Depending on the style of riding, the question of removing the chain arises either almost immediately after the start of riding, for example, in trials or downhill, or, after many kilometers of riding, when maintenance and replacement of the chain is required.

Chain removal situations

It is very important, and there may be several reasons for removing the chain:

Deep cleaning - it is recommended to remove all elements from time to time and clean them of grease and accumulated abrasive.
Damage and replacement of links.
Replacing a worn chain.
Change in length with a new combination of stars, for example, on a mountain bike.

Wear in "home conditions" is primarily determined by stretching. A stretched chain is a cause for concern, as misaligned links severely damage sprockets and can be dangerous to derailleurs.

It is quite difficult to note wear by eye, and there is an indicator to determine it - the length of 24 links:

if it is 305 mm (304.8 value for a new set), everything is in order;
306.5-307.5 mm - it's time to change;
307.5 mm - if the bike was still in use with such wear, then the entire set of sprockets is most likely damaged;
308 mm - the value of the damaged transmission.

Tension link example

It is objectively recommended to service the transmission every 500 kilometers, but this value is not fixed, since 50 kilometers over rough terrain with an abundance of sand and mud can correspond to another thousand on clean city roads.

Some people prefer to cut the chain, but the stretch is usually evenly distributed and the links can still damage sprockets that can no longer be repaired.

Important Points

In addition to conventional devices, there are models with a lock - a special link, which is slightly different in shape from the others, and allows you to open the link using reverse tension without using squeeze or other tools, the main thing is to put the lock link correctly. It is not recommended to open the links near the lock, as this will reduce the reliability of the entire mechanism.

It is very important to remember how the chain is connected to the system, cassette and switches before starting to remove it - without a little experience in mounting and dismounting it can be difficult to put it back on.

Standard withdrawal process

All guides describe the same order of work for removal. This will require, first of all, a small set of tools - without them it will be quite difficult.

Tools

wrench for removing the rear wheel;
pliers for holding segments and pins;
squeeze - a device for pressing out pins, without a lock - the most important tool in the process.

Process

Consider step by step how to remove the chain from the bike:

We clean the links from dirt - it will interfere with each subsequent step.
Take off rear wheel- step is optional, but working without it is much easier.
Squeeze out the pin (the metal cylinder that closes each link) with a squeeze.
Disconnect one link.
Remove the extreme links from the switches.

The reverse sequence is similar - put the chain in place and assemble the structure back, riveting the pin with a squeeze, and rotating it in the opposite direction.

Without tools

In the absence of squeeze, you can install everything back without it. Pliers and any strong cylinder, for example, a small hexagon, will help. By carefully clamping the cylinder, the pin can be riveted in the same way as the squeeze, it just requires a lot more attention and effort.

Models with a lock can be unhooked using a tight rope or cable. This allows you to make quick repairs literally in the field, for example, when the chain suddenly breaks on a short trip.

Removal of the lock link without tools

Conclusion

Removing a chain from a bike is very easy if you have a simple tool or basic knowledge of the process. The most important thing is to act carefully, as forceful actions with extrusion can be dangerous.

How to replace a chain on a bicycle with speeds - instruction + video

Anyone vehicle maintenance is required. Bicycles are not included in the exception. Their key element in the transmission unit is the chain. High-speed bikes are inherently more "finicky" for normal functioning. The frequency of replacement or maintenance of the chain mechanism is largely determined by the style of riding. For example, bike trial enthusiasts do this while riding. When and how does the chain change on a speed bike?

What you need to know about the types of bicycle chains?

Chains for bicycles are lockable and solid. Disconnecting the lock variation is not difficult. It is convenient to do this with an ordinary thread (wire), threading it into neighboring links (before and in front of the lock) and tightening the loop. The main thing is to avoid damage to the lock and not lose it.

Disclosure of a continuous chain is possible only with a special squeeze, although the procedure itself also cannot be classified as complex tasks:

It will be necessary to install the chain in the position of pressing-in-pressing the axle.
Tightening the screw to pull out the pin.

Axial pressing is inherent in the opposite sequence: the connection of the links and the indentation of the pin by means of a screw.

For your information . The use of squeeze is accompanied by loosening of the axis, therefore, the repetition of disengagement is the lot of another link.

What tools is important to have to replace the chain:

A wrench to remove the rear wheel.
Pliers to hold segments and pin.
Squeeze. As noted above, this device presses and presses the pins.

Chain removal procedure in standard variation - step by step instructions

Cyclists who do not have sufficient experience in such matters are advised to memorize the general scheme, reflecting the location of the chain on the system, cassette, switches. Then the procedure for its subsequent installation will not cause difficulties.

