A bike chain is a vital part of any bicycle. It’s what allows the pedals to turn the wheel and power your wheels forward. Chains are also an important component of derailleurs, which make it possible for you to easily change gears while riding. Luckily, with a few tools and some know-how, most bike chains can be fixed at home!
The following post will teach you how to fix a bike chain with ease!
Materials:
-A bike chain tool
-A chain whip
-A cassette removal tool
-A degreaser
Step 1: Clean your chain. Before doing anything else, it’s important to clean your chain. This can be done with a degreaser and a brush. Be sure to get all the dirt and grease off the chain, as this will make the repair process much easier.
Step 2: Determine if your chain is broken. The easiest way to do this is to try moving one of the links on the chain. If it moves freely, your chain is not broken. If it doesn’t move, or if it’s difficult to move, then your chain is most likely broken.
Step 3: Use the bike chain tool to break the chain. If your chain is broken, you’ll need to use the bike chain tool to break it into two pieces. This can be a bit tricky, so be sure to read the instructions that come with your particular tool carefully.
Step 4: Separate the links. Once the chain has been broken, you’ll need to separate the individual links. This can be done with a chain whip and a cassette removal tool. Attach one end of your chain whip to one side of a link on the chain, then place the cassette removal tool onto the other end of the chain whip. Apply pressure downwards until it clicks, signifying that there is now a link separating from the chain. Repeat this process for each individual link in your chain until all links are separated.
Step 5: Clean your old sprockets (the part that inserts into your hub). Dirt and grease buildup on these parts will cause them to corrode quickly, so be sure they’re clean before you reassemble your bike! If these parts are beyond saving, be sure to replace them.
Step 6: Apply a thin layer of chain lube to the new sprocket (the part that inserts into your hub). This will help it move more smoothly without wearing down too quickly.
Step 7: Reattach the links. To do this, simply put two links back together and secure them with your bike chain tool by following the same steps as before. Make sure each link is securely attached and doesn’t come loose when you try to move it!
Step 8: Put your bike back together! Once you’ve finished reattaching all of your links, you can put everything back in place on your bike. Be aware that when you a broken drivetrain, the derailleurs will need to be readjusted. Consult your bike’s owners manual for more information on how to do this.
And that’s it! You’ve successfully repaired your bike chain! Now get out there and ride!
If you have any questions, be sure to ask a cycling expert at your local bike shop. They’ll be more than happy to help!
Now that you know how to fix a bike chain, the only thing left to do is get out there and ride! Be aware that when you have a broken drivetrain, the derailleurs will need to be readjusted. Consult your bike’s owners manual for more information on how to do this. Happy cycling!