How to fit a road bike chain?

Chain assembly doesn't have to be complicated - you just need to know a few tricks.

Time : 20 min
Level : Easy
Tools : Chain drift (compatible with your chain) | Quick-release pliers (if your chain has one)

Put the chain on the smallest sprocket and the smallest chainring then disengage it from the crankset so that it's loose.
Open the chain using the chain adjuster or quick-release clamp, depending on the chain you have. Then remove it from the bike.
Use the old chain as a template to cut the new chain to the correct length. In the case of a new assembly, pass the chain over the largest chainring and sprocket without going through the derailleur, close the loop as short as possible and add 2 links (1 internal + 1 external).
Replace the chain on your transmission, following the path through the derailleur so that the engraved part of the chain is on the outside.
For a Sram chain, fit the quick-release. For a Shimano chain, rivet the chain using the pin supplied, then break off the protruding part using pliers.
Probikeshop tip: If riveting has created a hard spot, "massage" the chain to remove it.

Now that the chain is mounted, you can test the smoothness of the shifting and, if necessary, adjust the derailleur settings.

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Road - Chains

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