How to Fit a Bike Chain
CHECKLIST FOR FITTING A BIKE CHAIN
Here's a list of bike tools you will need when fitting a bike chain:
- Chain tool. Some brands like Shimano need a specific tool - read the manufacturer's guidelines or ask in store for details
- Pliers (to break off the end of a Shimano pin)
- Bike lube
- Cloth or rags
- Bike workstand. This is optional but makes the job a lot easier
DETERMINE THE RIGHT LENGTH
New bike chains come with extra links to allow for bikes with bigger sprockets and chain-rings. To determine the right length for your bike when fitting a bike chain:
- Thread the chain as tightly as possible around the largest chain-ring and sprocket, and through the rear gear mechanism. This should give you an indication of how long the chain needs to be.
- For SRAM gear mechanisms - Add two extra links to this length. If your bike has a large number of gears you may need to add up to four links.
- For Shimano gear mechanisms - With the bike in it's highest gear (biggest chainring and smallest sprocket) the rear derailleur jockey wheel cage should be pointing straight down to the ground.
If the chain fitted to your bike is the right length, it's also possible to measure your new chain alongside this. In all instances, make sure that any surplus links are removed.
FITTING A BIKE CHAIN USING A MASTER LINK
To get rid of your old chain, use the 'connector links' or 'master links' to open the chain. If not, you will have to use a chain tool to remove the old chain before fitting your new one.
Most new chains come with a 'master link' that you can use to join the two ends of the chain together once it's in place on the bike. If not, you should purchase a master link - this will make fitting a bike chain easier and is recommended for people without much experience of fitting bike parts.
FITTING A BIKE CHAIN USING A CHAIN TOOL
If you don't have a master link, you can use a chain tool to fit the new chain. However this can be tricky - only attempt it if you're confident and follow the guidelines below:
After winding the new chain around the chain-rings, sprockets and through the gear mechanism you should:
- Place the link that you want to be at the end of the chain in the chain tool (one end must be an inner link and the other an outer link).
- Use the tool to push one of the chain link pins (or 'rivets') so it is sticking out of the side plate on the other side. Caution - do not push the rivet too far, it must stay in the far side plate and not be pushed right through.
- Slip the two links you want to join together, flip the chain tool over to the other side, and use it to push the pin back in. Turn the tool's crank until the pin seals the links together.
- Ensure that there is no pin sticking out on either side of the chain.
- Flex the chain to ensure that the link rotates freely. If not, give the chain some lateral flexing to free any stiff links.
- Apply an appropriate lubricant generously to the chain and wipe off the excess.
After fitting a bike chain, it's important to check it is running smoothly before riding - to do this wind the pedals and change gears a few times while the bike is on its workstand. If the chain sags it may be too long and a link may need removing.
FITTING A SHIMANO BIKE CHAIN
Shimano bike chains require different fitting to standard bike chains as they have a special pin, which should be indicated in the manufacturer's instructions.
This special pin should be pushed through the chain link using a Shimano chain tool, until a groove appears. The protruding part of the pin can then be broken off - please ask in-store for advice or refer to manufacturer's guidelines if in doubt.
ADVICE ON FITTING A BIKE CHAIN
Staff at your local Halfords will be happy to offer advice on fitting a bike chain. They can also fit chains and other bike parts for a small cost. Contact your local store to find out more about our fitting and maintenance services.
