Difference between revisions of "Bicycle Chains"
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===General Concept=== | ===General Concept=== | ||
| + | Bicycle chains follow [http://www.iso.org/iso/en/CatalogueDetailPage.CatalogueDetail?CSNUMBER=23532&ICS1=43&ICS2=150&ICS3= ISO 9633:2001] and JIS D 9417:1993 specifications for tolerances and specifications. US Tsubaki describes bicycle chains [http://chain-guide.com/applications/1-5-1-bicycle-chain.html HERE]. A quick reference to chain dimentions is [http://www.gizmology.net/sprockets.htm HERE]. Since a bicycle chain running in a derailure type configuration must allow for latteral movement, bushless chains are used. On single speed, or internally geared configurations, a bushing chain should be used. | ||
| + | |||
===Bushing Chains=== | ===Bushing Chains=== | ||
| + | |||
| + | Common sizes for bushing chains are 1/2x1/8 and 1/2x3/32. For all but abusive BMX riding, a 3/32 is the best choice, although they are very hard to find in that size. | ||
| + | |||
===Bushinless Chains=== | ===Bushinless Chains=== | ||
| + | Common sizes for bushing chains are 1/2x3/32 and 1/2x11/128. | ||
| + | |||
| + | ::{| border="3" | ||
| + | |+ '''Chain Info''' | ||
| + | ! Brand !! Speed !! Size !! Pin Width !! Roller Width !! Roller Diameter | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | ! Shimano | ||
| + | | 10 || 1/2" x 11/128" || 5.9mm || 2.2mm || 7.75mm | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | ! Shimano | ||
| + | | 9 || 1/2" x 11/128" || 6.6mm || 2.2mm || 7.75mm | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | ! SRAM | ||
| + | | 9 || 1/2" x 11/128" || 6.65mm || 2.2mm || 7.75mm | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | ! Shimano | ||
| + | | 7/8 IG || 1/2" x 3/32" || 7.1mm || 2.2mm || 7.75mm | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | ! Shimano | ||
| + | | 7/8 HG || 1/2" x 3/32" || 7.3mm || 2.2mm || 7.75mm | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | ! SRAM | ||
| + | | 8 || 1/2" x 3/32" || 7.1mm || 2.2mm || 7.75mm | ||
| + | |- | ||
| + | ! SRAM | ||
| + | | 7 || 1/2" x 3/32" || 6.8mm || 2.2mm || 7.75mm | ||
| + | |} | ||
| + | |||
===Connecting Chains=== | ===Connecting Chains=== | ||
* Hyper glide pins | * Hyper glide pins | ||
| + | : [http://bike.shimano.com/media/cycling/techdocs/en/bikecomponents/CN/SI-CN-7701_v1_m56577569830558543.pdf CN-7701/CN-HG93/CN-HG50/CN-IG51 Manual] | ||
| + | : [http://bike.shimano.com/media/cycling/techdocs/en/bikecomponents/CN/SI-08V0B_En_v1_m56577569830538357.pdf CN-7801/CN-6600/CN-5600 Manual] | ||
| + | : 7 and 8 speed chains use a black rivet. | ||
| + | : 9 speed chain uses a silver rivet. | ||
| + | : 10 speed chain uses a 3 grooved rivet. | ||
* Quick links | * Quick links | ||
| + | : [http://www.sram.com/_media/techdocs/Chain_all_MTB_08_02.pdf SRAM PC-48 to PC99 Manual] | ||
* Master links | * Master links | ||
* Riveted links | * Riveted links | ||
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===Offset Links=== | ===Offset Links=== | ||
Commonly refered to as a 'half link', a misnomer since it is really a single link with offset plates. | Commonly refered to as a 'half link', a misnomer since it is really a single link with offset plates. | ||
| + | |||
| + | The use of a offset link allows you to vary the chain length in 0.500" intervals, rather than one inch with a standard paired link. | ||
| + | |||
| + | Although it is possible to use an offset link in a variety of situations, their use is strongly discouraged. It is far better to plan a gearing that will produce the needed [http://www.pvdwiki.com/index.php?title=Chain_Length_Calculation center to center] distance for the application. | ||
| + | |||
| + | Available in 1/8 and 3/32 inch widths. | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Chain Tools=== | ||
| + | Shimano- [http://bike.shimano.com/catalog/cycle/products/multiproduct.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441763235&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302050357&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395181674&bmUID=1168642843291 TL-CN23 or TL-CN32] are able to join 8,9 and 10 speed Shimano chains. | ||
| + | |||
| + | ===Common Cycle Chain Suppliers=== | ||
| + | Shimano<br> | ||
| + | SRAM<br> | ||
| + | Rohloff<br> | ||
| + | Whipperman<br> | ||
| + | ACS<br> | ||
| + | KMC<br> | ||
| + | Regina<br> | ||
===See Also=== | ===See Also=== | ||
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http://www.63xc.com/gregg/gregchai.htm<br> | http://www.63xc.com/gregg/gregchai.htm<br> | ||
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/rinard/chain_stiffness.htm<br> | http://www.sheldonbrown.com/rinard/chain_stiffness.htm<br> | ||
| + | [http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=25 Park Tool: How to] | ||
