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People start cycling for various reasons like physical fitness, transportation, competitive engagement or outdoor recreation. However, regardless of why you started cycling in the first place, you should do everything you can to become thoroughly acquainted with the world of cycling. Cyclers become professionals because they are willing to learn the game’s details and the different equipment used regularly. The most important equipment for a cycler is their bicycle. As a cycler, you should make sure that every part for your bike is well-placed and perfect for use.
The bicycle chain is an essential part of the bicycle. It is designed to transfer power from the pedals to the drive wheel of your bicycle, and this is what makes motion possible. When your bike chain is not correctly sized, this can lead to some unforeseen issues that will render your bike unusable after a while. If the chain is too long, this can lead to chain dropping, and you would have to stop cycling until you rectify that problem. If the chain is too short, there will be too much pressure on the drive train, which will inevitably damage it. This article has outlined steps you can take to calculate your bicycle chain length and essential tips on bicycle chains. Enjoy!
How to know the correct chain length for your bicycle
If your bike chain is due for a change, you need to know the correct chain length. However, you might not be able to get the exact measurement because chains get longer as they wear. By following these steps, you can know your bike chain’s correct length and change it comfortably.
Get a compatible bike chain
A standard bicycle chain usually comes with 116 links. This usually makes it long enough to fit the average bicycle. However, you might have to remove a few links to make it suitable for your drivetrain. If you want optimum performance, then work with the bike manufacturers. This means that you buy your bike chains and drivetrains from the same company. That way, you can be sure they are uniquely designed to work together.
Identify the kind of chain on your bicycle
Identifying the kind of chain currently on your bicycle is vital if you want to remove it without damage. There are two significant types of bicycle chains; the master link chain and connecting rivet chains. Once you have found the master link chain, it can be undone with a master link plier. Removing the connecting rivet chain is a little more complicated. If the chain is worn out and you don’t have the time to search for rivets, you can cut it off with your chain tool.
Measure your new chain to fit the current one
Once you have undone your old chain, place it beside your new chain and measure the length. However, it is essential to note that worn-out chains are often longer than new chains. You need to count the old chain’s links and make sure they tally with the new chain. That way, you can be sure it will fit your drivetrain perfectly.
Essential tips on bicycle chains
Most cyclers are excellent riders, but they don’t always take the time to study the different parts of their bike. The bicycle chain is a very important part of the bicycle, and the following tips will help you understand it better.
Cleaning and regular lubrication
If you want your bicycle to move smoothly, you cannot avoid cleaning and lubricating your bike chain. Cleaning your bicycle chain keeps it in optimum form. There is no particular method of cleaning your bicycle chain. Just make sure that you get through every link, and all parts of the chain are well-oiled. When you are done with this, wipe away any excess lubricant and leave it to dry overnight.
Always carry a chain link
When you are on the road, your bicycle chain might break, or you might meet another cycler with the same problem. This can be a very uncomfortable situation if you are not prepared. You would have to wait for a car to help you carry the bike home. However, if your bike chain cuts and you are with a chain link, you can quickly fix your bicycle and ride it straight home. This is a quick fix, and it requires a chain tool if it is to work. The chain tool helps you cut away the broken link before attaching the chain link.
Engage in high cadence riding
When you are riding your bike, you must apply pressure and pick up the speed. Riding at a fast pace is more efficient, and it allows you to cover more ground, exercise harder and enjoy yourself better. Even more important than all these is that faster peddling is necessary for the bike chain’s durability. When you ride in more rigid gears, it puts more pressure on the chain, which will inevitably shorten its lifespan.
Change your bike chain periodically
If you ask any experienced cycler or bike technician, they will tell you that you have to change your bike chain eventually. If you don’t ride your bike regularly, you can use it for up to 8,000 miles, and the chain will still look good. However, the appropriate number of miles you should cover before you change your chain is 3,000 miles.
Conclusion
When it comes to equipment, cycling is a lot like golf because you have to get and manage your equipment. When you buy a bicycle, you have to always do your best to maintain it and keep it in good shape. This not only allows you to avoid the extra cost that comes from replacing or repairing the bicycle; it also helps you enjoy your rides and perform better on racing routes. This article explains one of the essential parts of a bike; the bicycle chain. If you are hoping to change your bicycle chain soon, then you can follow the instructions above to achieve this, or you can take it to a technician (if you have the time and money. We have also listed helpful tips that will help keep your bike chain in excellent condition. Cheers!
