Replacing A Bike Chain Is This Easy!, by GCN Tech on YouTube. 7 min 49 s.
- Video length
- 7 min 49 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Check the old chain for wear with a chain checker or ruler. If it is stretched past the limit for your drivetrain, replace it before it wears the cassette and chainrings.
Buy a chain that matches your bike's speed and brand. Count the cogs on the cassette and check the chain is the right width for that number of speeds.
Gather a chain tool, quick link pliers, a new quick link and lube. Work in a clean, well-lit spot with the bike in a stand or stable on the ground.
Find the quick link on the old chain and squeeze it with the pliers to release it. If there is no quick link, push a pin out with the chain tool and remove the chain.
Lay the new chain beside the old one and match the length. Count the links, then remove the excess with the chain tool by pushing a pin fully out.
Thread the new chain through the rear derailleur and around the cassette and front chainring. Follow the correct path through the derailleur cage.
Join the ends with the quick link. Push the link together and pull the chain to seat it, or use the quick link pliers to snap it closed.
Spin the cranks and shift through the gears to check the chain runs smoothly. Adjust the rear derailleur if the chain skips or rubs.
Wipe the new chain with a rag and add a few drops of lube. Wipe off the excess and check the quick link is fully seated before you ride.
Tips and common mistakes
Never reuse a pin you have pushed out; fit a fresh quick link or pin instead.
Make sure the quick link clicks fully closed, or the chain can come apart while riding.
Keep the chain path correct through the derailleur cage or shifting will be poor.
Use the chain tool slowly so you do not bend the side plates.
Questions
Do I need a chain tool if my chain has a quick link?
You still need a chain tool to shorten the new chain to the right length. Quick link pliers help release and close the link.
How do I know the new chain is the right length?
Match it against the old chain before you remove it, or use the large chainring to largest sprocket method and add two links.
Can I reuse the old quick link?
Most quick links are single use. Fit a new one so the chain stays secure.
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.
