Everything You Need to Know About Mountain Bike Chains
What mountain bike chain should you acquire when it's time to replace your bike's chain, and how do you install and take care of it after purchasing the appropriate one?
As there are several bike-chain manufacturers, differing types of drivetrains, and variable numbers of gears on mountain bikes, selecting the perfect chain for your bike could seem to be a minefield. Fortunately, it isn't as complex as it may initially appear.
This guide to mountain bike chains will help you make the proper decision when buying and explain how to change the chain and take care of it.
When Should You Repair A Mountain Bike Chain?
Sometimes it is evident that a chain needs changing—bash it against a rock and bend a link out of shape, or shatter the chain altogether, and it is time for a new one. While removing the damaged portion and refitting the chain is doable, investing in a new chain is advisable.
However, mountain e-bike chains and drive systems wear down and will require replacement after significant usage.
There are several straightforward techniques to check when to update a mountain bike chain. If your gears start sliding and jumping constantly, this might suggest a chain on its way out. You may rapidly test a chain without any tools by stretching the lowest piece between the bottom of the rear derailleur and the front chainring side-to-side. It might be worn if the links feel loose and rattly and the chain bends much.
Specific instruments are available to measure the wear on a chain by measuring the distance between links. These are reasonably cheap to acquire, but it is usually advisable to stop into a local bike store and ask for an evaluation since you seldom need them.
Which Mountain E-Bike Chain Should You Buy?
Most current mountain bikes utilize a 1X ('one-by) drive system, which means they use only one chainring at the front and a wide variety of gears on the back cassette.
Some manufacturers have many different price-point possibilities that come with fancy names, but picking the correct chain is straightforward. The most crucial thing is to choose a chain for the number of gears on your bike.
Many mountain bikes are 10-, 11- or 12-speed, and, when purchasing a chain, they will be prominently branded appropriately. Determine the number of gears or speeds your bike has and choose the equivalent chain.
What Is The Best Way To Get Rid Of An Old Chain?
Chain tools that force the connecting pins out of broken chains. Some chains, however, do not need any equipment to be removed — a 'fast link' may be severed by hand or using non-specific tools.
Splitting quick links is simple – you press the pin into the large hole and then unclip the chain – but it isn't always straightforward. A pair of pliers may be used to assist in pushing the two ends of the quick link together. Close the pliers to help move the quick link into its open position by inserting the nose of the pliers into the chain in the same manner as a chainring tooth would when the chain is on it.
How Do You Find The Proper Length For Your Chain?
While quick links are helpful for maintenance, they do not remove the requirement for tools when replacing a chain. All chains arrive too long to be suited to different-sized bikes and gearing combinations, so you'll still need to use a chain tool to shorten them out of the box.
The most straightforward approach to determining the length of the new chain is to compare it to the one you are replacing.
If the previous chain broke and you lost it on the path, you'll need to attach the new one around the front chainring. Pull the two ends together between the derailleur and the bottom of the chainring after threading it through the derailleur.
The derailleur should be tensioned at the right length without being locked out, so remove just the size of chain links required. Avoid going too short—it will be challenging to add connections afterward.
After you've reinstalled the chain, make sure it's not too short when the bike's rear suspension (if it has one) is completely compressed, and the space between the chainring and the rear cassette is at its longest. If it is, the suspension will be unable to compress entirely and will eventually break.
How Do You Keep Your Chain Going?
The greatest thing you can do to get the most out of a mountain bike chain is to maintain it correctly in the first place. Aside from more excellent durability, a clean, well-oiled chain may improve drivetrain performance by resulting in quieter, smoother pedaling, gear changes, and decreased friction.
Chain-cleaning tools are available to assist in removing dirt, old oil, and grit from the chain by passing it through a succession of brushes and degreaser solutions.
Once your chain is clean and glossy, don't forget to lubricate it. High-quality chain oil is affordable, and several alternatives are available, including biodegradable green oils.
Important Things About Mountain Bike Chains
Mountain bike chains may seem the same, but this is not the case. The quality of mountain bike chains varies, altering how your power is transmitted. The most delicate mountain bike chains make your journey more enjoyable.
Mountain bike chains or better grades are more durable and available in various colors. This is useful for folks who desire a specific look for their bike. Low-cost mountain bike chains do not last as long. They are also more audible while shifting gears.
Material
No matter what bike you ride, all bike chains are alloy steel. This is because it is a low-cost and long-lasting substance. On the other hand, higher-end chains are nickel-plated, making them more corrosion-resistant.
Length
When purchasing mountain bike chains, be sure that the one you choose fits. The gears of your bike determine the chain length. For example, if your bike has 11 or 12 gears, you'll need a longer chain than if it just has 10.
The gearing on your bike will be determined by the kind of bike you have and the riding you want to do. Downhill riders' gears will be relatively tiny, allowing them to cycle quicker on descents. Alternatively, if you spend a lot of time on terrain that requires a lot of climbing, you will have massive gears to assist you in climbing those hills. More giant gears also enable you to cycle through rugged terrain.
Mountain Bike Chain Selection
Mountain bike chains are available for a variety of riding disciplines. Choosing one will depend on your bike, much like the length of the chain.
You must examine the cassette's gears. This is because the distance between the gears will vary. The distance between gears on a 9-speed cassette, for example, is more significant than on a 12-speed cassette. As a result, the thickness of your new chain must be just right.
In general, chains and cassettes from various manufacturers may be used.
Maintenance
When Should You Change Your Mountain Bike Chains?
Mountain bike chains are tough and long-lasting, but they don't endure forever. They are constantly under stress and grinding against another metal surface when you think about it. This, along with the dirt and grit lodged in them, makes it incredible that they endure as long.
Mountain bike chains will also stretch with use. You will notice this if your chain slides over the gears instead of meshing with them smoothly. If the teeth on your chain have worn down, this is a hint that you should replace it and your cassette.
Tools
When you replace your chain, you must remove the previous one. A chain tool is required for this. These are available from most internet retailers. Getting a multi-tool with an integrated chain tool, on the other hand, is the ideal option. Because you won't need to break your chain very frequently, you may as well acquire a tool that can perform numerous chores and fit in your bag.
Alternatively, your chain may include a QuickLink. This will enable you to break the chain without any tools. They can, however, be stiff, and you may need pliers. You may also try this ingenious bike hack.
Lubrication
Lubricating mountain bike chains is critical. A properly lubricated chain will run more smoothly and with less resistance. It will also remain clean for a more extended period.
There are many varieties of chain lubricant, but the two most common are wet and dry lube. The circumstances will dictate the people you travel with.
Wet lube may be used in any situation, although it is intended for use in wet weather or during winter riding. This kind is resistant to water. As a result, it will not be washed away by rain or splashed through a puddle.
Use dry lube only when the situation calls for it. It is used as a solvent, evaporating and leaving the chain's lubricant. Using this requires applying the lubricant more often, but cleaning isn't as vital since dirt won't attach to it.
Cleaning
Cleaning your chain is critical since dirt can deteriorate your drive train. To clean your chain, leaving it on the bike is preferable. This is because you should only remove your chain as necessary. Taking it off frequently may induce weakness, and it is not required.
The best method I've discovered is to use a chain cleaner. It is efficient and does not take long to complete. Purchase yours from Chainreaction by clicking on the picture below.
Final Words
Choosing mountain bike chains isn't difficult; all you need is a little knowledge. To summarize:
- Determine the length required.
- Understand the thickness
- Spend a little extra on an excellent one.
- Obtain the necessary equipment.
- Maintain cleanliness.
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