Do Bike Chains Vary In Length?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Chains come in 3⁄32 in (2.4 mm), 1⁄8 in (3.2 mm), 5⁄32 in (4.0 mm), or 3⁄16 in (4.8 mm) roller widths, the internal width between the inner plates. 1⁄8 in (3.2 mm) chains are typically used on bikes with a single rear sprocket: those with coaster brakes, hub gears, fixed gears such as track bicycles, or BMX bikes.

Does the length of a chain matter?

While

an over-length chain can cause some annoying issues, one that is too short can be downright catastrophic

. The best case scenario is that your bike will refuse to shift to the larger sized cogs or chain rings due to too much chain tension.

How do I know what size chain I need for my bike?

The method of chain sizing depends upon the range of gearing in the system. For bikes with rear sprockets 36 teeth and smaller, the common system is to

measure using the largest rear sprocket and largest front ring as a reference

. Two rivets are added to this (one-inch) for the place to cut the chain.

How long of a chain do I need for my bike?


Add the multiplied chainstay length, the divided number of teeth for the chainring and rear sprocket, and add 1 (or 2.5 cm)

. The result is the ideal chain length for your bike. For example, you’d add 32.5, 13, 7 and 1 to get 53.5. The length of the chain should be 53.5 inches or 135.89 cm.

Are bike chains universal?

All modern bicycle chains are made to the “one-half inch pitch” standard, meaning from rivet to rivet is nominally 0.5 inches. The sprocket teeth are cut for this same one-half inch standard to accept bicycle chains. However,

this does not mean all makes and models of chains are interchangeable

.

Are 11 and 12 speed chains the same?


12-speed chains can operate just fine with 11-speed cassettes

. The main exception are Shimano’s new 12-speed HG+ models which are heavily optimized for downshifting and thus come with custom inner plates that don’t mix well with non-Shimano 12-speed components.

How long should my chain be?

After a measurement is obtained, its a good idea to opt for a necklace size that is

at least the second size up from your neck size

. For example, if you have an 18 inch neck, you should probably choose a chain length of 20 inches or more. An 18 inch chain would feel too tight.

How do you calculate chain length?

  1. Calculate C, where C = CD/p.
  2. Calculate A, where A = Z1 + Z2.
  3. Calculate S, where S = Z2 – Z1.
  4. Refer to the adjacent table to find the T value for the calculated S value.
  5. Chain Length in Pitches, CL = 2C + (A/2) + (T/C)

Is my chain too long?

Here’s How: Do a simple check on your bike by shifting the chain to the big chainring and the biggest cassette cog; then, push on the end of the derailleur cage (pushing forward) to see how much it will move forward. If it moves just a little, then you’re good.

If it moves a lot, then you’ve got too much chain

.

Does chain length affect performance?

The shorter the better, Because

longer chain will have more sag and that sag gives result in more lag

. Longer chain also means more weight and more inertia. The speed ofthe bike, is not chain size, but cog size.

Does chain length affect shifting?

Chains come in many different types, configurations and widths. There are also myriad crank and derailleur combinations, so sizing the chain to the correct length is extremely important for drivetrain longevity and shifting performance.

If you install a chain too short or too long, you can affect performance

.

Does length of chain affect speed?

Registered. Sprocket and gear size affect performance (speed/torque)…

The length of the chain will only effect your wheel base

What chain size do I need?

If you are using a bike with a derailleur

the number of cogs on the rear hub will determine the chain size you will need

. They are always 3/32′′ chains. You can get a 5/6/7-speed, 8-speed, 9-speed, or 10-speed chains.

Are 7 and 8 speed chains the same?


Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo all use the same chain with 8 speeds

. Chain for 7 speeds is a bit wider – 7.3 mm, while a 6 speed one is substantially wider – 7.8 mm. That is why the reverse is not the case and a 7 speed chain and especially a 6 speed one will not work as well on an 8 speed system.

What is a 420 chain?



All PEER roller chains incorporate solid rollers enhancing rotation on the

.

bushing while reducing impact loads on the sprocket tooth during operation

. – All chain components are heat treated to achieve maximum strength. and greater wear resistance.

Are SRAM and Shimano chains interchangeable?


Shimano and SRAM 11-speed chains are cross-compatible

. If you have a Shimano 11-speed drivetrain, a SRAM chain will work fine and vice versa, however manufacturer’s recommend pairing your components for optimal performance.

Can I use a 8 speed chain on a 9 speed cassette?

9sp gears have less space between them, so

an 8sp chain would rub or jump, which is noisy and/or dangerous

. Conversely, a slightly thinner 9sp chain will fit on the wider spaced sprockets of an 8sp bike and not rub. It is only slightly thinner, so it won’t cause trouble.

Can I use a 10-speed chainring with a 11-speed chain?


You can certainly use a Shimano 10-speed double crank and chainrings with Shimano 11-speed chain

, derailleurs, shifters and cassette, however.

Can I use 10-speed chain on 11-speed cassette?


A 10-speed chain will be too wide for an 11-speed cassette

. It will cause rubbing, poor shifting, and premature wear of the drivetrain. To increase the drivetrain’s lifespan and ensure smooth shifting, it’s recommended to stay away from this combination.

Is 20 inch chain too short?

If you have an 18-inch neck size, then an 18-inch chain is not going to fit. However,

if you want the look of a short chain necklace a 20-22 inch would be about right

.

Is an 18-inch necklace too short?

What is the most common necklace length?


18-inch

, or princess, necklaces are the most popular necklace length. They can be worn with any neckline and outfit – transitioning effortlessly from a chic, everyday look to an elegant, evening ensemble.

How long is a 116 link bike chain?

One link is two pin-to-pin dimensions. Each pin is 1/2′′ from its neighbor, so a full link is 1′′ long. When they say the chain is 116 links, they are really saying there are 116 pins, for a chain length of

58 inches

.

How do you lengthen a bike chain?

How low does an 18 inch chain hang?

45 cm / 18′′ – An 18 inch necklace is popular choice among women and will fall

just below the throat at the collarbone

. This length is popular for adding pendants, and the piece will hang over a crew neck t-shirt.

Emily Lee
Author
Emily Lee
Emily Lee is a freelance writer and artist based in New York City. She’s an accomplished writer with a deep passion for the arts, and brings a unique perspective to the world of entertainment. Emily has written about art, entertainment, and pop culture.