HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR BIKE CHAIN?

Everything on the channel!

Axes, small rollers, plates, these are the main components of a chain. The two parallel plates form what we call a link. On a chain, we can find the male link, a link made up of two inner plates and two rollers, and a female link made up of two outer plates and two axes.

A chain can also be composed exclusively of half-links, both male and female, which are then made up of two plates, a roller and an axle. This type of half-link chain is reserved for "fixies"And"Single speed".

For a channel, we also speak of “not”. This is the distance between the two axes which connect the links (whether male or female). A space which is generally half an inch or 12,7 mm.

The dimensions of a bicycle chain

If the chains are physically similar, for technical-commercial reasons, manufacturers may give them slightly different dimensions or shapes, in order to reserve the exclusivity of the sale on a type of transmission, as is often the case on 10 and 11 speed transmissions.

In terms of width, we can always stick to the standards. It is determined according to 4 points. First, the number of speeds. The pitch next, then the width of the roll. And finally the length of the axis.

Which chain for which performance?

The performance differs from one bicycle chain to another. Thus, a bicycle chain can be very efficient and achieve an efficiency of 98.6% provided it operates in a clean environment. However, the performance of a chain can really come close to these figures if it is well maintained against dust, mud or even humidity. So remember to regularly lubricate your bike chain. This simple action allows you to increase your yield by 30%.

What width?

Bicycle chains are not the same width depending on the number of speeds (or more precisely, sprockets), the width at the connecting pins is given at 7,1 mm for 6/7 chains /8 speeds, 6,5 mm for 9 speed chains and 5,85 mm for 10 speed chains. This poses quite a few problems for the bicycle traveler, car The more recent 9 and especially 10 speed chains are still difficult to find in certain regions of the world.

It's difficult, however, to escape the 10 gears, unless you opt for an entry-level transmission, but therefore unsuitable for long distances. One solution is to opt for a Rohloff transmission, which adapts very well to 6/7/8 speed chains, and even 9 speeds, which somewhat compensates for the specificity of the equipment requested par this hub.

What lifespan?

The lifespan of a chain is difficult to determine, itar it depends a lot on the conditions of the trip, a chain wears out much more quickly off-road and on slopes. We can give an idea of ​​7 to 8 km, but it is preferable to check the wear of your chain from time to time.

A chain will need to be changed when its elongation exceeds 1%. This can be measured with a wear indicator, or "manually" by pulling the chain at the sprockets. A worn chain is very loose, it lifts and reveals a good part of the tooth, whereas a new chain hardly lifts at all. The cassette and crankset wear out much faster with a worn chain, these components normally have much longer lifespans, of the order of 20 to 30 km.

What is the quick coupler?

Also called quick link or connecting link, thequick hitch is an ingenious system for connecting two male links of a bicycle chain.

A quick release comes in the form of a female bicycle link, made up of two exterior plates. Each of them has an opening and an axis (or rivet).

The bicycle chain quick release offers multiple advantages. Its ease and speed of installation make it an essential ally for all cyclists!

Far from being an accessory, this little instrument allows you to separate the chain in two in the blink of an eye. A particularly practical quick operation for maintaining and cleaning the chain, but also in the event of a mechanical problem. The chain of your bicycle is a fragile component subjected to severe tests! Between wear and hesitant gear changes, it can happen that it breaks in the middle of the exit, when you have no chain tool on hand. The trick is to keep a quick release in your bike bag to replace the damaged link. You can repair the chain in just a few minutes and continue your cycling adventure with complete peace of mind and safety.

While it is ideal for troubleshooting, the quick release also represents an interesting solution when installing a new bicycle chain. This will notably avoid premature weakening of the chain due to the numerous dismantlings inherent in maintenance operations.

Take good care of your chain

Over time, your bike's chain can rust. To do this, it is necessary to clean it and treat the rusty parts of the chain. Then lubricate it with suitable lubricant once the chain is well cleaned and dry.

There are three main steps to proper maintenance of a bicycle transmission: cleaning, lubrication and adjustment.

Preferably, these operations are carried out regularly, at least twice a year, and in this order.

Cleaning your bike's chain and sprockets will extend the life of your chain. This simple operation only takes a few minutes, if you use the right ones. bicycle maintenance products – there are good biodegradable and environmentally friendly degreasers.

Once the chain and gears are clean and dry, the lubricant is used to prevent metal-on-metal friction, which would also wear out the parts while causing loud noises. ©pleasant. For good grease the bike chain, all you need is a few drops of lubricant on the internal side of the chain. Then shift the gears to distribute the lubricant on the gears. Also remember to lubricate the cables from time to time.

Adjusting the rear derailleur requires a bit of skill, but it's quite simple if you follow the video tutorial et written. Adjusting the front derailleur is even easier (written tutorial et audiovisual media).

Remember to regularly check the wear of the chain with the wear monitor.

FINDEZ OUR BIKE SPARE PARTS ON 50FACTORY.COM