Do all bike chains have a master link?

Not all bikes have these links. They are most likely to be found on BMX bikes, single speed bikes or three-speed town bikes with internal gears. The more sprockets a bicycle has on its rear cassette, the narrower the chain must be and therefore the less room there is for this extra-wide master link.

What if my bike chain doesn't have a master link?

Using a chain pin: If your chain does not have a master link, use a chain tool to reconnect the chain with the chain pin included with your new chain. If you are repairing an existing chain, always use a new chain pin rather than reusing an existing pin.

How do you take off a bike chain without a master link?

Position the bike chain so that it is bridged across two solid supports such as blocks of wood or two wrenches. Take a punch tool and place it over one of the rivets in the chain. Use a hammer to push the rivet out and separate the chain to remove it. This method can also be used to shorten a new chain if necessary.

Do chains come with a master link?

Some chains have a rivited master link so it looks like the other links. Check both sides of the chain for the master link clip, some people install the master with the clip inside so as not to ruin the cases if it comes apart. If still no master link then you have a chain with a rivited master link.

Do Shimano chains have a master link?

However, even Shimano is now changing its tune and its latest 11 and 12 speed chains are available with master links.

Bicycle Chain Master Links: Tips

Do Shimano chains come with quick links?

Shimano never releases a product until it is completely satisfied it performs the best it can, and although it's as simple as two halves snapping together and joining a chain, Shimano has refrained from making its own quick link.

Are bike chains universal?

No. Not all makes and models of bike chains fit on all bikes. Most modern bike chains are made to the one-half inch pitch, but this dosn't mean all chains fit all bikes.

What is the point of a master link?

A master link or quick-release link is a roller chain accessory that allows convenient connection and disconnection of a chain without the need for a chain tool. It acts as a set of the chain's outer plates, so joining two sets of the chain's inner plate ends.

How do I know what bike chain to buy?

When selecting a chain, the first consideration is the number of rear sprockets. The rear cog sets have been made with 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 sprockets. As the number of cogs on the rear hub increases, the spacing between cogs tends to be reduced.

How much does it cost to get a bike chain replaced?

How much does a bike chain cost to replace? Entry level chains can start off around $15.00 with more expensive and higher performance chains ranging from $25.00 to $60.00 or more. More expensive chains increase shift quality and are generally more durable as they wear.

How do you shorten a chain without a master link?

In order to shorten the link without a chain tool, you need an alternative tool like a hammer, pliers or thin nail. They will assist you in pushing the pin easily. You can position the chain over a socket, and hit it with a hammer.

Can you put any bike chain on a bike?

The correct type of chain depends on the type of riding your bike is made for, and the number of gears it has. Chains from most manufacturers should fit, as long as the chain is made from good quality material and matches the number of sprockets in your bike's rear cassette.

How do I know what size chain I have?

To measure the chain size, if you have just the sprocket, use calipers to measure between the teeth. Measure from center to center of where the chain roller would set between the teeth that will give you the pitch. Once you know the pitch you can determine what chain size you would need.

How do I know what size chain to get?

After a measurement is obtained, its a good idea to opt for a necklace size that is at least the second size up from your neck size. For example, if you have an 18 inch neck, you should probably choose a chain length of 20 inches or more. An 18 inch chain would feel too tight.

Does an Ultegra chain have a master link?

The Shimano chains use a special reinforced connecting pin, however, for reassembly. But there is no Master Link that is standard with the Ultegra chain AFAIK.

Does Shimano chain come with PIN?

genuine shimano chains come with a pin like that and either a joining pin or a quick connector. Genuine aftermarket shimano chains come with packaging and instructions and normally are not the cheapest out there.

Can you fit a quick link to any chain?

Tips: If you have a chain without a quick link, you can get one for it. Just make sure the link matches your chain type, i.e. 8-, 9-, 10-, 11-speed. I recommend carrying a spare, too, because it's the easy way to fix a broken chain on the road.

Can I use KMC missing link on Shimano chain?

Yes. I've used SRAM and KMC missing links on 9- and 10-speed Shimano chains for years.

Are KMC chains directional?

While some bike chains are directional, most aren't. For instance, Shimano chains tend to be directional while SRAM, KMC, Campagnolo chains are non-directional. Directional components usually have logos facing outwards on one of the side plates.

Can you reuse a Shimano chain pin?

Shimano says to not re-use quick links: “Do not reuse a QUICK-LINK that has been removed. If the QUICK-LINK is reused, there is a risk that it will loosen and become detached, which may result in an accident.” I think they are overly cautious there.