Bike 101: Chain tools, Link Repair

[Subby]

From the author of Converting to Disc Brakes, Wheel Advice, and Clipless Pedals and Shoes and Cleats…help comes an exciting plea for assistance about ***BIKE CHAINS***.

After a few recent reports of chain breakage I find myself completely worried and clueless about what to do if that happens to me. Yes, I clean my chain once a week and probably lube it every third day (overkill?) but at some point it is going to break.

What do I need to carry with me to do a quick fix? I looked at the tools on amazon but I am a little confused on whether I need a missing link or not. Also do I need a chain opener AND closer?

Finally, there are probably youtube videos on this, but a quick explanation of “What to do if CHAINBREAK” would be hugely helpful.

Thanks!

Topic

[Steve O]

@Subby 88142 wrote:

What do I need to carry with me
Thanks!

I recommend a SmarTrip card.

[Dirt]

Is this a geared bike?

If so, I usually just carry a multi-tool that has a chain tool on it. I also carry at least on quick link (of a width that matches my chain…. I’ve been caught with a 10 speed quick link to fix a 9 speed chain. That doesn’t work).

If the chain breaks on the trail, I just shorten the chain by the broken link and insert the quick link. Your chain will be shorter, which means that you must absolutely avoid using the BIG/big gear.

I know that’s not too detailed, but I can go into that more when I get home tonight.

Dirt

[mstone]

@Subby 88142 wrote:

After a few recent reports of chain breakage I find myself completely worried and clueless about what to do if that happens to me. Yes, I clean my chain once a week and probably lube it every third day (overkill?) but at some point it is going to break.

Holy moly, you must have the nicest chain ever. Do you check it for wear? I think they tend to show signs of aging before they go (or die early if defective). Anyway, you can carry a spare link and a multitool with a pin remover. What speed chain do you have? The old ones were easy to take apart and put back together, the newer ones are more finicky (basically, you can limp home then buy a new chain). http://www.pinkbike.com/news/tech-tuesday-fixing-chain-2010.html seems about right.

edit to add: having a powerlink/powerlock is the best solution, the link above shows you what to do assuming you don’t have one

[Subby]

I am good inside the beltway (best wife ever) but am more worried about rides out in the countryside where pickup is a little farther away.

[Subby]

@mstone 88151 wrote:

http://www.pinkbike.com/news/tech-tuesday-fixing-chain-2010.html

Heh – now I know what the weird looking tool on my multi tool is. That video was hugely helpful, thank you.

[rcannon100]

Quick links are small. When I was going on the Phoenix Rides, I would go through them like chicolettes, repairing worn out chains on people’s bikes. Wonderful little things.

You might also wanna carry a pair of latex gloves if you think you might have to do chain work on the trail. Again, very light and small – and something you might end up being very glad you have.

Ah always carry a small collection of tools including multitool, chain breaker, leatherman, and assorted other things. Have used them many times, frequently helping other people out.

[Author]

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