How to Size a Bicycle Chain

[@wadebesack4393]

If there were awards for KZbin videos, Park Tool would win hands down in the "How-To" category. They are clean, consistent, professional, clearly scripted, well organized, step-by-step...I could go on and on. Excellent way to promote the purchase of high-end tools and ensure happy customers after the sale, having empowered them to do the job right. If I owned a bike shop and hired a new mechanic or had an employee wanting to transition into that position, I would point them to the Park Tool channel and say "watch every video, then we'll let you start touching the bikes". Great as usual.

[@borrisjung8049]

One of the best part is PT is making you aware of possible mistakes and exeptions, I like that a lot!

[@abu1950]

@@borrisjung8049 Their tools are super awesome too, does anyone know where to get the tool hanger

[@HardwareUnknown]

You took the words, every single one, right out of my mouth. From making me want to purchase their tools to support them, to using this as a reference for new hires, Park Tool nails it each time.

[@micromadnessman]

There's a big brand bike shop near my house, and the mechanics have PC screens behind the bench. I looked back there one day...all park tool tutorial videos. Even great for professionals to get a clear and quick reminder.

[@joshdonley2842]

Calvin has always sounded a bit patronising to me.

[@BillSmithPerson]

Be sure to mark the rivet you want to remove with a Park Tool blue marker.

[@loomspace]

The Park Tool blue marker is available at local bike shops for $49.95.

[@AndyTychon]

@@loomspacethat’s when it’s on special….🤣

[@jm_sc]

​@@loomspacexD

[@Braindead19442]

As a total beginner I have watched many KZbin videos. I have to say that your site is the most uderstandable site to watch. You use simple, easy and precise language, without all the unnecessary waffle that I see on many other videos. Thank you for a site that I can understand and follow with ease.

[@redrocker1055]

Park Tools are expensive, I get it. But everyone should try to purchase at least one item from them to show appreciation for the knowledge they share we these videos. Park Tools and RJ The Bike guy are the two quintessential KZbin channels every cyclist should follow.

[@HardwareUnknown]

Calvin is this best bike service teacher I've found on KZbin. I've nearly finished replacing my entire drivetrain for the first time from his videos. Others have said it before; this is the kind of value added benefit that a company can do to make me want to support them by buying their products. Granted it would be one thing if the tools were awful, but Park Tool stuff has consistently held up much better than cheap alternatives. For the premium, I'll take the better tools and support the consistently professional videos. Thanks Calvin and Park Tool!

[@johnhenrick2298]

I note the 563 down votes and I wonder why. Are those down voters more knowledgeable or better mechanics than Calvin? He makes excellent videos, the very best! I appreciate his clear, concise instructions.

[@mindfever6285]

this guy is such a boss

[@AndrewBlucher]

Calvin

[@thomashardbattle4287]

Calvin is the man

[@escapegoat32]

He is the boss

[@timmusk9939]

He knows what he's doing he's been riding since he was two years old

[@Jacobligg]

Calvin is a boss he works for Park tool

[@David..]

See you in a few months when I forget this shit again for the millionth time.

[@tadas6053]

my thought exactly :D

[@scrtchmrk4958]

You're not alone

[@wallaberto]

Welcome back, good to see you again :D

[@friskiii1]

@@scrtchmrk4958 iii

[@newboysgeneration6198]

Hhhh Tottaly honest and true😄😄

[@lumpythefish]

Honestly... the single best How-To vid I've ever seen on You-tube. Kudos to everyone who worked on this gem.

