A bicycle chain is an essential component of the drivetrain, transferring power from the pedals to the rear wheel. When the chain comes off, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. However, putting it back on is a relatively simple task. Here are the steps on how to put a chain back on a bike:
First, identify which side of the chain came off. If it came off the right side, you will need to place it back on the chainring on the right side of the bike. If it came off the left side, you will need to place it back on the cassette on the left side of the bike. Once you have identified which side the chain came off, you can start putting it back on. To do this, simply start by feeding the chain through the derailleur on the appropriate side. Then, pull the chain up and over the chainring or cassette. Once the chain is in place, use your hand to guide it around the rest of the drivetrain components, including the idler pulley and the tension pulley. Finally, shift the gears to ensure that the chain is properly engaged. If the chain is not properly engaged, it may come off again when you start riding. Also, make sure that the chain is properly tensioned. If the chain is too loose, it may come off when you are riding. If the chain is too tight, it may damage the drivetrain components.
Putting a chain back on a bike is a relatively simple task, but it is important to do it correctly to ensure that the chain does not come off again. By following these steps, you can quickly and easily get your bike back up and running.
Removing the Old Chain
Before beginning the process of installing a new chain, it is essential to remove the old one. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Gather necessary tools
You will need a chain tool, a rag, and a pair of gloves for this task.
2. Shift to the smallest chainring and largest cog
This will provide maximum slack in the chain, making it easier to remove.
3. Use the chain tool to break the chain
Locate the master link, which is usually marked with a different color or a connecting pin. Position the chain tool over the connecting pin and apply pressure to break it. Be careful not to damage the chain or the chain tool. If you don’t have a chain tool, you can use a hammer and a nail to carefully tap the connecting pin out.
| Chain Tool | Hammer and Nail |
|---|---|
| Easy to use and precise | Requires more skill and caution |
| Recommended for frequent chain maintenance | Suitable for occasional use |
6. Threading the Chain
With the rear derailleur in its highest gear, lift the chain onto the smallest chainring at the front and the smallest cog at the rear. You’ll need to use a bit of force to push the chain onto the cogs, but don’t worry about damaging anything as long as you’re not using excessive force.
Once the chain is on the smallest cog, begin threading it through the derailleur. Make sure the chain is routed correctly through the guide pulleys, and don’t cross the chain between the chainrings and cogs. As you thread the chain, ensure it’s not twisted or kinked and that it runs smoothly.
| Derailleur Type | Chain Routing |
|---|---|
| Front derailleur | Chain should wrap around the bottom of the front derailleur cage and over the top of the chainring. |
| Rear derailleur | Chain should pass through the upper and lower guide pulleys and over the cogs. |
Once the chain is fully threaded through the derailleur, you can shift to a higher gear at the rear to take up any slack in the chain. Check the chain tension to ensure it’s not too tight or too loose. If necessary, adjust the tension using the barrel adjusters on the derailleur.
Adjusting the Chain Tension
Step 7: Fine-Tune the Tension
Once the chain is in place, it’s crucial to ensure optimal tension to prevent derailment and premature wear. Here are detailed steps for fine-tuning the tension:
- Lift the Bike by the Saddle: Grab the bike by the saddle and lift it off the ground, letting the rear wheel hang freely.
- Spin the Cranks: Start pedaling the cranks backward and observe the chain movement.
- Check for Slack: Ensure that there’s no excess slack in the chain. It should not sag significantly or bounce excessively.
- Tighten or Loosen the Tension: Adjust the tension by rotating the tensioners on the rear derailleur. Turn the tensioner screws clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen.
- Re-Check Slack: Repeat steps 2 and 3 to verify that the slack is removed and the chain is sufficiently taut.
- Measure the Deflection: Use a chain tension gauge to measure the amount of chain deflection under pressure. Aim for a deflection of approximately 10-15 millimeters when you press down on the chain halfway between the chainrings.
- Secure the Tensioners: Once the tension is set, tighten the tensioner screws securely to prevent the chain from slipping.
| Chain Tension | Recommended Deflection |
|---|---|
| Road Bikes | 10-15 millimeters |
| Mountain Bikes | 15-20 millimeters |
Testing the Chain’s Functionality
Before reattaching the chain, it’s crucial to test its functionality to ensure it’s not damaged or has any excessive wear.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to testing the chain:
- Visual Inspection: Examine the chain thoroughly for any visible signs of damage, such as broken links, bent pins, or excessive rust.
- Clean the Chain: Remove any dirt or debris from the chain using a chain cleaner or degreaser. This will help identify any underlying issues more clearly.
