How to Replace a Chain on a Bike - Sizing & Installation, by Park Tool on YouTube. 8 min 50 s.
- Video length
- 8 min 50 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Shift the chain onto the smallest chainring and smallest rear cog. This slackens the chain and makes removal and routing easier.
Find the master link or the rivet you plan to break. If the chain has a master link, squeeze it with master link pliers to unclip it.
If there is no master link, seat the old chain in the chain tool and push the rivet out until the chain separates. Keep the tool straight.
Pull the old chain off the derailleur pulleys and chainrings. Thread a length of new chain through the same path to check routing.
Route the new chain over the top of the rear cassette, through the derailleur cage and around both pulley wheels, then over the front chainring.
Size the chain by running it around the largest front chainring and largest rear cog, bypassing the derailleur. Add two links, counting the inner and outer plates as one link.
Mark the cut point and remove the excess chain with the chain tool. Push the rivet fully out and keep the tool aligned with the pin.
Join the ends with a master link, or push a connecting rivet through with the chain tool until it seats flush on both sides.
For Campagnolo 11-speed chains, peen the rivet with a peening anvil tool so the ends flare and hold. Do not skip this step.
Spin the cranks and shift through the gears to check the chain runs smoothly. Wipe off excess lube and check the master link is fully closed.
Tips and common mistakes
Count the links on your old chain before removing it so you have a reference length.
Never reuse a rivet you pushed out, it will not hold safely.
Check chain wear with a chain checker and replace before the cassette wears out too.
Keep the chain tool pin straight or you can bend the tool and damage the chain.
Questions
How do I know which chain fits my bike?
Match the number of speeds on your cassette, such as 9, 10 or 11 speed. A chain for the wrong speed count will shift poorly or not fit.
Can I reuse the old master link?
Most master links are single use. Fit a new one with the chain, and make sure the link is fully clicked into place.
How much chain do I cut off?
Size around the largest chainring and largest cog plus two links, then cut the excess. Check the derailleur cage angle 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.