[@masaharumorimoto4761]

THANK YOU! Just completed my 1st sizing a new chain, delinked 5 links and it was a complete success :) Chain looks perfectly sized now and no more loosy-goosy :)

[@MichelOcampo]

this video wasnt really what I was looking for because I was searching for the wrong thing BUT I must accept that I watched the whole video just because of the good quality of it, I was suprised of how well explained it was, highlighting and showing examples of your explanation, just perfect! I wish there was more channels (tutorials) in youtube like yours. well done sir

[@reggier2343]

This really helped me. First time replacing a chain. Tiagra 10s. Before I watched THIS video, i watched another video and I didn't pay attention to the details. I opened my new chain wrapped it around the sprocket and the cassette put the pin in and linked the new chain. Couldn't figure out why the chain was so loose. LOL So realizing my dumbness, and that I couldn't reuse that pin, I ordered a set of pins. In the meantime I found your channel. I watched the chain install and chain resizing 5 times each. Resized the chain, installed the new pin. Everything is good. Going to watch the videos on rear-derailleur adjustments and then ill hit the road. You guys also showed me that my brand of bike tools where trash.

[@1974kenm]

Thank you. These videos are incredibly helpful when I go to do maintenance/repair and the technology changes. Also, I started acquiring tools from Park when I was working in bike shops in HS and college. Now in my 40s, they still work great, still have warranty, and have been worth every penny.

[@tonydeady3413]

This is the best video on chain sizing! Clear and precise instructions and explanation. I watched about six videos before this one and they all left me more confused than when I started. From one teacher to another, thanks!

[@trekimpossible2850]

My road bike has Shimano system. I followed the instructions, especially the way 4:02 for chain sizing, to replace the chain myself. Went out to ride for 40 miles with 2000 feet elevation gain, no problem. Thx for the tutorial.

[@manutara2007]

As a teacher, these videos are educational 100%. They think in all possible questions a learner would ask...and of course they give you the answer.

[@tomaskotulek7179]

Great video! After days of reading of "how to size the chain" I'm finally able to do it by myself without a fear of doing something wrongly. Thank you.

[@bakedpotato8602]

Thank you so much Mr. Calvin Jones and to the park tool team! You've helped me so much to the point I'm capable of being able to independently service my bicycle! Thanks to your wide array of impeecable video guides, I was able to get a blown inner tube replaced when I was at least 10km away from the nearest bicycle shop! Another incident, I was able to cruise back home with a bent derailleur hanger from a crash, by readjust my derailleur indexing and limits! Besides, I just got my bicycle chain resized to have less chain slap and probably reduced 10 grams of chain's weight! After learning how to correctly cut and size the chain here 😊😊

[@celticwinter]

If people want to know how to make good "how to" videos, they should look at this series. Cutting, illustration, guidance and explanation. Just excellent.

[@virkelie2]

What I like about these Park Tool videos and Calvin Jones is that the repair videos are very clear and specific. For instance other videos also say to add 2 links in sizing a chain; - but are unclear how to count a link. Calvin Jones is very specific and clear, so that you don't need to guess how to count 2 links.

[@MrJadiin]

Look if you're not spending 10 minutes swearing out loud trying to break the masterlink by hand are you even really trying to be a DIY bike mechanic?

[@joekelly3849]

Like John Doe’s comment. Back in Limerick, we used to break chain by lying the bike flat on the ground. Put the chain over a net and hammer the rivet out with a steel nail hammer and skinned knuckles.

[@joekelly3849]

J

[@joekelly3849]

John Doe ✊

[@lmullen06]

It’s actually really easy by hand, can be done in about 5 seconds by just pinching master link plates together before the usual first step, there are some videos out there on this method. Calvin and these Park Tools videos are pretty much the best out there but I was surprised this method wasn’t mentioned.

[@SsomebodyTookMyName]

@@lmullen06 I think it depends upon your master link, some are designed to be reusable/removable and others are effectively single use (the latter clip together securely) The link that shipped with the Shimano chains I've bought recently have been noted as non-removable on the packaging

[@unitedeurope8614]

The guy is just great. Just focused on the relevant stuff. No unnecessary talk. I only watch park tool videos - and then buy their tools :-)

[@backpacker3421]

Calvin, I didn't watch this video, because you've already taught me to do this several times over. But I did want to drop a note to thank you for YEARS of teaching me how fix bikes. The Big Blue Book was where I learned first. I still have a copy that is in such bad shape I don't know if can ever use it again. It's seen beyond dog-eared... All the KZbin videos have been a blessing as well. Nearly everything I know has either been from you or from mistakes I made because I forgot lessons you taught. THANK YOU. Have a wonderful 2019!!!