Once all the nuances are fixed in memory (or on paper), you can proceed to the next steps:

Cleaning links from mud accumulations. If this is not done, the dirt will be a significant obstacle to the next steps.
Removing the rear wheel. The absence of this detail simplifies all actions, although experienced craftsmen safely skip this stage. In fact, it does not apply to mandatory measures.
Extrusion of a pin present in all links (a metal cylinder that closes the link). This is where squeeze is applied.
Separation of one link.
Derivation of extreme links from the system of switches.

On this, the extraction of the chain (worn or requiring cleaning) can be considered complete. The procedure itself is quite easy if you have the tool and basic knowledge. The accuracy of execution and the absence of forceful actions in the process of pressing out are very important.

Step-by-step process of installing a bicycle chain in the form of instructions

With bikes that have one gear (single speeds), everything is limited to hanging the chain on the parts of the star configuration and locking or pressing the pin. The design of high-speed bikes involves some difficulties in this matter.

They can be identified as follows:

Derailleur lock on small chainrings.
Next, a chain is put on the teeth of the stars. It is important to take into account the location of the rollers involved in its tension.
Then the chain links are combined.
The chain is clamped and the axle is pressed in or the lock is closed.

On the final stage progress is checked. For this purpose, the pedals are scrolled. Incorrect installation is characterized by sagging of the installed element and difficult torsion. If this is not observed, the installation of the circuit is done according to all the rules.

In what cases, except for wear, is the chain removed:

For deep cleaning when it is necessary to remove lubricating compound and accumulated abrasive.
To replace damaged links.

How is chain wear determined?

A failed chain stretches, its links shift, damaging the sprockets, which negatively affects the switches. It is quite difficult to visually determine the degree of wear.

Let's see why the chain flies. There are two options: either you have a bent star on the system (the system is a front set of sprockets), or the speeds are poorly configured.

If you have bent star on the system, in this case, you can continue moving simply by switching to another speed at which the star is not bent. But if you use all the speeds while driving, then in the future you will have to replace a bent star. If the system is collapsible, you can only replace one damaged star. If the system is non-separable, you will have to change the entire system along with the connecting rod.

If everything is fine with your connecting rods (what is a connecting rod?), it means that the speeds are badly configured. On each of the derailleurs, both front and rear, there are adjusting bolts that do not allow the chain to go beyond extreme speeds. If they are not adjusted correctly, the chain will fly off. If the chain flies off the largest star, then you need to screw in the bolt with the L index, which means low - the easiest gear.

You need to screw in until the stars on the switch are parallel to the large star. The same on the reverse side: if your chain flies off the smallest star, you need to screw in the bolt with the H (high) index.

Screw it in until the switch is parallel to the seventh speed.

If the front of the chain drops from the small star to the frame, then tighten the low bolt.

To properly adjust the bolt labeled low, you need to set the bike to the lightest speed and screw it in until there is a gap of 1 mm between the inner derailleur ring and the chain.

If the chain falls from the big star to the connecting rod, then screw in the high bolt.

To properly adjust the high bolt, you need to set the bike to the highest speed and twist it until there is a gap of 1 mm between the chain and the outer frame of the derailleur.

These were the most common causes of chain slip. Now let's talk about her breakup.

2. Broken chain

The most common cause of a broken chain is shifting gears under load, such as when you are driving uphill. When broken, a chain link can either rivet or break. If the link is riveted, you can try to rivet it back. To do this, you will need a chain puller, so it is best to always carry one with you. If the link is broken, it is necessary to remove it and the link adjacent to it, too, and rivet the chain using the same puller.

Putting the chain back is not difficult. To do this, pull back the rear derailleur while loosening the chain and place it on the front sprocket.

Today you learned why the chain can fly off and break, as well as how to solve these two problems with your own hands.

Don't miss the next issue, stay tuned to Slenergy!

Music used in video:

JK Soul - I know this (Original Edit)

Or to replace when it's already .

How to remove a chain from a bicycle

With a lock

To remove the chain, you need to open the lock. There are several types of locks, but their opening processes are similar, for this you need to close the axis of the lock and remove the cover.

If you have problems opening the locks, you can use tools, such as special pliers to open the locks.

without lock

If the bike has a chain without a lock, then you will have to press the axle out of the chain link. Also, this process will need to be carried out in order to reduce the number of chain links when necessary.

To press out the chain axle, you need a special tool - a chain squeezer. For this operation, you can choose any link in the chain, the only condition is that it is better to use a new one when re-pressing it, since after the operation the link loosens a little.

Insert the chain link into the tool and secure with the screw. Please note that in some chain squeezes there are two seats, one place for pressing the axle (it is closer to the fixing screw), and the second place is used only for adjusting the axle. Tighten the squeeze screw carefully, thereby squeezing out the axle.

