Subject: RE: Why is my bike doing this? Does it skip in the same position every time? Or just make random skipping noise?
If it's in the same position, you are probably right that there might be a tight link. Easy fix, though it can be tricky to find it sometimes. Put the chain in the smallest gear in the back so it's making the most dramatic bends, and run it backwards VERY slowly. Listen for any little variation of the standard noise. If you can isolate the area, then sort of force the chain sideways in both directions (sideways being the direction that the chain is not meant to move ) to stretch it out. Work it out in several links. Rinse and repeat as needed.
If the noise is more random, you are probably looking at a deraileur adjustment. Again, not a big deal but it's pretty easy to get it all out of whack if you don't know the drill. I'd take it back to the shop and have them take a look at it.
I don't put much faith in the whole "change your cassette when you change your chain" mentality. I'm a former collegiate racer and CAT3 USCF racer. That's not meant to boast in any way, I only say it because it equates to a LOT of miles on my bikes when I was younger. I lived in the SouthWest so there really was no off season. 12,000 miles a year was not uncommon at all. That said, I've never changed a cassette in my life unless it is to change gearing for a hill climb or the like. Of course bike shops will tell you to do so but they have a vested interest in you doing so. A $20 chain, or a $200 rear end drive train? Sure, that makes sense to them. I've also worked at many bike shops in my lifetime, as a mechanic, and I honestly feel it's a bunch of bunk. Now, I've got no desire to stir up any kind of controversy. If replacing the whole back end works for folks, go for it. But I would seriously doubt that it's the source of your noise.
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