[@DJKLIBRA]

Thanks to the people of park tool I had no issues replacing my chain after my old one snapped in two yesterday. Threw it in the bin at the side of the road so had no comparison for my new chain. Very calm and clear instruction. Measure twice, cut once. Instant succes. Thank you Park Tool! By the way, your chain cleaner device also works like a charm, so as your Alan keys. Quality guaranteed with Park Tool. Greetings from a very satisfied customer.

[@Aaron40117]

Brilliant, Best video on the subject currently on youtube. thanks guys

[@davidbee8178]

EASILY the best tutorials available on KZbin ! Thanks Calvin and Park Tool teaching colleagues !

[@Mindaugas_7]

after washing this :D I will try to repair my bicycle for sure. It rested 2 years in the cellar but now it won't. Wish me luck :D

[@dustinsupencheck]

Did you fix it?!?!!?

[@KnightMirkoYo]

Dude, don't be lazy. Fix it up, go out and ride!

[@AbdullahKhan-se1xz]

Did you fix it?????

[@Adamas_83]

Recently bought a Hightower for my son off Pinkbike with a chain that was too long. This video (and owning the MLP-1 and CL-3) made easy work of it. Thanks!

[@righteousone8454]

Thanks, Calvin You have educated me quite a "BIT" now, from changing cassettes, to sizing chains. I really appreciate your videos, good Sir Cheers

[@richarde1355]

I love the subtle use of the blue “Park Tool blue” Sharpie to mark the reference link. Yet another super quality Park Tool video!

[@kevinhornbuckle]

I just got my ParkTool chain tool from a bike shop in downtown Eugene, Oregon. Now I know how to use it.

[@skpn83]

I repair my road and mtb always at my own, but if i am not sure about something, i watch Calvin 😎. Better than any teacher.

[@nukenomad6503]

My last chain had way too much sag so I went with the largest cog, largest chainring method on my shimano XTR 1x11 full suspension and like magic, my chain was the perfect length, no sag. Thanks for the expert advice.

[@harjak999]

Did you add the 2 or 4 extra chain links?

[@Synysterjmz]

I did the same upgrade and ended up with a chain that was too short. 4 rivets just about works for a medium cage derailleur, but still seems a tad too short.

[@neytiritetskahamoatite7688]

1:12 This means at least 122 chains links on my frame, and you don't find 122 chain links on the market ! You find mostly 118 !!! (extremely rare) Regularly 114 ! So i FK-ing need to compose 2 chains !!! luckily for u (or not , hahahaah) I know how, without spending any consumable bolt, but just reusing a chain link, making it working again with a hammer and a rock 😊😁😉

[@Na-Vse-Ruki-Master-1872]

All Park Tool videos are amazing. Agree that they deserve the "Best Bicycle maintenance " vidoes on the internet award 😊😊👍👍

[@SkidinDingo]

i've seen people use boot lace or 550 paracord to break masterlinks, too.

[@joekelly3849]

Couldn’t be more cogently explained😎

[@JJ-ws3zn]

Just use your fingernails. Always works for me, I saved however it was for the tool

[@robivlahov]

Copper wire works well to :)

[@johnnyboy4711]

great video,is it possible to have same chain length working on a rear 11-36 and 11-42,if i am trying to get two wheelsets to play nice?

[@Joozt112]

Riveting stuff!

[@ev-ezaye3580]

Love the pun!

[@byefromalgeria2960]

*I always say it... This is the best channel in KZbin history🙏*

[@myshihtzudontstink]

Great video. I just watched this as I was doing mine. Got me through it without any confusion and my chain is right on! Went from a 11-23 to a 11-26 so using my old length wasn’t an option.

[@fhowland]

The Park master link pliers is one of the best tools I’ve ever bought. Don’t know how I lived without it.

