How to Change Chains With Sprockets

Over time, bicycle chains stretch and stop meshing with the gears, also known as the cassette or sprockets. When this happens, the chain needs to be changed. Get the correct chain for your bicycle gear ration. If you are unsure what chain to use, bring the old chain to a bicycle shop and ask the clerk to assist in finding the proper replacement.

Things You'll Need

  • Chain tool
  • Link pins
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Stand the bike up against a rack or wall and shift the chain so it is on the largest chain ring and the smallest rear gear. Slide the chain tool over one link on the chain and align the tool pin to the link pin.

    • 2

      Turn the chain tool handle clockwise to push the pin out of the link and break the chain open. Remove the old chain. If necessary, bring the old chain to a bicycle shop to find the suitable replacement.

    • 3

      Thread the new and open chain over the rear gears so the chain rests on the smallest gear and then over the chain rings so it rests on the largest ring. Bring the tow open ends of the chain and marry them together and align the empty link pin holes so the open link closes the chain into a circle. Push the link pin into the holes and slide the chain tool over the pin and turn the handle clockwise to push it down and into the chain, closing the chain into a circle around the gears and chain ring.

    • 4

      Spin the pedals to move the chain around the gears and drive train. Shift through all the gears to loosen the new chain and link pin.