Traditionally single speeders used 1/8 inch BMX chains, since most single speed (SS) bikes are just 26" wheel BMX bikes anyway. Other reasons include the fact that SS track bikes and old BMX bikes had 1/8 inch cogs and chainrings and since 1/8 inch chains looked bigger than 3/32 chains they must be stronger. Also 3/32 (7-8-9 speed) multi-speed rated (MSR) chains are designed to derail, something you don't want to happen on a SS bike. A second look however shows there had been a lot more R&D money thrown at MSR 3/32 chains by Shimano and SRAM, so most 3/32 chains meet or exceed the tensile or "pull" strength of 1/8 inch chains. Since most single speed components available today come in 3/32, it seems logical to use 3/32 chains. On the other hand, while some claim that 1/8 inch chains on 3/32 gears cause more noise and wear than 3/32 chains, the jury is still out on this matter as many more use prefer this set-up. In the real world, it would seem the use of 1/8 inch chains work fine on 3/32 components and some, such as the SRAM PC-7 and KMC Kool chains are stronger. | Traditionally single speeders used 1/8 inch BMX chains, since most single speed (SS) bikes are just 26" wheel BMX bikes anyway. Other reasons include the fact that SS track bikes and old BMX bikes had 1/8 inch cogs and chainrings and since 1/8 inch chains looked bigger than 3/32 chains they must be stronger. Also 3/32 (7-8-9 speed) multi-speed rated (MSR) chains are designed to derail, something you don't want to happen on a SS bike. A second look however shows there had been a lot more R&D money thrown at MSR 3/32 chains by Shimano and SRAM, so most 3/32 chains meet or exceed the tensile or "pull" strength of 1/8 inch chains. Since most single speed components available today come in 3/32, it seems logical to use 3/32 chains. On the other hand, while some claim that 1/8 inch chains on 3/32 gears cause more noise and wear than 3/32 chains, the jury is still out on this matter as many more use prefer this set-up. In the real world, it would seem the use of 1/8 inch chains work fine on 3/32 components and some, such as the SRAM PC-7 and KMC Kool chains are stronger. | ||
| − | + | ||
| − | |||
So do you need a single speed (non MSR) over a MSR chain? No, not really. Is there any advantage to a 1/8 inch chain? Yes, there can be if you have chainline and/or derailing problems a SS chain can help; and as I said before some are stronger. However if you are using a tensioner such as the early Surly Singleator a 1/8 chain may not work. Additionally if your are having a problem with your Singleator skipping, they work best with a 3/32 “ chain, in the push-up mode, without a 1/2 link, and with the addition of a zip-tie connecting the Singleator arm to the chainstay. | So do you need a single speed (non MSR) over a MSR chain? No, not really. Is there any advantage to a 1/8 inch chain? Yes, there can be if you have chainline and/or derailing problems a SS chain can help; and as I said before some are stronger. However if you are using a tensioner such as the early Surly Singleator a 1/8 chain may not work. Additionally if your are having a problem with your Singleator skipping, they work best with a 3/32 “ chain, in the push-up mode, without a 1/2 link, and with the addition of a zip-tie connecting the Singleator arm to the chainstay. | ||
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So what chain should you buy? There is a plethora of 1/8 inch chains out there; one of the favorites is the SRAM PC-7 (on the other hand there has been considerable anecdotal information that the SRAM PC-1 (1/8) chain is of low grade and should be avoided). . KMC also makes a line of 1/8 inch (or 3/16 inch if you dare) and 3/32 SS chains. They come in various weights and strengths so you pay your money and make your choice. As far as MSR 3/32 chains go SRAM PC-58 seem to be popular with the anti-Shimano crowd as are the KMC chains. Shimano wise any of the better 7/8 speed HG or IG chains will work; The 9 speed and especially the new 10 speed chains may not work with some BMX cogs and SS chainrings. | So what chain should you buy? There is a plethora of 1/8 inch chains out there; one of the favorites is the SRAM PC-7 (on the other hand there has been considerable anecdotal information that the SRAM PC-1 (1/8) chain is of low grade and should be avoided). . KMC also makes a line of 1/8 inch (or 3/16 inch if you dare) and 3/32 SS chains. They come in various weights and strengths so you pay your money and make your choice. As far as MSR 3/32 chains go SRAM PC-58 seem to be popular with the anti-Shimano crowd as are the KMC chains. Shimano wise any of the better 7/8 speed HG or IG chains will work; The 9 speed and especially the new 10 speed chains may not work with some BMX cogs and SS chainrings. | ||
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| − | |||
[[category:Bicycle]] | [[category:Bicycle]] | ||
[[category:Drivetrain (Bicycle)]] | [[category:Drivetrain (Bicycle)]] | ||
Latest revision as of 16:57, 25 January 2007
Contents
General Concept
Bicycle chains follow ISO 9633:2001 and JIS D 9417:1993 specifications for tolerances and specifications. US Tsubaki describes bicycle chains HERE. A quick reference to chain dimentions is HERE. Since a bicycle chain running in a derailure type configuration must allow for latteral movement, bushless chains are used. On single speed, or internally geared configurations, a bushing chain should be used.