[@raulespinoza5819]

I have the IceToolz 62d3 master link, works flawlessly (for closing and opening links)

[@peser71]

Best video i wached about how to size a chain. I am now a new subscriber

[@brandonl5653]

You explained it so much clearer than other video(especially the part where to cut the new chain). No more confusion after watching this. Thank you much for this video 👍 👏

Fabulous video!! Clear, concise with excellent tips and close-ups.

[@PeterAndrewH]

I've been panicking about installing a new SRAM groupset for fear of sizing and breaking the chain incorrectly, this gentleman (Calvin) just nails it for clear concise instructions. Now I feel confident about giving it a go. Thanks.

[@Synysterjmz]

Pfft, I was in the same boat upgrading from an 8 speed BoxFour to a Shimano 11 speed groupset on my Vitus Nucleus. If, like me, you follow this guide, you'll end up with a chain that's too short. As far as I can tell, sizing a chain is complete guesswork.

[@jesseblack6083]

Calvin your videos are awesome! Very clear and concise. Thanks brother!

[@scottsprojects658]

4:00 Sizing: Largest COG & Largest Chaining Method is what I needed. Thank you!

[@petecurran3995]

Excellent vid - all bases covered! Thanks Calvin! 👍

[@adamscotera2378]

Thank you! I didn't have an old chain to compare and had no idea how to proceed, but watching this once made it clear. Much obliged!

[@adriansue8955]

Regarding the 1X drivetrain. Your example stated SRAM - add 2 full links (4 rivets). Is 1X for Shimano different?

[@tomasstach1162]

I need anwer for that too

[@Mekhanic1]

SRAM has larger wheels on the derailleur. You could try 2 rivets or 1 full link on SHIMANO

[@parktool]

In shimano's instructions they say to add 2 inks(1 inch) just like in a 2x or 3x.

[@sloemost5809]

Park Tool - does that (Shimano instruction - 2 links / 1 inch) mean 3/4 rivets? Again, same question as above - Shimano 1 x. Thanks.

[@Saxtoo]

Calvin, my 1980 Raleigh racer started jumping its chain in 1st gear. Chain was factory fitted. I split a link, removed it, added a master link in place, then measured it using your system. I know your method works as I have already used it on other bikes. So, when I measured my racer's chain, I found it was fitted 2 links too long. This is crazy, since it's a factory mistake. And Raleigh built it, in Halesowen, Birmingham, UK.

[@Aquietas01]

Thanks for a great video. Quick clarification question, regarding full suspension bikes, when you say "use the same system" does that mean that for sram 11/12 speed on full sus you add 2 rivets, or will you add 4 rivets as per the previous hardtail installation of the sram chain?

[@tytanbiker5225]

... quiTe confusing ... sram 11 and 12 speed sysTem on hardTail seT up should add 4 riveTs while on full suspension seT up wiTh The suspension fully compressed should only add 2 riveTs ?..

[@agustinc6102]

@@tytanbiker5225 yeah because the chain line is lengthened when the suspension is compressed, so that lengthening already accounts for the 2 extra rivets on hardtail.

[@serendipityrecordco9380]

I have a Deore mullet groupset inbound to throw on my son’s 24” bike. I’ve only ever sized chains based off the old ones so this was the right information at the right time. 👍

[@jeffscomp]

good video. I was able to resize a new chain using the old chain and the video guide :)

[@tomaburque]

This channel comes in very handy from time to time.

[@rossross5620]

Just perfect as all the video tha you make thank's a lot for sharing it really worth a lot to me at to many other people My best wishes for the future :-)

[@gsxrinfrance5827]

Learned so much from you guys at Park Tool, serviced /replaced front and rear wheel bearings, replaced gear cables, cassette remove and clean, chain replacement plus adjusting front and rear derailleur. ...your videos are appreciated, Thank you....

[@Theclaw17]

Thanks for the video explanation, excellent!

[@Itsshowtimecheer]

I hope my bike shop follows this guy on KZbin.

[@medawc519]

I disagree that replacement chains are ALWAYS longer, than we need. Typical off the shelf chains are 114 or 116 links long. In my touring bike I have pretty standard 48-26-26 triple crankset with 11-34 cassette and pretty long chainstays - 460mm. That configuration requires exactly 116 links of chain, so no cutting needed. Actually I need to be careful not to buy the too short, 114 links version.

