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1 Check wear
Whether a chain is still good or worn can be recognised with a wear gauge. There are tools from different brands . If the pin falls completely between the chain links, the chain is broken. Changing the chain early can save you money. Because a defective chain also damages the expensive cassette.
2 Open chain
With chain lock
The first step is to remove the chain. A special tool is required to open chain locks. Chain lock pliersotherwise it gets complicated and choppy. If necessary, you can However, you can open the chain lock with a few tricks, which we explain in a separate article (here in the link). have summarised.
With chain riveter
Traditionally, chains are riveted. If you don't have a lock, you'll have to use a Chain riveters to it. Position the riveter cleanly on the rivet pin. Then use the crank to push the pin completely out of the link plate. When removing the chain, memorise the course well, otherwise it may be difficult to re-thread.
3 The right chain length
How long should the chain be? There are several ways to find out. Either place the old and new chains next to each other. If the old chain is not available, there is an alternative: place the chain on the large sprocket and large chainring. The chain must then overlap by two inner and two outer links. For Sram T-Type, it is essential to determine the exact chain length in the Full Mount Chain Length Guide on the Sram website (or AXS app).
4 Insert new chain
Place the chain over the chainring from the front, not forgetting to thread in the chain guide or derailleur. Then place the chain over the cassette and through the rear derailleur. Pay close attention to the course in the cage and do not overlook the bridge. Also consider the running direction of the chain. With Shimano, the lettering points outwards.
5 Voltage out
To lock the chain, the tension must be removed. First remove the chain inwards from the chainring. A Cable ties between the links of the chain ends can also help, Chain lock or rivet pin to be used.
6 Lock the new chain
With chain lock
To lock the chain, place it neatly on the sprocket and chainring. Rotate the chain lock upwards and press it onto the crank with the brake applied. The lock engages with a click.
With rivet
Insert the appropriate rivet pin with the pointed pin (note: the pin must match the chain!) through the links by hand. Then screw the pin completely in with the riveter. The pin then protrudes on the inside and is broken off with the device on the chain riveter.
The check
If a chain link in the area of the rivet pin is stiff or difficult to move after assembly, it must be loosened by applying slight lateral pressure until everything runs smoothly.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
