Finally got to use my chain breaker! IT WORKS!!!!

That is awesome! I feel like I should start carrying a multi-tool with a chain breaker on it during my commutes, even though my commuter has a belt instead of a chain. I ran upon someone the other day that had broken their chain and I was without a tool to assist them. I did point them in the direction of the nearest bike shop (which was only a half mile away), so hopefully they were able to get it fixed up so they could get home.

Oh darn… I guess that means I get to shop for a new bike tool!

I found out the easy way that it’s a really good idea to carry one and know how to use it. I was way back in Fountainhead by myself when my chain broke and I was in for a long walk, but two guys came by and not only offered me their tool, but when they saw I didn’t know how to do it, they actually fixed it for me. Needless to say, the shame caused me to get a tool and learn to use it.

I think a mini chain tool from Park works better than the little ones on multitools, btw, but they’re better than nothing. The small Park tool (CT-5) will still fit in a saddle bag along with a tube and a multitool.

I have two multi tools with chain breakers on them. One is a Crank Brothers and the other is a Hero Kit.

The Crank Brothers tool works okay in a pinch on the side of a trail. But it can be really difficult to get enough leverage to pop a pin out. The Hero Kit works a bit better, IMO, since the “handle” on the chain breaker is longer (it also doubles as a spoke wrench).

Since I will get another one for my commuter (I SUCK at remembering to move tools from one bike/bag to another), any additional recommendations for one with a chain breaker that works well in the field?

@Jason 138184 wrote:

I carry it only to break the chain in my winter setup (bidon style carrier) along with a quicklink.

(THREADHIJACK) Do you mean you carry your tools in your water bottle cage? I’ve been looking for something like that, but haven’t been satisfied with any container I’ve found online yet. I’d be interested to know what you’re using. (/THREADHIJACK)