---
title: "Gates CDN vs CDX rear sprocket wear"
language: en
topics: ["Amsterdam", "Durable", "Freedom", "bike", "environment", "health", "lifestyle", "minimal", "mobility", "office", "review", "sport", "work"]
full_article_url: https://willem.com/en/2019-02-27_one-year-on-the-ultimate-commuter-bike/
---
# Gates CDN vs CDX rear sprocket wear

*The weakest part of the budget CDN line, measured over 6000KM.*

> On my commuter bike the Gates CDN rear sprocket showed serious wear after just 1800KM. I replaced it with the CDX model, which was still fine after 6000KM when I reviewed it in 2019.

My Sensa Cintura came with the budget CDN line of the Gates Carbon Drive, and after 1800KM the original rear sprocket was showing serious wear. I was disappointed by that quality and by Sensa's choice for the CDN line.
The fix was simple: I replaced only the rear sprocket with the better CDX model. After 6000KM of commuting, including a snowy winter that would have easily damaged a traditional chain and derailleur group set, the CDX sprocket was fine.
The rest of the CDN system held up well. The belt and the front sprocket are very durable; the rear sprocket is the weakest part. Combined with a Shimano Alfine gear hub the drive was ready for many more kilometres.