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.
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===Bushinless Chains===
 
===Bushinless Chains===
 +
Common sizes for bushing chains are 1/2x3/32 and 1/2x11/128.
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::{| 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
 +
|-
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! Shimano
 +
| 7/8 HG || 1/2" x 3/32"  || 7.3mm || 2.2mm || 7.75mm
 +
|-
 +
! SRAM
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| 8 || 1/2" x 3/32"  || 7.1mm || 2.2mm || 7.75mm
 +
|-
 +
! SRAM
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| 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.  
 
+
One issue that comes up from time to time is the use of 1/2 links. The use of a ½ link allows you to vary the chain length by 1/2 inch intervals, rather than one inch with a standard link. This comes in handy when you are trying to convert a bicycle with vertical dropouts. 1/2 links are very plentiful in 1/8 inch and now available in 3/32 inch by spicercycles.com and KMC (i.e. AEBike.com).
 
  
 
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.  
 
As a final caveat there is the question of longevity aka "streaching". Regardless of what you hear, all chains get longer with use (I'd call that stretching). There are so many factors that go into this "lengthening", that it's futile to try and rank one chain over another. Just try and keep your chain clean and lubricated and when it has stretches 1/8" over a foot, replace it.
 
  
  
 
[[category:Bicycle]]
 
[[category:Bicycle]]
 
[[category:Drivetrain (Bicycle)]]
 
[[category:Drivetrain (Bicycle)]]

Latest revision as of 16:57, 25 January 2007

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
SRAM PC-48 to PC99 Manual
  • 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.