How To Buy A Bike Chain May 2026

The most critical factor is the of your drivetrain. Modern cassettes range from 1 to 12 (and occasionally 13) gears. As the number of gears increases, the space between the cogs on your rear wheel decreases. To accommodate this, chains for higher speeds are made progressively narrower.

Timing your purchase is as important as the purchase itself. Waiting until a chain "skips" usually means you have already damaged your cassette and chainrings. how to buy a bike chain

A new chain is a minor expense; a new cassette and crankset are not. Investing in a simple chain checker tool can save you hundreds of dollars by alerting you when it’s time to shop. Chain Compatibility | Park Tool The most critical factor is the of your drivetrain

It is a common misconception that a chain is "ready to wear" out of the box. Almost all new chains are sold with extra links to ensure they can fit even the largest touring bikes. To accommodate this, chains for higher speeds are