When i went to change out my rear tire i pulled off the sprocket and noticed that some of the rubber between the sprocket deal and rim were torn in half. how big of a problem is this. is this something that i can let slide? Also both tires have been balanced out but when i let go of the bars i still get a moderate shake in them. any answers. thanks

 

the shake you might want to check you wheel bearing mine were bad and it caused a shake on my bike

 

correct me if I'm wrong, but that's sounds like part of your cush drive is falling apart. That rubber cushions and holds together the sprocket to the wheel itself. (along with the bolts obviously) That's on the back. As stated above, have your wheel bearings checked out, they could be wearing down, hence some play in the handlebars. Try moving the wheel itself back and fourth while holding the bars still, if you can feel it move side to side, get those bearings replaced.

hope that helps!

 

Thanks, i'll check the bearings today but does anyone have a word on those cushings? can i leave them like they are or are they going to cause a problem.

 

I would have those cushions replaced a.s.a.p. but you could probably throw them back in for a little bit to get you by, just take it easy with it.