Should I use an already master-linked chain or add a masterlink to a plain chain?

Asked by: Art Butler

Is it OK to have 2 master links on a chain?

More than one master link should be fine. The only issue I can see with this practice is having a few links of unworn chain inserted into a worn one which might cause problems – not a problem in your specific case as the chain is almost brand new.

Can you add a master link to a chain?

To install a master link on a bike chain you need to remove a pin from the chain using a chain breaker tool and then install the new master link in place of the old removed outer plates. Apply force when connected on both sides to properly lock it in place.

Can you reuse master link chain?

SRAM’s 10 and 11-speed master links are called PowerLocks and are not to be reused. According to SRAM, the ridge that joins the two plates of the PowerLock together can be damaged when unlocking it, increasing the risk of failure if reused.

Can you use a Masterlink on a Shimano chain?

You can use a SRAM, KMC, or Connex on a Shimano chain just fine, just match the speed of chain with the connector (ie 9 speed chain, 9 speed connector).

Can I add links to a chain?

Yes, you can add links to a bike chain , but you need to be careful that you have the right tools ( Chain Tool/Master Link Pliers) and correct methods. To check if your chain is undersized, shift onto the largest chainring and the largest cog.

Can you add links to motorcycle chain?

Yes, you can use two master links on a chain. There’s no physical reason that it won’t work. A chain tool will help. You will need to add or remove links two at a time; you connect a master link to another master link because master links are all exterior (outside) plate links.

Can you use more than one master link on a motorcycle chain?

When chains break, they most often break at the master link. By adding a second master link, you have two “weakest links” instead of one. That being said, master links are designed for motorcycle chains, and you already have one on the chain, so it’s not like they are guaranteed to fail.

Does every motorcycle chain 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.

Can I use KMC missing link on Shimano chain?

Yes. I’ve used SRAM and KMC missing links on 9- and 10-speed Shimano chains for years.

How many times can you use a Powerlink?

“Now I’ve upgraded my steel and titanium Independent Fabrication Club Racers to SRAM eTap and 11-speed drivetrains with Red22 chains. According to SRAM, the PowerLock can be used just once — for initial installation.

Is Shimano master link reusable?

But the link isn’t reusable, remember, so you probably won’t to go whipping it off any time soon. It is compatible with all 11-speed Shimano chains according to the Japanese company and will include two pairs in each pack.

Are KMC master links reusable?

No problems so far. 10 speed KMC links are reusable, 11 speed non. Pinch the side plates together (inwards) with your fingers and then open them with the tool (whilst still pinching).

What happens if my chain is too short?

If the chain is too short, this shift is difficult to make and the derailleur cage is stretched out and almost parallel to the chainstay. If the chain is really short, then you might not even be able to shift into the largest cog.

Can you get links added to a gold chain?

In order to extend thick chains such as curb chains or cuban chains, the jeweler may have to custom create new links and assemble them with the existing piece. They can do this by creating a 3D design based on the existing link, and 3D print out a wax mold for casting.

How many links can you remove from a bike chain?

Quote from video: Похожие запросы

How do you connect two bike chains together?

Quote from video: Put the links into the opposing ends of the chain. And bring them together link them together using the large slotted holes to join correctly the goal is to pull the link apart.

How do you extend a bike chain?

Quote from video: Make sure you don't draw out the pin all the way out and you have enough on the inside of the link here. So you can snap the chain legs back together.

How many links should my bike chain have?

116 links

Bicycle drive chain length



A new bicycle chain usually comes with 116 links. This is long enough for the biggest chainrings and for most distances of rear wheel from front chainrings. So for optimal length a new chain is usually shortened from the 116 links that come in the box.

How do I know if my bike chain is too long?

Do a simple check on your bike by shifting the chain to the big chainring and the biggest cassette cog; then, push on the end of the derailleur cage (pushing forward) to see how much it will move forward. If it moves just a little, then you’re good. If it moves a lot, then you’ve got too much chain.