How do I know what size chain my bike needs?

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 BMX 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.

Why did my BMX chain snap?

Chains break for a host of reasons, but most common is wear. Because the chain is stretched, the metal fatigues is more susceptible to failure. Additionally, as the chain wears the chainrings and cassette (gears in the rear) will wear out as well.

What size bike chain do I need single speed?

1/8″ chains are used exclusively for single speed setups. In addition to the other answers, I found it helpful to read that the nominal width of a chain (1/8 or 3/32) actually refers to the width of the sprocket.

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 my bike chain too short?

If the chain is too short, this shift is difficult to make and the derailleur cage is stretched out and almost parallel to the chainstay. Then, if you shift into the smallest chainring and smallest cog and if the rear derailleur pulls the chain back so far that it comes in contact with itself, the chain is too long.

What is the strongest BMX chain?

The Wipperman 1G8 is widely respected as the strongest BMX chain you can buy. Wipperman don’t just design and build BMX chains, they also develop chains for other vehicles.

Are 11 and 12 speed chains the same?

12-speed chains can operate just fine with 11-speed cassettes. The main exception are Shimano’s new 12-speed HG+ models which are heavily optimized for downshifting and thus come with custom inner plates that don’t mix well with non-Shimano 12-speed components.

How do I know if my bike is 10 or 11 speed?

Multiply the front gear number by the rear gear number to get the number of speeds. For example, if you have two front gears and five back gears, you have a 10-speed bike.

What is a good thickness for a chain?

For a clean minimal look, we recommend a 2-3mm chain. This thickness is also the perfect width for a pendant. For someone who wants their chain to stand out a bit more but doesn’t want anything too crazy, a 4-7mm chain is great.