How to Match a Sprocket With a Chain

Matching a sprocket to a chain on your bicycle requires the use of a dial caliper in order to determine whether the chain will actually work with the sprocket. Although this is most commonly used on bicycles, there are other items, such as motorcycles, that may require checking on whether a sprocket works with a specific chain. Matching the two helps to avoid premature wear of the chain drive, and also helps to prevent derailing of the chain.

Things You'll Need

  • Dial calipers
  • Paper
  • Pencil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pinch the sprocket's width with the dial calipers. Bicycles use a number of different sizes for chains and sprockets. For instance, your 10-speed bike will use a 3/32-inch chain, while a three-wheel bike uses a 5/32-inch chain. Motorcycles, however, will use thicker sprockets.

    • 2

      Note the thickness of the sprocket on the paper with the pencil.

    • 3

      Measure the distance between the teeth of the sprocket at their highest point, and then make a note of this distance on the paper. On bicycles, a standard size chain is used that fits in this measurement, which is known as pitch. The pitch on bicycles is 1/2 of an inch. On motorcycles, the pitch may vary.

    • 4

      Match the measurements you took of the sprocket to the measurements of the chain you intend to purchase. The chain measurements will be slightly greater than the width of the sprocket itself, but need to be within 1/64 of an inch for the chain to match the sprocket. The chain packaging will indicate to you the needed sprocket width and pitch for use with your application.