Nederlands | English | Deutsch | Türkçe

Project Sports

Questions and answers about sports

Which master links for 1/8 inch aka BMX chains?

5 min read

Asked by: Erika Sims

Do BMX chains have master links?

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.

Are all chain master links the same?

No, they are not universal, but you can get one for your chain if you know the size.

Can you have two 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.

Are chain master links reusable?

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.

How do I find my master link?

If you have a chain with a master link: To find the master link, look for a link that looks significantly different when viewed from the side. This is where you will break the chain. The master link has a pin on one side that inserts into a notch on the other side.

What size is a bicycle chain master link?

Bike chains come in two sizes. There’s 1/8″ chain for single speeds (bikes without a derailler) and 3/16″ which is for geared bikes with a rear derailleur. In addition you can get master links for 6/7/8 speed, or 9 speed or 10 speed or 11 speed.

Can I use a different brand master link?

The type doesn’t matter. The only thing is that one type might be stronger, has a different ring type(non O-ring-O-ring-X-ring) different color. If it’s A 520 to 520 it’ll work!

What are the different types of chain links?

Links chains types

  • Cable chain cable. …
  • Round link chain. …
  • Flat link chain. …
  • Twisted curb chain. …
  • Figure of eight chain/ Infinity. …
  • Rolo/Cascade/belcher chain. …
  • Venetian link/Box chain/briolette chain/square link chain. …
  • Gourmette chain/Cuban link/ Curb.

How do you use a missing link chain?


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.

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.

How do you extend a drive chain?

Quote from video: Go ahead and put your put your chain together make sure this fits in there getting. All get your chain put it together just kind of slide it in there make sure it's about. Right.

How many links does a motorcycle chain have?

motorcycle chains count each pin as a link so for example a standard chain length for a motorcycle (street bike) is 120 links (5/8″ pitch typically) and then it can be shortened to some even length such as 118, 116, 114.

How do I know what bike chain to buy?

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.

How do I open a master link without the tool?

Quote from video: 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 I know my bike chain size?

L = 2 (C) + (F/4 + R/4 + 1) L = Length – your chain length in inches (rounded to the nearest inch). C = Chain stay – the distance between the middle of the crank to the rear axle. Measure to the closest ⅛ and convert this to decimal form.

How do you take links out of BMX chains?

Quote from video: In until the point of the of the uh. Point of the breaker there is going to touch the link that you want to remove. You see there you just wind it in till it touches.

What is a master link on a chain?

A master link or quick-release link is a roller chain accessory that allows convenient connection and disconnection of a chain without the need for a chain tool. It acts as a set of the chain’s outer plates, so joining two sets of the chain’s inner plate ends.

Is a master link weak?

A master link is not a weak link. Just be sure to install the clip so that the closed end is facing the direction of travel.

Is a half link chain stronger?

Half-link chains are heavier than full-links. There is more material used within half-link chains to support the slight bend in each link’s plate. Since metal tends to be the weakest at its bend point, the added weight and thickness is necessary to improve the durability and strength of half-link chains.

Does a half link shorten a chain?

A half link is half an inch, and removing one will shorten your chainstay 1/4 inch. A full link (actually two links) is an inch, and will equal a half inch on your chainstay if you add or remove a link. You can’t stretch your chain on purpose.

What size is a BMX chain?

BMX chain sizing



The majority of BMX chains – both traditional and half-link – are the standard 1/8” width. Narrower 3/32” chains are available for weight-shaving racers, as are more heavy-duty 3/16” chains, but for most riders the standard is fine.