Do not push the axle all the way out if you plan to assemble a link with the same axle, otherwise it will be problematic to install it back!

The chain has been removed.

How to install a chain on a bike

Before installing the chain, you need to make sure that it will fit your bike according to. Complete with a chain, a special axle is usually sold, with a pointed end. It serves to facilitate installation, after pressing the axis, this end must be broken off with pliers. Also, the axle may already be in place if the chain is supplied without a special axle.

To install the chain, move the speed switches to small sprockets. Then thread the chain through the tensioning frame of the derailleur, do not mix up the directions, the lower roller of the chain runs on the left, and the upper one on the right.

We connect the open links, set the axis. We insert the link into the squeeze of the chain and fix it with a fixing screw. By turning the chain squeeze handle, press the axle into place, it should line up with the edges of the chain. Remove the chain from the squeeze, if necessary, break off the end of the axle.

Check that this chain link is free to bend, if it runs tight, then it is necessary to adjust the axle with a squeeze. Insert the link in this case into the second squeeze seat, then you can see both ends of the axle.

The chain is set.

When a person buys a bicycle, he must be prepared for the fact that sometime certain mechanisms will fail. An element like bicycle chain stops working quite often. And if you want to know how to install the chain in situations where it is necessary, read our article further.

Replacing a worn chain

If the chain breaks, it is not necessary to go to the workshop with the bike. You can solve this problem yourself. And here's how:

Assess the damage and make the appropriate decision. If the chain failed during cycling, don't worry too much. Just roll the bike to the side of the road, lay it on its side with the sprockets facing up. Next, inspect the place of the chain break. Most likely, the chain hangs behind the star, and you can quickly find 2 broken ends.

In a standard chain, the links are connected to each other using a special pin or cylindrical cup. It holds the inner link plates together. And if you are an experienced cyclist and carry tools with you to install the chain, then you will be able to re-tension it yourself, having previously repaired it. Remember that there are three types of chain for a bike:

a chain with special locks - it comes with special rivets with which you can repair it without having to go to the store with spare parts;
a chain with master links - one that is equipped with a link with 2 rivets connecting the ends of the chain; if this link breaks down, it will have to be replaced with a new one;
standard link chain - a typical chain that includes the most common links, each of which is easy to replace with exactly the same one if available.

Remove the chain from the bike. If you see that replacing the chain will be easier than fixing it, then simply remove it from your bike. In the event that it is completely torn, then to remove it, you just need to turn the pedals. She will not make you wait long and will simply subside. But if this does not happen, you need to work with your hands. This can be done by means of squeeze, which is easy to find in any specialized store.

How to unlink a chain with a squeeze: Position the pin of the chain against the pin of the squeeze. Next, tighten the screw of the latter, squeezing out the pin. In the event that you need the chain in the future, do not pull out the pin to the end. Do this only until you feel that you can separate the links of the chain.

After you manage to break the chain, pedal so that the chain is completely off the cassette. Remember that if you want to replace the chain, you need to count the number of links in the previous chain. And at the same time, consider the type of bike drivetrain, because it depends on the type of chain that will fit the bike.

Raise the rear wheel. This needs to be done next. New chain you need to pass through the rear derailleur. For everything to work out correctly, you need to scroll the rear wheel, raising it in advance. What for? Then, so that the whole process brings as little complexity as possible.

It will be ideal if you have a special bike rack. A pin sticking out of the wall is also suitable - you can hang a bike on it. But if you simply don’t have all this, then use improvised means. For example, some kind of box is perfect.

Thread the chain through the rear derailleur. When you understand the position of the bike, you can start installing the chain. Most modern mountain bikes are equipped with a rear derailleur, which is a spring-loaded system of mechanisms that descends below the main sprocket (rear).

Remember that the process of threading the chain is not so simple. You need to pay a lot of attention and be focused, because the right actions will lead to safety while riding. And vice versa. Therefore, carefully take the end of the chain without a pin and circle it around the lower tension roller, and then around the upper one. In the event that you did everything correctly, the chain will look like the letter S. If this did not happen, then it may well be that the chain did not go through all pairs of rollers.

It is important to know that the chain must not touch the small metal lug that may be located between the rear derailleur idlers.

Single speed bikes and those with planetary hubs do not have a rear derailleur. If your bike is like that, then you just need to pull the chain on the star and pedal.

