Cassette noises -- normal?

[Batbike]

before I go calling my LBS about this, I thought I would ask the forum ... is a cassette quietier on the way up (shift to lower gears/large cogs) than on the way down (shift to higher gears/small cogs)?!

the situtation: last week I put on a new cassette and chain and had the replaceable rear derailleur hanger checked, aligned, and bolts lock-tied to prevent slippage. The LBS did the chain and rear derailleur work. They did a quick adjustment to gears. Noticed after riding it wasn't "quite right" and put it on the stand at home, making a few more gear adjustments. Cleaned and lubed chain -- so all should be well.

problem: it shifts nicely on stand -- smooth between shifts. Very quiet when working chain UP the cassette to lower gears. When I shift to higher gears, bringing the chain down the cassette, it still shifts smoothly (not skipping, jumping, etc.) but it seems noisier in the gear -- especially middle of cassette. If I go down a few clicks and come back up a few clicks, it is definitely quietier. Never noticed this before -- normal or does something else need adjustment?!!

I know this is LONG ... thanks for any feedback!!

[bcipam]

Bat not long no problems.

Shifting should be quiet in all gears although its normal for the "sound" to be grindier if you are cross-chaining. (ie in big cog in front and trying to go to smallest in back or vice versa).

What component group? 9 or 10 speed? Shimano or Campy? Is it a matter of "trimming" when you ride?

[Batbike]

no, it is not a cross chain problem and I don't need to trim the derailleur because the noise is in middle of cassette on the down shift

system: Campy Chorus 10 spd -- new chorus cassette and record chain (ultra, not ultra narrow), with full full Chorus drivetrain.

[Veronica]

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/derailer-adjustment.html

Sounds like either 3 or 4 on this page would help you out.

My noisy cassette is always from dirt. :p

V.

[Batbike]

I rode my bike to LBS yesterday and had them look at bike. Actually, I was hoping I wouldn't have to ride to LBS, but it still wasn't shifting correctly and very loud! Anyway, it appears the problem is in my shifter or cable housing -- more than likely something in shifter broke, causing it not to sit right on cogs. If it is the cable housing, it means the cable/housing got contaminated, not allowing proper shifting. Good new! everything is fixable ... just need time for diagnosis. I will know more Monday afternoon after I pick it up.