There are few components on your bike that work as hard as your chain does. We recommend using both a chain cleaner and lubricant for the best results - both of which can be found at Halfords.Support us! BikeRumor may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. We stock a great range of bike maintenance products, including bike chain lube, bike grease and brake oil to ensure all your bikes moving parts are in tip-top condition.Ĭleaning the chain on your bike doesn’t take very long and is relatively inexpensive, but the impact it has on performance is huge. Regularly cleaning and lubing your bike chain is the best way to prolong its life. Using a set of pliers, break off this part of the pin.
Using the removal too, wind through the rest of the pin and ensure the pointy end of the pin is completely through the chain. If you’re not using a quick link, line both the inner and outer links and push the pointy end of the pin through the chain. Next slot together both ends of the chain and insert the connector links by hand Locate the sharp end of the pin that came with your new chain. When you have the right length, using the chain tool split the chain. Make sure you are left with two inner links, one at either end. If you’re adding in a quick link, remember to remove one extra link to make space for a new link. You’re looking for the longest possible length which still generates some movement in the derailleur arm. With the chain placed around the smallest sprocket and chainring, pull both ends to meet below the chainstay. Next, loop it over the rear cassette and round the upper jockey wheel, before carefully threading it through the cage and around the lower wheel. Shop Chain Cleaner Threading the new chainįocusing on the smallest sprocket and chainring, thread the new chain through the front derailleur and turn the cranks, leaving a few inches of chain hanging loose. Once you’ve done this, spray some bike chain cleaner and give both components a good scrub. This is a great time to inspect your chainrings and cassette, paying close attention to ensure all the teeth are aligned and symmetrical. To remove the chain, place the pliers between the two links around the quick link and squeeze together, slowly feed the chain out of the componentry. To completely remove, slowly feed the chain out of the componentry Quick link chainĪ cleaner quick link chain will be easier to remove, so we recommend cleaning your chain before you start. As it pushes through the links of the chain, release it and the chain will break apart. Place the chain into the lugs of the removal tool and slowly wind the lever. This gives us the least amount of tension on the chain. Anything on or above 1% and the cassette or freewheel will need replacing too.īefore you begin, make sure the chain is sitting at the lowest gear at the front and the highest gear at the rear. If the wear is above 0.75%, the chain needs replacing. A chain removal tool (Or a pair or quick link pliers)Ī chain wear checker has the measurements 0.75% and 1%.To replace your bike chain, you’ll need the following tools: It is vital that you replace your chain before it becomes overly worn, as this can cause serious damage to the expensive chainrings and cassette. Your bikes chain is one of many moving components that should be regularly checked and replaced if worn.ĭespite being made from hardened steel, the collection of links, pins and rollers can suffer intense wear and tear, especially if you cycle during winter when the roads become gritty.