How do you change a chain on a bike?

Asked by: Max Monaco

How to replace a bike chain in eight steps

1. Remove the old chain. First, jettison the old chain. …
2. Clean the cassette. Now is a good time to clean and inspect your chainrings and cassette. …
3. Thread the new chain. …
4. Work out the correct length. …
5. Cut to size. …
6. Insert the pin. …
7. Push the pin home. …
8. All done.

Can you replace a bike chain yourself?

To replace your bike chain, you’ll need the following tools: A chain wear checker. A chain removal tool (Or a pair or quick link pliers) And a new bike chain.

Can you replace a bike chain without a tool?

While a bike chain removal tool is designed specifically for this purpose, it is possible to remove the chain from your bike without any specialized tools. You will need other tools such as needle nose pliers and a hammer to remove the chain.

What tools do I need to replace a bike chain?

In order to replace your chain you will need either Master Link Pliers like our MLP-1.2 for chains with quick links, or a chain tool like our CT-3.2 for chains with connecting rivets, as well as chain lube for lubricating connecting rivets.

How do you remove a chain from a bike?

If you have a Shimano chain use a chain braking tool to push a pin partway out of the lower section of chain until you can separate the links.

Do all bicycle chains have a master link?

Not all bikes have these links. They are most likely to be found on BMX bikes, single speed bikes or three-speed town bikes with internal gears. The more sprockets a bicycle has on its rear cassette, the narrower the chain must be and therefore the less room there is for this extra-wide master link.

How do you separate a bike chain without a tool?

You can bridge the chain across two solid things and then you take yourself a punch put it on top of one of these rivets here or whatever these things are called. And try to hammer.

How do you remove a chain link without a tool?

In order to shorten the link without a chain tool, you need an alternative tool like a hammer, pliers or thin nail. They will assist you in pushing the pin easily. You can position the chain over a socket, and hit it with a hammer. Then, you can now pass the bolt all throughout the open holes.

How do you make a bike chain tool?

You can use either an old spoke or if you don't have that around one of these brass colored coat hangers from the dry cleaners. Go ahead and cut yourself about a four-inch four and a half inch.

How do I remove master link without tools?

The next step is to take a set of needle nose pliers or really any pliers that are long enough will do. And you want to get it across the quick link and squeeze like from here to here.

How do you take off a bike chain without a master link?

If you have a standard chain with no master link: Seat the chain in the chain tool, with the pin of the chain tool aligned with a pin in the chain. Turn the handle of the chain tool until you push the pin out far enough that you can break the chain.

How do I know what bike chain to buy?

When selecting a chain, the first consideration is the number of rear sprockets. The rear cog sets have been made with 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 sprockets. As the number of cogs on the rear hub increases, the spacing between cogs tends to be reduced.

How do I know if my chain is worn without the tool?

Another ballpark method for checking chain wear is by measuring it with a ruler. Pick a rivet and line it up at the zero mark. Count 24 more rivets and your last rivet should be at the 12″ mark of your ruler. If it is off by more than 1/16″ your chain is stretched to the point of replacement.

How much is a new bike chain?

A bike chain costs anywhere from $10 to $90 depending on the brand, quality, and type of bike you’re buying it for. Basic, cheaper bikes that need a simple chain will be closer to $10. Higher quality chains that are durable and made for top notch road bikes will cost $60 to $90.

What is the best chain wear tool?

Park Tool currently offers three chain wear checking tools. The new CC-4 is certainly the best of the bunch, but I also like the CC-3.2 (for non-SRAM chains). Birzman Chain Checker in use. The Park Tool CC-2 is a common sight in pro workshops.

How long do bike chains last?

So, how long do bike chains last? In general, a good chain will last 2,000 to 3,000 miles or 3 to 4 years. Chains on mountain bikes and electric bikes will get worn out faster. Many factors can influence chain life, such as conditions, speed, weight, and stress.

Can I use wd40 on my bike chain?

WD-40 is a great bike chain lube water based lubricant and will not only lubricate the chain well, but will also keep it rust and corrosion free. It also minimizes the accumulation of dirt which reduces the wear and tear of the chain.

How do I know my bike chain size?

Add the multiplied chainstay length, the divided number of teeth for the chainring and rear sprocket, and add 1 (or 2.5 cm). The result is the ideal chain length for your bike. For example, you’d add 32.5, 13, 7 and 1 to get 53.5. The length of the chain should be 53.5 inches or 135.89 cm.

What causes bike chain to break?

Chains, like anything else on your bike, can be damaged if it gets hit hard enough. While not as common, chains can break if they are involved in a rock strike or other impact. Impact damage to chains can be more difficult to repair than if the chain breaks due to wear.

How much does it cost to fix a broken bike chain?

Service & Repair

Can a broken bike chain Be Fixed?

A broken bicycle chain will render your bike useless but can be repaired on the road, at least sufficiently to allow you to ride home. You will need a bicycle chain-tool which comes as part of most multi-tools, as well as a spare quick-link.

How often do bike chains break?

about every 2,000 to 3,000 miles

Most mechanics agree that you should replace your chain about every 2,000 to 3,000 miles, depending on your riding style. Many Tour De France riders wear out two or even three chains on their primary bike over the course of the three-week race.

Are gold bike chains better?

Are gold bike chains better? There is no evidence that a gold chain gives you better performance or increased durability than the same chain in the standard silver/metallic finish.

When should bike chain be replaced?

The number most commonly agreed on for a worn chain is one percent elongation between links. In reality though, you want to replace the chain before this point. So therefore anything past 12, 1/16 inches (0.5 percent) would be the time to replace a chain.