Unless using a special half link (as mentioned and linked to by Chris H) to shorten a chain you have to remove the same number of outer and inner plate links
. The distance between the joining pins is 0.5 inch so joined chain are always a multiple of whole inches long.
Can you shorten any bike chain?
Conclusion. Bike chains can lengthen due to age and use, or you may buy one that’s too long.
With a few tools, a bike stand, and a little time you can remove extra links, shorten the chain
and make your bike rideable once again.
How do you shorten a bike chain with Quick Link?
How do you shorten a bike chain without a master link?
What happens if bicycle chain too long?
A chain that’s too long (loose) may cause
dropped chains and/or inconsistent shifting — front and back shifting
. A chain that’s too short (tight) can cause even bigger problems.
How do you shorten a bike chain without special tools?
What is half link chain?
What is a Half-Link Chain? Unlike the full-link chain, the half-link chain
allows you to remove just a single link
; this is made possible through the half-link featuring both an external and internal end. The ability to remove one link allows for fine-tuning of rear wheel placement.
How do you make a chain shorter?
How do you shorten a chain necklace without cutting it?
Without cutting the chain
There are other solutions:
Make several turns around your wrist to have a multirang bracelet or around your neck to make a build-up of choker
. If your chain is not too big, slip a pendant over your chain and tie a knot just above. Place your clasp on another link, somewhere else on the chain.
Can you remove a link from a bike chain?
Hold the bike’s chain on every link side using your hands and pull it apart by wiggling it to and fro until the chain link breaks out
. After separating a part of the chain links, you can remove them from the cogs or sprockets and take them out from your bicycle.
How do you cut a metal chain link?
How do you change a chain on a bike without a chain tool?
How do you cut a chain without a tool?
Do all bike chains have a master link?
Not all bikes have these links
. They are most likely to be found on BMX bikes, single speed bikes or three-speed town bikes with internal gears. The more sprockets a bicycle has on its rear cassette, the narrower the chain must be and therefore the less room there is for this extra-wide master link.
How many links should my chain have?
Bicycle drive chain length
A new bicycle chain usually comes with
116 links
. This is long enough for the biggest chainrings and for most distances of rear wheel from front chainrings. So for optimal length a new chain is usually shortened from the 116 links that come in the box.
When should I shorten my bike chain?
Removing the chain
You must ensure that the gap between the pins corresponds to 12 inches.
If it extends to more than 12 1⁄8 inches
, it is time to replace your bike chain or shorten the chain. If you counted the links right, you just need to loosen the back wheel by pulling it backward.
How do you adjust bike chain length?
How do I remove a chain link without a chain tool?
Can you use a half link chain on a mountain bike?
Half link chains most commonly come in 1/8′′ width for BMX and general single speed use. You can also get them
in 3/32′′ width
for use with a mountain bike drivetrain, a lot of dirt jump mountain bikes run a mountain bike crankset with a 3/32′′ chainring for example.
What size is a half link chain?
The majority of BMX chains – both traditional and half-link – come in a
half inch (1/2′′) length
. BMX chain width has two options, 3/32′′ and 1/8′′.
What is chain master link?
A master link or quick-release link is
a roller chain accessory that allows convenient connection and disconnection of a chain without the need for a chain tool
. It acts as a set of the chain’s outer plates, so joining two sets of the chain’s inner plate ends.
Can a rope chain be shortened?
Shortening rope chains, snake chains, and thick, stone-studded cuban/curb chains aren’t as easy as the usual chain shortening process
. While the principle of removing the section and reattaching the clasp to the remainder of the item remains the same, the process is irreversible for these items.
