What size chain do I need for my mountain bike?

If your bike is equipped with the derailleur, you need a 3/32″ or 11/128″ chain. If you have a single-speed or internally geared bike, you need either 1/8″ or 3/32″. You should get the correct size, but if it is not possible, you can get the 1/8″ because it has limited compatibility with the 3/32″ sprocket.

What size chain do I need for my bike?

Add the multiplied chainstay length, the divided number of teeth for the chainring and rear sprocket, and add 1 (or 2.5 cm). The result is the ideal chain length for your bike. For example, you’d add 32.5, 13, 7 and 1 to get 53.5. The length of the chain should be 53.5 inches or 135.89 cm.

How do I choose a mountain bike chain?

When selecting a chain, the first consideration is the number of rear sprockets. The rear cog sets have been made with 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 sprockets. As the number of cogs on the rear hub increases, the spacing between cogs tends to be reduced.

How do I know my chain size?

To measure the chain size, if you have just the sprocket, use calipers to measure between the teeth. Measure from center to center of where the chain roller would set between the teeth that will give you the pitch. Once you know the pitch you can determine what chain size you would need.

How often should I change my bike chain?

The 2,000-Mile Rule. To avoid this accelerated wear of your cassette and chainrings, a general rule of thumb is to replace your bike’s chain every 2,000 miles. Mind you, this is just a starting point. No two chains will wear at exactly the same rate because no two riders treat their chains the same.

Is there a difference between road and mountain bike chains?

Condensed Answer: A road bike chain can be used on a mountain bike as long as it’s long enough and matches the number of speeds on the cassette/freewheel. In general, the differences between road and MTB chains are either non-existent or too small to impede the performance of a recreational cyclist.

Are 6 7 8 speed chains the same?

5, 6, 7 and 8 speed chains Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo all use the same chain with 8 speeds. Chain for 7 speeds is a bit wider – 7.3 mm, while a 6 speed one is substantially wider – 7.8 mm. Going further narrower, like a 10, or 11 speed chain on an 8 speed cassette can and often does work.

How long does a MTB chain last?

A typical mountain bike chain will last 750 miles of single track riding. It’s not easy to gauge exactly how long a chain will last, but there are ways to prolong the life of the chain.

How do you size a 12 speed chain?

Here’s the easy way to set the chain length:

1. Keep the bike on the ground to prevent the rear wheel from spinning.
2. Start wrapping the end of the new chain at the 9 o’clock position on the largest cog of the cassette.
3. Wrap the new chain around your largest chainring on your crank (For 1x setups it’s your only chainring).