Measuring and Installing a Mountain Bike Chain

This video explains the process for installing a new chain. It explains how to measure the chain to the correct length, and how to install a master link.

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• chain
• replace
• bike
• install
• MTB
• SRAM
• KMC
• Shimano
• master
• link
• removal
• installation
• bicycle
• repair
• mountain
• length

[TheRickeMovies]

but when you´re on the biggest sprockets ist it to short when it has to go trough the tensioner?

[ONE10Sports]

You should never be on the largest chainrng and the largest sprocket at the same time. this is called crossing the chain, and adds undue stress to the chain.

[sahilcc7]

I took my bike to the bike shop to break the chain (I don't have a chain tool). I took the chain off when I got home and followed your steps. The chain still has one link extra than the 'Total distance around the largest cog and chainring +2 links +masterlink.' . Is it worth it to buy a chain tool to break it? It seems a bit loose when in gear 3x1.

[ONE10Sports]

If it's only one link larger, then that's as good as it gets. If you take out one more link, your masterlink won't work.

If i were you I'd buy a chaoinbreak tool- because it's handy to have one. but no, you don't need to take out another link.

[sahilcc7]

Hey, what is the music playing in the background in all your videos?

[ONE10Sports]

@sahilcc7,

Music from SmartSound inc. It's royalty free music we created for our videos.

[ONE10Sports]

Your comment would be true if you were to connect the chain using a pin and chain break tool. However, the video was demonstrating how to install a chain using a master link, or "power link", in which case, two inner links are needed since the master link takes the place of an outer link.

If you prefer to install a chain using a pin and chain break, then yes, you would need to add one more link.

[omumaro]

you forgot to say...dont forget to clean the pedal gears, casette and the derailler.

[gosser66]

Thanks for sharing this info. Very helpful as others have said. It's always easiest to simply size your new chain to match the chain being replaced, but knowing the reason behind the sizing is like knowing the math behind the process, which always answers the question of "why".

[Karrot989]

really helpful, but don't forget to lube it up =P

[leyuzzzz]

Awesome video!!! You helped me so much!!

[ONE10Sports]

It's really a matter of opinion. I can't say that one is better than another. if you're using Shimano derailluers, then I would suggest staying with the Shinamo chains. Personally, I love the SRAM 9 speeds. I've run the SRAM 971 9-speed chains for years, and have never had any issues. But in the end, it really comes down to preference.