Bicycle Chain Length Stretch

The typical 57 link chain used on the average multi speed bike had 570 parts more than the whole rest of the bicycle put together.

Bicycle chain length stretch.

It pedals fine in the bike stand but i ve not ridden it yet. This is the most important type of chain wear and the growth comes from the. I installed new double chainrings that are 2 teeth larger but have not lengthened the chain. Because the chain s overall length grows with wear chain wear is commonly called chain stretch even though the metal does not measurably stretch.

The chain may or may not bear on the front face of the teeth near the return run and pull lightly back on the sprocket. On a new chain the 12 ruler mark should line up precisely with the centre of the chain rivet at this point. The cc 4 chain checker contacts the chain in three places providing an accurate measurement on all 5 to 12 speed bicycle chains including sram axs 12 speed chains. The chain length must match the distance between crank and rear hub and the sizes of the front chain ring and rear sprocket.

The cc 4 accurately indicates when a chain has reached 5 and 75 wear the points at which most manufacturers suggest replacement. Chain wear often called chain stretch. Place the ruler s zero mark at the centre of a chain pin now count 12 complete links. A bicycle chain is a roller chain that transfers power from the pedals to the drive wheel of a bicycle.

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. An old style bicycle chain has ten parts per link. The american chain association manual 1972 edition includes the image below showing engagement of a new and worn chain with a new sprocket. Chain wear is commonly referred to as chain stretch because the chain s pitch grows in length as it wears.

The cc 3 2 is long accurate and features permanent measurement markings. Bicycle mechanics derailleur stretch chain length. An exploded view of a single chain. The worn chain at the right is shown with links of unequal length.

Over time distance and cycling conditions the rivets and rollers begin to wear out causing the chain to actually stretch in length. Finally there is an easy way to measure your chain for stretch that can be accomplished with a metal ruler with imperial or metric markings.