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A bicycle chain enables the cyclist to transfer power from the bicycle pedals, through the drive train, to the bicycle wheels. Most chains are made from plain carbon or alloy steel, but some are chrome-plated or stainless steel to slow the rusting process. All bikes that are sold in shops and stores come with their pre-installed chains. In general, a typical bicycle chain lasts you ride for about 2,000 miles or even longer, depending on the make and quality, as well as your use and maintenance.

Buying the Right Bicycle Chain

When it does come to the point where your bicycle chain gives up on you and breaks apart, you will need to buy a replacement chain. Alternatively, you can also buy a chain to serve as a backup in case you are worried about your original chain breaking while you are out on a ride.

It is highly recommended that you consult a professional to help you choose the right chain for your bike and have it installed. Just bring your bike to any reputable bike shop and ask around, surely, they would know something about the right chain-gear-derailleur combination that requires your bike to run smoothly.

If you have faith in your mechanical skills and would rather try your hands on DIY repairs and save yourself a few hundred dollars, then you may want to replace the chains yourself. This is a very handy skill to know since there is a chance that you may break your bike chain while you are out riding in the middle of nowhere with no mechanic to help you out. In this case, you will need specialized chain repair tools; they are small enough to keep in your bag. Here are some bicycle chain buying considerations:

Bicycle Chain Length

Getting the right length of bike chains is necessary, as doing so could result in very annoying and bothersome problems while riding.

When your bike chain is too long, you will have trouble riding in small gear combinations. For one, you will feel your bike chain sagging while you are pedaling, which in turn gives you lesser power with every pedal. The worst-case scenario is that the chain may fall off while riding.

On the other hand, when the bike chain is too short, shifting into large gear combinations can put too much strain on the chain, causing it to break apart when riding, and can result in disastrous consequences.

Bicycle Chain Width

Width is another consideration that must be taken when buying the right bike chain for your bike. Bike chains normally come in two different widths - 3.175 mm (1/8") and 2.38 mm (3/32") sizes. The 3.175 mm size is generally for BMX bikes, three-speed bicycles, and bikes that have simple transmissions without any need to shift speed, while the 2.38 mm size (also known as derailleur chains) serves as the standard size for many multi-speed bicycles.

Connecting the Chains

There are three different types of chain connection to choose from, each requiring different replacement techniques.

• Chain Joined With A Special Replacement Pin - In place of a regular stock pin, a special chain is inserted. This is typically found in modern models such as the Campagnolo and Shimano chains.
• Chain Joined With A Special Connecting Link - Sometimes referred to as the 'master' link, the bicycle chain is joined by a special link that features two outer plates. It also comes with noticeably protruding pins inserted on the chain rollers which are aligned to fit them together and snapped in place.
• Chain Joined By Any Pin - This is the traditional method of joining chains, using any pin that is pushed just far enough to flex the chain to each end.

Sprockets

When choosing a bicycle chain, the front and rear sprockets are common to all bicycle manufacturers. However, the tooth shape presents a difference, especially for the 1/2 x 3/32 type of bicycle chains. A manufacturer designs their tooth shapes to allow better shifting, which is why extra care and caution is required when changing sprockets.

Check Catalog

Manufacturers typically offer different selection systems for the derailleur transmission. This includes the sprockets and chain. Make sure to check the catalog for information.

Chain Performance

The performance of the bicycle chain is largely influenced by wear and tear. Make sure to choose a chain that comes with coated pins to increase the wear resistance. When buying replacement chains, you need to make sure it is connected carefully, otherwise, they will break during operation.

Technical Trend

When choosing a bicycle chain, you may want to take into account the latest design enhancements of bicycle chains, which are developed to feature the following:

• Lightweight
• Attractive appearance
• Resistant to weather and rust
• Non-staining
• Low Noise engagement

Buying a Bicycle Chain on eBay

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Bicycle Chain Maintenance

Most bicycle parts will do just well with minimal maintenance and care, this is however not the case when it comes to the bicycle chain.

This is one of the single most important parts that regularly move and keeping it clean and lubricated means that it will work better and last longer.

The fact that this part comes in contact with dirt, sand, and mud among other debris means that it is in danger of becoming rigid and damaged if not carefully looked after.

The main loss when it comes to riding with a rarely cleaned bicycle chain is the fact that you risk damaging the rear cassette as well as the derailleurs which are very costly to repair. Conversely, maintaining the chain or overhauling it are two inexpensive options that can be used to extend the life of the bicycle chain. When carrying out bicycle chain maintenance you will find that it is also possible to measure chain stretch in a bid to know when you need to have it replaced.

Cleaning the Bicycle Chain

The frequency of cleaning your bicycle chain should be determined by the level of dirt and debris on the chain from time to time. Sometimes a simple wipe and lubrication are enough while the above procedure should be followed when the dirt seems excessive. Cleaning your bicycle chain follows a simple procedure and only takes a short while. You don’t even have to remove the chain from the bike as some people may think. For this task, you will need:

• Rags
• Bucket
• Degreasing agent or hot water and soap
• Gloves if you do not want any direct contact with the oily chain
• A coarse scrubber

Use a scrubber to scrub off the debris on the chain and then rinse it off with water. You can then use a dry rag to wipe away excess water and dry the chain off; once this is done you can then reapply the lubricant. Take a look at these sample chain cleaners:

Lubricating Your Bike Chain

Like cleaning a chain, there is much debate surrounding the proper way to lubricate your bicycle chain. But here is my advice to you - never let such esoteric debates distract you from the pleasure of cycling!

When to Lubricate

In general, you should lubricate your chain every couple of weeks. If you are riding in more severe conditions, or need to wash your chain more frequently, then you will also want to lubricate your chain more frequently.

How to lubricate

To lubricate your chain, do not simply squirt lubricant all over the place with reckless abandon. Remember: excess lubricant will attract excess dirt - only use what you need! One drop of lubricant per link is sufficient. After applying the lubricant, run, your chain around for several revolutions, and then let your chain sit for ten minutes. This will allow the lubricant to soak into exactly those critical parts of your chain. Afterward, using a clean rag, wipe off any excess lubricant. Just note:

• Never lubricate a dirty chain
• Never over-lubricate your chain

Choosing the Right Lubricant

Finding the right lubricant for your bike can be confusing. Bicycle shops are usually stocked with lighter synthetic lubricants, Teflon-based lubricants, heavier oils, greases, and waxes. The lubricant you will want to choose is based on the conditions in which you normally ride.

For someone in a drier climate, you might want to consider Teflon-based dry lubricants. As the name implies, these lubricants have a dry finish, and so attract less dirt. I use Finish Line Ceramic Wax for my summer road bike. For people riding in wetter climates, you will want to consider a wet lubricant. These go on wet and stay wet - providing maximum water repellency. I usually mountain bike in wet or muddy conditions, so I use Finish Line Cross Country. Here are some recommended bicycle chain lubricants:

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Additional Information

For more information about bicycle chains and chain lubricant you can visit:

• Bicycle chain lub.
• Bike Tech Articles.

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