[@parktool]

Good point. There are exceptions to every rule, including this one.

[@markholm7050]

Same situation on my wife’s bike.

[@Me_ThatsWho]

Mark Holm well, we all know about her !

[@alfwilliams5446]

Did the big-big and add two rivets technique and it all worked really well. Thank you.

[@abedfo88]

I tried to use one of those calculation algorithms but it was waaaaaay out

[@hamleyn]

Likewise, my chain ended up way too short. Will definitely be using the largest chainring-largest cog method next time

[@robertp7209]

Calvin is the best😁. I’m refitting my 1996 Kestrel with R8000 Ultegra and even though the DM manuals on Shimano’s website are good, still need to come here.

[@idezilla]

Thanks, great info!

[@mansserneke7156]

Masterpieces of instructional videos with this guy. And modest pushing of the brands own products. Whatever his salary is - increase it!

[@Durwood71]

I just replaced a worn chain and instinctively used my old chain as the reference, but this is good information if I ever need to replace my chain and don't have the original to compare it with.

[@mantasriauka1035]

Thank you so much! I am new to the bike maintenance world, and lately I was having my new chain slipping on an old bike. I changed the shifting cable, rear derailleur, I straightened my bent derailleur hanger (it was bent to the point that the derailleur touched the spokes while on the biggest gear), washed the chain, re-lubed it, changed both front and rear sprocket, adjusted the derailleur multiple times (it worked fine before, silent gear shifting when coasting) - it didn't work. Then I thought maybe I should actually size the chain -> I removed about ~6 rivet-lengths -> it worked! I feel kinda stupid now, but those upgrades were cheap and I like to learn so in the end it was fine.

[@daztastic147]

I’ve mentioned on numerous videos that so many people tell you what length the chain must be, the number of extra links etc etc, but I’ve yet to see a video that explains the reasoning for this and the effects of an ‘incorrectly sized’ chain (if there is such a thing). It leads me to think no one really knows the reasoning or effects but just repeats what they’ve been shown over the years. I’ve changed from a 36T to a 42T using the same chain and have yet to see any ill-effects.

[@tatangsm09]

It becomes easier after having such explation above, especially for 1x12 speed bike with rear suspension. Thanks alot.

[@benaya6]

Calvin Jones re-defines professionalism. amazing.

[@persiathiest1963]

This is an example of hight quality presentation. I love the way details are visualized at @5:16.

[@gregdonnelly7228]

Thank you thank you thank you! Broke and lost original chain on my MTB. Really want to get this right. The instructions are very thorough

[@Nithael_]

This guy Calvin Jones is incredible…such a wealth of clear, concise knowledge. Thanks Calvin!

[@Jump-n-smash]

These videos are SO GOOD. I'm a park tool fan now.

[@MultiVde]

Thank you Calvin, I've successfully changed my chain and crank thanks to your tutorials.

[@towhee7472]

Totally gonna start buying Park Tools, just because of these amazing videos. These instructions save me tons of money.

[@endurotruckererniedesjardins]

31 years wrenching bikes. This is the very best video ive ever seen regrading chain sizing. Good job park tool. Funny thing... i got park tools much older then most people watching this lol.

[@markfl112]

After watching this video, I realise my derailer was not adjusted properly, and my chain was too long. It has transformed my bike. Never shifted like this before. Unfortunately, I just trusted the bike shop to do it right🤦‍♂️. Took a couple links out and adjusted my B tension screw and is shifting amazing now. 👍

[@TurkeyManIndustriesLLC]

I love these videos. A wealth of knowledge surrounding bicycles. And as far as learning how to maintain something goes, bicycles are at the top of the list. One of the coolest inventions of all time.

[@spikethebiologist]

Great video - I use this as a reminder every time I swap chains

[@BMH1965]

One of the best instructional videos I have seen on KZbin or anywhere else - clear view of area and clear instructions, and with variations to standard systems.

