How Do You Measure A Bike Chain

A number of different chain widths are available to suit specific bike types such as bmx or to fit different road and mtb drivetrains e g.
How do you measure a bike chain. Over time distance and cycling conditions the rivets and rollers begin to wear out causing the chain to actually stretch in length. It should stay in place without you needing to hold it. So i made this video of how to measure chain stretch wear using a 12 inch ruler. You can compare the original chain to the new chain and match the rivets.
But if you re using an aluminium weight weenie cassette it could be toast at a 0 5 measurement the important thing to do is to test your bike after a chain swap. An 11 speed cassette requires a different chain to a 9 speed one the chain must be thinner in order to fit into the narrower spaces between the sprockets. Facing the bike from the drive side push the pin into the chain to hold it together. Pick up the chain tool again and unscrew the handle a.
Measure a motorcycle chain by first measuring the overall length hen measure the individual links by measuring the distance between the roller. If you need to replace the chain on your bike determine how long the new chain needs to be. This video will take you step by step through sizing a bike chain including determining whether your old chain was correctly sized sizing to an old chain and the largest cog chainring method. I was asked how to measure chain wear without using a gauge like park tool s cc 3 or cc 3 2.
With the roller distance you can find the gearing ratio for your model of bike you will need to consult your bike s manual. If you don t have the original chain or it s the wrong size use the largest cog and chainring to find the cutting point on the new chain. A brand new chain will measure 12 inches across 12 links so if you measure your chain and it is 12 1 16 inches across 12 links then it s time to replace it.