- Check for Loose Links: Grasp the chain between your thumb and forefinger and gently pull the links apart. If any links move excessively, they may be worn or damaged.
- Measure Pin Wear: If you have a chain wear indicator, use it to measure the pin wear. If the pins are worn beyond the recommended limit, the chain should be replaced.
- Bend a Pin: Carefully bend a pin slightly with pliers to check its flexibility. A brittle pin may snap, indicating the need for a new chain.
- Lubricate the Chain: Apply a small amount of chain lubricant to the links and let it penetrate for a few minutes. This will help reduce friction and improve the chain’s performance.
- Turn the Crank: With the rear wheel on the ground, shift to the lowest gear and slowly turn the crank backward. Observe if the chain moves smoothly and without hesitation.
- Shift Gears: Shift the gears through all the positions to check if the chain engages properly on each cog. Any skipping or hesitation may indicate alignment issues or a damaged chain.
- Ride Test (Optional): If the chain passes all the previous tests, consider taking a short ride to test its performance under real-world conditions. Observe if there are any unusual noises, vibrations, or slipping.
1. Gather the Necessary Tools
You will need a set of Allen keys or a multi-tool to remove the rear wheel, a chain cleaning tool, degreaser, chain lubricant, and clean rags.
2. Remove the Rear Wheel
Locate the quick-release lever or axle nuts on the rear wheel and loosen them. Carefully lift the rear wheel up and out of the frame.
3. Clean the Chain
Use the chain cleaning tool to remove dirt and grime from the chain. Apply degreaser to the tool and run it through the chain several times until it comes out clean.
4. Lubricate the Chain
Apply a thin layer of chain lubricant to the clean chain. Use an applicator tool or squeeze the lubricant directly onto the chain while rotating it slowly.
5. Reattach the Rear Wheel
Lift the rear wheel back into the frame and align it with the axle slots. Tighten the quick-release lever or axle nuts by hand, then use an Allen key or multi-tool to tighten them further.
6. Check Chain Tension
Grip the chain and pull it up from the middle. There should be about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of slack in the chain.
7. Adjust the Derailleur (if needed)
If the chain is slipping, you may need to adjust the rear derailleur. Use the barrel adjuster or adjusting screws to fine-tune the alignment.
8. Check Shifting Performance
Shift through all the gears to make sure the chain is moving smoothly and not slipping.
9. Ride and Reassess
Ride your bike for a short while and assess the chain’s performance. Make any necessary adjustments or lubrications as needed.
Tips for Maintaining a Clean and Functioning Chain
10. Clean the Chain Regularly
A clean chain will last longer and perform better. Clean it at least every 200-300 miles or more often if you ride in wet or dirty conditions.
| Lubricant Type | Recommended Usage |
|---|---|
| Dry Lube | Dry conditions |
| Wet Lube | Wet conditions |
| All-Weather Lube | All conditions |
11. Lubricate the Chain Regularly
A lubricated chain will run smoothly and prevent premature wear. Lubricate it at least every 50-100 miles or more often if you ride in wet or dirty conditions.
12. Check Chain Wear
A worn chain can damage your other drivetrain components. Check the chain periodically for signs of wear, such as elongated links, rust, or excessive stretching.
How To Put A Chain Back On A Bike
If your bike chain has come off, don’t worry! It’s a relatively easy fix that you can do yourself with a few simple tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put a chain back on a bike:
- Shift the rear derailleur to the smallest cog. This will make it easier to get the chain back on.
- Lift the rear wheel off the ground. You can do this by flipping the bike upside down or by using a bike stand.
- Find the end of the chain that is still attached to the bike. It will be hanging down from the rear derailleur.
- Thread the end of the chain through the jockey wheels. These are the small wheels that are located on the rear derailleur.
- Once the chain is through the jockey wheels, lift it up and over the largest cog on the rear cassette.
- Continue threading the chain through the jockey wheels and over the remaining cogs until it reaches the smallest cog.
- Once the chain is on the smallest cog, shift the rear derailleur to the largest cog. This will tension the chain.
- Put the rear wheel back on the ground and check the chain tension. It should be tight enough so that there is no slack, but not so tight that it is difficult to pedal.
People Also Ask
Why did my bike chain come off?
There are a few reasons why a bike chain might come off. The most common reason is that the chain is not properly tensioned. Other reasons include:
- A worn or damaged chain
- A bent or damaged derailleur
- A loose or damaged cassette
How can I prevent my bike chain from coming off?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your bike chain from coming off:
- Keep your chain properly tensioned.
- Inspect your chain regularly for wear and damage.
- Inspect your derailleur regularly for bent or damage.
- Inspect your cassette regularly for loose or damaged cogs.
