TUTORIAL - How to change your bike chain ? I Decathlon, by Decathlon EN on YouTube. 5 min 7 s.
- Video length
- 5 min 7 s
- Time to do it
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Check the old chain for wear first. Use a chain wear gauge or measure 12 links against a ruler. If it is stretched past the limit, replace it.
Count the gears on your rear cassette and match that number to the new chain. A 9-speed bike needs a 9-speed chain.
Clean the chain and drivetrain with a rag and degreaser so you can see the pins and quick link clearly.
If your chain has a quick link, squeeze the link plates together and slide the two halves apart. Otherwise push a pin out with a chain tool.
Thread the new chain through the rear derailleur and around the cassette and front chainring, following the same path as the old one.
Join the chain with a quick link or push a new pin in with the chain tool until it seats flush on both sides.
Check the chain runs smoothly by turning the pedals. Shift through the gears and look for stiff links or chain jumps.
Trim any excess chain to the correct length and wipe off the packing grease before your first ride.
Tips and common mistakes
Never reuse a pin you pushed out, because it will not hold safely.
Keep your fingers clear of the chainring teeth when turning the pedals.
A chain that skips after fitting is often too long or has a stiff link.
Replace the chain before it wears the cassette, which costs much more.
Questions
How do I know when my bike chain needs replacing?
Use a chain wear gauge or measure 12 links. If the chain is stretched past the wear limit for your speed, fit a new one.
Can I change a chain without a chain tool?
Only if your chain has a quick link. You still need quick link pliers or strong fingers to open it, and a chain tool for most other chains.
Do I need to shorten a new chain?
Often yes. Compare it to the old chain or follow the sizing method for your bike, then remove extra links before joining.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