[@Benjamin-iu9iu]

Thanks so much, I had a feeling my chain was incorrectly sized. This video gave me the confidence to get the tools and do the job. Unfortunately I paid a mechanic to install my chain and rear cassette a while ago, I wish I did it myself now.

[@haubitze]

Why has this video only 3 mil views until now??? This is brilliant!

[@rakhit]

I just started getting into MTB recently. I'm an aerospace engineer by trade so naturally, I decided to learn to repair and build my own MTB's. So as all good engineers I set off to educate myself. One search and I landed on my first Park Tool video. Long story short all tools I've bought thus far are Park Tools. Aside from the fact that Park has (in my humble opinion) some of thee best "How To" videos on bike repairs her eon KZbin I am thoroughly convinced that they are embedding subliminal messages in their videos to Like and Share their videos, and then ultimately buy their tools. I haven't personally conducted any detective work on this, I simply have admitted defeat and agree that this guy in the video rocks and they can take my money in exchange for their free, highly intuitive videos and kick-ass tools.

[@cristiantatar5638]

As an Aerospace Engineer and MTB enthusiast myself, I can atest that every word you said is true ! :D

[@MrSchattka]

Followed the recipe for a 1x12 drive train. It worked well. Thanks Park Tool for this content.

[@mvp_kryptonite]

Nice! Looking to change to 11-34 11 speed with R7000 GS and 50 front chainring and this will be handy for the new chain too

[@insanebmxthomas]

This was way better than I expected. Much expertise

[@64chrisg]

these service videos from Park Tools are awesome. very helpful

[@bobhumphreys4494]

Thank you!!! Well done especially for us not so familiar with these people powered bikes. Trying to set up new bike for handicapped adult daughter. Others were stolen just struggling with chain

[@brandonhoffman4712]

Cool info! I think its time to resize my chain. Bike came free, the old chain sized exactly to the new KMC one i got. I think i might be running long, theres slack on my small cogs.

[@shinrips]

I was wondering, is it possible to take off links, connect with quick link and use your bike like that. Then, later on, change cassette and and add some links using a quick link or the connector thing that you break off? I love my immaculate Titus Modena but the 53/39 up front is killing my 56 year old legs. First, I plan to change to 50/34 chainrings. Later, I plan to change cassette to 11-30 and change rear derailleur but frugal me wants to keep the same chain.

[@neytiritetskahamoatite7688]

2:50 Seee I don't pull out the rivet completely, and thats how I link 2 chains !!! And then, without spending any consumable rivet, but just reusing a chain connected rivet, making it working again with a hammer and a rock 😊😁😉

[@kaigronlund8217]

Park tool videos are indeed great! One note on this video however! Make sure you watch it ALL they way before cutting. I was just about to cut, but fortunately decided to watch the video all the way through. There are a number of exceptions, which are mentioned only at the end. Most notably full sus and hardtails with SRAM 11/12 spd.

[@davidproctor7112]

The clearest of the clear. Many thanks for this.

[@martinschneider4]

Very good explanation! Especially the inserted coloured arrows were helpful. Now I am no longer concerned to size my new chain. Thank you!

[@unluckymercenary9315]

at 5:09 when you said '' Note that we bypass the rear derailleur altogether, and extra length will be added to account for this later'' when do you exactly show/explain it?

[@Drt0Kkdo]

Would the rivet number be different for a short, medium and long cage RD?

[@96gts]

These videos are a master class in how to do a good instructional video. Keep them coming!

[@Durwood71]

Also a master class in how to service your bike!

[@robinhughes1749]

Thanks so much!!! I actually have a single blue raceface chain ring with SRAM 11 speed cassette on my fat bike... without knowing about those two extra rivets I would have been a sad boy!

[@Cuplex1]

Excellent, thank you. I didnt imagine that it would be so easy and straight forward, after contemplating if the number of links used is an easily derived number, som sort of lookup tables or common knowledge to everyone in the business of replacing chains. 🙂 And not to the average schmuck.

[@TomMSTie1138]

Thank you, Park Tool! I'll never worry about the size of my chain again!