Put the chain on the rear cassette. Mountain bikes are equipped with a rear cassette, which looks like a mechanism that includes several sprockets mounted on the rear wheel. Once you put the chain through the derailleur, don't forget to put it on the smallest sprocket in the cassette as well. After that, make sure that it goes well through the switch and lies correctly on the star. Next, lightly stretch the chain.
Thread the chain through the front derailleur. When you understand the rear derailleur, it's time to move on to the front. Most of the bikes that are produced in last years, have a special metal mechanism located in the sprocket area. It is needed in order to move the chain from one star to another. And just through this switch you will need to pass the front end of the chain. If there is a problem and the chain will not reach, push the rear wheel a little further.

Single speed bikes do not have a front derailleur, so fit the chain onto the front sprocket as described below.

Put the chain on the front sprocket. For this purpose, the smallest front sprocket is selected. After pulling the chain on it, make sure that it rests on all the teeth of the sprocket. And then pedal.
Connect the ends of the chain. This is the final step that will help you get back on your bike. Place the links to be connected in the squeeze on the stop, which is located close to the fixing pin so that they are aligned. Next, tighten the link with a screw. Make sure the pin is clamped into the link. At the same time, observe the degree of its immersion.

You can use a C-bracket to easily hold both ends of the chain side by side. If there is an opportunity to use this device, do it, because it will simplify the work. In the absence of such a tool, a bent paper clip can be used.

Replacing a Loose Chain

If the chain has not broken, but simply weakened, follow the other recommendations:

Find the place where the chain came off. It happens that the chain does not break, but simply "goes off track." You will not have to interfere very much in the whole process of its operation, however, you will need to install the chain back on the star.

If the chain loosens and comes off while riding, first get off the bike and lay it on its side with the stars up. Once you find the place where she slept, you can proceed to further steps. By the way, it will not be superfluous to look for places where the chain can simply be clamped.

Loosen the eccentric if the chain is pinched. If you have the case when the chain is simply clamped, you need to loosen the eccentric. This can be done by opening a small lever located in the center of the rear wheel. Once you have done this, unscrew the nut on the other side. These actions will help to release the chain and remove it.

Remember that the lever should not be clamped too loose or too tight. This is wrong, and in both cases leads to negative consequences. The nut must be tight enough.

Loosen the chain tension on a bike with rear derailleurs, and then tension the chain on the last sprocket. Almost all bicycles are equipped with a special spring, which is responsible for the tension of the chain when riding. Ignoring the resistance of the spring, tension the chain so that it can be put on the smallest sprocket from the front. After that, release the chain and check how well it is tensioned.

After the done actions, you can already go further. At first, the bike may ride unevenly until the chain is in the correct position.

Pull the chain over the front sprocket if you have a bike without gears. You can do this by simply turning the pedals. We have mentioned before that numerous bikes, such as single speed bikes, do not have derailleurs. And if you have such a bike, then you can simply put the chain on the rear sprocket, hook it on as many teeth as possible on the front sprocket and pedal back. With the right actions, your chain will catch on and begin to wrap around the star. After all the work done, the circuit will be able to work in normal mode.

To make pedaling easier, lift the rear wheel. Here again, a stand or something from improvised materials is useful. As a last resort, you can try to hold the wheel up or turn the bike over yourself.

Pedal carefully until you reach the desired speed. To do this, sit on your iron horse and gradually start to ride. If you have a high-speed bike, then the chain can go to the speed at which it was before the breakdown. If this does not happen, then set the speed yourself and wait until the friction of the chain has passed.

Note that the drop chain on single speed bikes is most often just loose. And if your bike is like that, then adjust the chain tension before future rides.

Don't forget to test all speeds by switching them. Wait for the moment when all unusual sounds disappear.

No. 1. There is nothing terrible and strange in the fact that the chain sometimes falls off. However, if this happens too often, then you need to turn to professionals who will tell you in detail about the problems.

No. 2. If you can buy all the important chain tensioning tools, do it! Get yourself a Phillips screwdriver, a standard wrench of the right size. All this will come in handy during breakdowns and facilitate the repair process.

No. 3. If you feel that the chain is too long and sagging, you will need to remove a few of its links. This can be done both independently and with the help of a specialist. In the absence of self-confidence and knowledge on this issue, it is better to trust the professionals.

No. 4. Any cyclist should have basic knowledge of bicycle construction. It will not be superfluous to have some repair skills. After all, all this will help not only not to go broke on repairs, but also to deal with problems at any time when it will not be possible to get to the bike workshop.

No. 5. Before fixing the chain, gather your long hair into a ponytail and tuck in your clothes to keep you comfortable.

No. 6. Remember to use gloves when repairing, if available. Hands are very easy to get dirty in grease, and washing it is not so easy. Especially if you are in the middle of the street.

No. 7. Be careful during repairs, and do not put your fingers in the chain again.