RobMobius

I keep breaking chains. I have done my homework and checked all the usual things. 1. My chain is not stretched at all. 2. Every link is lubed and clean and moving well. 3. My chain rings are not worn. 4. I have new XT bits that are working great. 5. Derailleurs and cages are all str8. I weigh 77kg but have legs like toothpicks so I rely on cadence not power so I don't think I am capable of "mashing"! My theory is that maybe I am gear shifting more than most and maybe the chain gets hung up in a change and that stresses a link. Plausible? I am certainly not aware of bad changes but I suppose there is the odd rougher shift. But I am sure everyone has these The breaks present as both sides of the outside of the link being split apart if that provides any clue to the techies out there? Help!

haha, spinnekop you are so right, its already going that way...! testing all 3 bikes is the way to go but are the bike shops happy to let you take the bike out for a ride? I haven't asked yet but none have offered. Thanks for the quick responses and please keep theme coming. I know I am unlikely to find consensus but as new comer its best to ask the veterans for their opinions I find Thanks

Hi there, I am a brand new member so this is my first post. I have very recently got into MTBing and loving it. My lady wants to join in the fun as well. We have been looking for a bike for her and have narrowed it down to 3 bikes all at a pretty similar price. 1. The Giant Talon 2. Scott scale 60 3. GT 1.0 These seem the best bang for buck. All have LX or XT components and seem pretty similar. What would you recommend, or maybe there is a bike that I am not aware of that is better? She is looking at being semi serious so we need more than a pavement special. Thanks