how do i determine correct chain length

nporternz

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i got a new chain and threw the old one out (stupidly) before i could count links!!!

how do i get chain length correct?
 
Flip...that's complicated.

Put it on big-big, then thread round the chain (don't run it through the mech yet.) Add two links, then refit through the mech and join.

At least that's what the Shimano handbook says. I think that they mean a link is an outer and inner link pair, not just a one of each.
 
hamster":19fauo5p said:
Flip...that's complicated.

Put it on big-big, then thread round the chain (don't run it through the mech yet.) Add two links, then refit through the mech and join.

At least that's what the Shimano handbook says. I think that they mean a link is an outer and inner link pair, not just a one of each.

So the Shimano handbook says "put it on big-big"? :lol:
 
Put the chain on the biggest front ring and the smallest rear cog. Fully thread the chain through the mechs etc. Pull tight until both the jockey wheels are inline 90 degrees from the floor. This the correct position for the chain/rear mech, remove links as necessary.
 
hamster":2dhlb8bq said:
Flip...that's complicated.

Put it on big-big, then thread round the chain (don't run it through the mech yet.) Add two links, then refit through the mech and join.

At least that's what the Shimano handbook says. I think that they mean a link is an outer and inner link pair, not just a one of each.

Thats what I always do, except i consider a link to be between two pins. Works fine for me, although I'm good about not selecting big-big gears when riding.
 
D_XZ":teu4wo61 said:
hamster":teu4wo61 said:
Flip...that's complicated.
Put it on big-big, then thread round the chain (don't run it through the mech yet.) Add two links, then refit through the mech and join.
At least that's what the Shimano handbook says. I think that they mean a link is an outer and inner link pair, not just a one of each.
Thats what I always do, except i consider a link to be between two pins. Works fine for me, although I'm good about not selecting big-big gears when riding.
The still-great Sheldon Brown says "The typical 57 link chain used on the average multispeed bike has 570 parts, more than the whole rest of the bicycle put together. There are 114 outer plates, 114 inner plates, 114 rollers, 114 rivets, and 114 bushings."

So Hamster is supported by Sheldon Brown, so he must be right.
 
Chain

I always put the chain on small and small then pull the chain until the lower length of chain is no longer rubbing on the top jockey wheel on the rear mech. Once you've measured it simply pull the chain off the granny ring, take out the appropriate number of links and away you go.Thats how i was taught to do it by my mate in the LBS. Doesn't sound anything like the way you guys are doing it though.....am i wrong? its worked alright for me for 15 years or so
 
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