Bushing Chains
Common sizes for bushing chains are 1/2x1/8 and 1/2x3/32. For all but abusive BMX riding, a 3/32 is the best choice, although they are very hard to find in that size.
Bushinless Chains
Common sizes for bushing chains are 1/2x3/32 and 1/2x11/128.
Chain Info Brand Speed Size Pin Width Roller Width Roller Diameter Shimano 10 1/2" x 11/128" 5.9mm 2.2mm 7.75mm Shimano 9 1/2" x 11/128" 6.6mm 2.2mm 7.75mm SRAM 9 1/2" x 11/128" 6.65mm 2.2mm 7.75mm Shimano 7/8 IG 1/2" x 3/32" 7.1mm 2.2mm 7.75mm Shimano 7/8 HG 1/2" x 3/32" 7.3mm 2.2mm 7.75mm SRAM 8 1/2" x 3/32" 7.1mm 2.2mm 7.75mm SRAM 7 1/2" x 3/32" 6.8mm 2.2mm 7.75mm
Connecting Chains
- Hyper glide pins
- CN-7701/CN-HG93/CN-HG50/CN-IG51 Manual
- CN-7801/CN-6600/CN-5600 Manual
- 7 and 8 speed chains use a black rivet.
- 9 speed chain uses a silver rivet.
- 10 speed chain uses a 3 grooved rivet.
- Quick links
- Master links
- Riveted links
Offset Links
Commonly refered to as a 'half link', a misnomer since it is really a single link with offset plates.
The use of a offset link allows you to vary the chain length in 0.500" intervals, rather than one inch with a standard paired link.
Although it is possible to use an offset link in a variety of situations, their use is strongly discouraged. It is far better to plan a gearing that will produce the needed center to center distance for the application.
Available in 1/8 and 3/32 inch widths.
Chain Tools
Shimano- TL-CN23 or TL-CN32 are able to join 8,9 and 10 speed Shimano chains.
Common Cycle Chain Suppliers
Shimano
SRAM
Rohloff
Whipperman
ACS
KMC
Regina
See Also
External Links
http://www.damonrinard.com/chain_stiffness.htm
http://www.63xc.com/gregg/gregchai.htm
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/rinard/chain_stiffness.htm
Park Tool: How to
Traditionally single speeders used 1/8 inch BMX chains, since most single speed (SS) bikes are just 26" wheel BMX bikes anyway. Other reasons include the fact that SS track bikes and old BMX bikes had 1/8 inch cogs and chainrings and since 1/8 inch chains looked bigger than 3/32 chains they must be stronger. Also 3/32 (7-8-9 speed) multi-speed rated (MSR) chains are designed to derail, something you don't want to happen on a SS bike. A second look however shows there had been a lot more R&D money thrown at MSR 3/32 chains by Shimano and SRAM, so most 3/32 chains meet or exceed the tensile or "pull" strength of 1/8 inch chains. Since most single speed components available today come in 3/32, it seems logical to use 3/32 chains. On the other hand, while some claim that 1/8 inch chains on 3/32 gears cause more noise and wear than 3/32 chains, the jury is still out on this matter as many more use prefer this set-up. In the real world, it would seem the use of 1/8 inch chains work fine on 3/32 components and some, such as the SRAM PC-7 and KMC Kool chains are stronger.
So do you need a single speed (non MSR) over a MSR chain? No, not really. Is there any advantage to a 1/8 inch chain? Yes, there can be if you have chainline and/or derailing problems a SS chain can help; and as I said before some are stronger. However if you are using a tensioner such as the early Surly Singleator a 1/8 chain may not work. Additionally if your are having a problem with your Singleator skipping, they work best with a 3/32 “ chain, in the push-up mode, without a 1/2 link, and with the addition of a zip-tie connecting the Singleator arm to the chainstay.
The tensile strength of a SRAM PC-7 is about 2500 ft lbs and only come in 1/8 inch (and pimp gold); all other MSR SRAM chains (including the PC-58) are around 2023 ft lbs. The KMC Kool chains rate at 2860 ft lbs and come in both 3/32 and 1/8inch. The KMC Z chains (with an H in the model number) also come in both sizes (i.e. the 3/32 Z610H; my choice of chain), rate at 2640 ft lbs and are a bit lighter than the Kool chains. KMC ranks most if their MSR chains at 2314 ft LBS; I have not seen and published data for Shimano chains.
So what chain should you buy? There is a plethora of 1/8 inch chains out there; one of the favorites is the SRAM PC-7 (on the other hand there has been considerable anecdotal information that the SRAM PC-1 (1/8) chain is of low grade and should be avoided). . KMC also makes a line of 1/8 inch (or 3/16 inch if you dare) and 3/32 SS chains. They come in various weights and strengths so you pay your money and make your choice. As far as MSR 3/32 chains go SRAM PC-58 seem to be popular with the anti-Shimano crowd as are the KMC chains. Shimano wise any of the better 7/8 speed HG or IG chains will work; The 9 speed and especially the new 10 speed chains may not work with some BMX cogs and SS chainrings.
