miles on the Ultegra cassettes. .
But note that's on my old bike, with a 9sp DA triple setup. Have no idea how long the new 6800 11sp will last. I'm not too heavy on the power, but often have to climb 10-15% grades which puts a load on chains.
Agree there are bad LBS out there. I'm fortunate to have a nearby one now with a couple of ace mechanics. Still, I do most everything needed myself...bikes just don't need much maintenance anymore other than drivetrain and tires.
But note that's on my old bike, with a 9sp DA triple setup. Have no idea how long the new 6800 11sp will last. I'm not too heavy on the power, but often have to climb 10-15% grades which puts a load on chains.
Agree there are bad LBS out there. I'm fortunate to have a nearby one now with a couple of ace mechanics. Still, I do most everything needed myself...bikes just don't need much maintenance anymore other than drivetrain and tires.