A conversation I had recently prompted me to write this article – I hope you find it valuable and helps you save money on bike maintenance. Replace your bicycle chain before it destroys your drivetrain.
Is your bicycle chain worn out?
Bicycle chains are made up of a few parts – pins, rollers, inner plates and outer plates. The pitch of bicycle chains (the distance between chain pins) is 1/2 inch. As the chain wears out it gets longer. This is due to the holes in which the pins are inserted in the inner plates, getting bigger.
No, the chain itself can’t “stretch”.
Once the chain has become 1% longer than when it was new, it’s properly worn out. When the chain gets longer, the pitch of the chain changes and this causes irreparable damage to the cogs in the cassette and the chainrings.
Replace the chain once it has reached 0.75%.
Use a simple chain measuring tool, also known as a chain-checker.
Your chainrings and cassette should last at least 3 chains, if not 5, IF you’re good at replacing the chain when it starts to wear. If you let the chain run past 1% you’ll most likely have to replace the chain rings and cassette as the new chain will slip over the teeth of worn cassettes and chainrings.
Top tip: Buy and rotate 3 new chains.
- Install chain new chain number 1 and ride it for 300km
- Remove chain 1 and install chain number 2, ride for 300km
- Remove chain 2 and install chain number 3, ride for 300km
- Repeat steps 1-3 over and over until each chain is at 0.75%.
Your cassette and chainrings will last 3 times longer! (You’re welcome)
