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How to shorten a bike chain

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How to shorten a bike chain

If you’re like most cyclists, you probably dread having to shorten your bike chain. It can be a tricky process if you’re not familiar with the steps involved. But don’t worry – we’re here to help you how to shorten a bike chain ?

In this blog post, we will walk you through some easy steps for shortening a bike chain. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to do it yourself in no time!

How to shorten a bike chain

Important Material before Process:

Bike stand – This is essential for holding your bike in place while you work on it.

Chain cleaner or chain degreasers – These will help to clean the chain and remove any built-up grease or dirt.

Hammer – You’ll need this to push the pins back into place after shortening the chain.

Plier – You can use a regular plier or a special bike chain tool, which is designed specifically for this purpose.

Thin nail – A thin nail can be helpful for opening the master link if it’s being stubborn.

Lubricant – Applying a lubricant to the chain will keep it running smoothly.

How to shorten a bike chain Step-By-Step Process:

Removing the chain:

  • Knowing whether your bike needs replacement.
  • Use a bike stand to hold the bicycle in place while you work on it.
  • Locate and open up with pliers or thin nail, turning pedals until they are easy enough for opening by hand; if difficult try using hammer gently tapping down on one end at time will help get them loose but do not use too much force!
  • You’ll need this tool push pins back into place after shortening chains which can be done through pulling outwards from either side using needle nose pliers (the smaller ones)
  • Other small pointed object like screwdriver blade – remove link closest where you start (this may require removing two links at once).

Shortening the chain:

  • Determine how many links you want to remove and make sure that there is enough slack in your new chain for this by holding it up next with one hand while pushing pin outwards on either side using pliers (smaller ones).
  • This will ensure a smooth transition when riding over rough terrain. The most common method of shortening a bike chain is done by removing two links at once but if only one link needs to be removed then just pull back towards yourself until they come apart easily.
  • If all pins need to be pushed out manually without assistance from the tool then take off some other piece so there’s room underneath them before starting the process again – remember always measure twice cut once!

Reassembling the chain:

  • Tie together the end of the chain with a master link. This can usually be bought separately or found on old chains that have been removed.
  • If you’re having trouble finding one, there are plenty of tutorials online that will show you how to make your own.
  • Once it’s tied together, put the chain back on to the bike. Apply oil and lubricant to the chain.
  • Test and inspect your work before riding off into the sunset (or morning commute). Congratulations – you’ve just shortened your bike chain!

We hope this article was helpful and easy to follow. Remember, shortening a bike chain is not as hard as it seems – just take your time and follow these simple steps. Happy cycling!

How do you shorten a bike chain without a chain tool?

Step One- Measure Your Bike Chain. 

First, you will need to measure the length of your chain and remove two links from it. You can use a ruler or measuring tape in order to do this but be sure that you are accurate with your measurements so that it doesn’t affect the performance of your bike.

Next, you will need to take off your back wheel and derailleur so that you have easy access to the chain. Once this is done, locate the master link on your chain and remove the pins that hold it together.

Step Three – Remove The Pins And Reassemble. 

Now that the master link is removed, you can easily pull out the links you just cut from the chain. Be careful not to lose any of the small pieces! After this is done, reattach the master link by putting the pins back in place and snapping them shut. You’re all done!

Shortening a bike chain without a chain tool can be a little tricky but with these easy steps, you’ll be able to do it in no time. Just be sure to measure accurately and take your time when removing and reassembling the links. Enjoy your shorter chain and better biking performance!

How do you cut a chain without a chain breaker?

If you don’t have a chain breaker, there is another way to shorten your chain. This method involves removing the pins from the master link and breaking the chain apart by hand. It’s a little more difficult but it can be done if you’re careful.

If you don’t have a master link, you can still shorten your chain by removing links one at a time. This is a little more difficult but it’s the only option if you don’t have a chain tool. Just be careful not to lose any of the small pieces and take your time when removing and reassembling the links.

Shortening a bike chain without a chain tool can be tricky but with these easy steps, you’ll be able to do it in no time! Just be sure to measure accurately and take your time when removing and reassembling the links. Enjoy your shorter chain and better biking performance!

Conclusion:

In this post, we learned how to shorten a bike chain. The first step is measuring the length of your chain and removing two links from it; then you will need to prep your bike and locate the master link on it so that when you remove those pins holding together, everything goes smoothly! Finally after replacing all these things back in their place

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