Road Bike Chain Types

Bicycle chains are generally categorized into two types.

Road bike chain types. Derailleur bike chains are designed to be moved from sprocket to sprocket and come in many different design standards. Bike chain selection is firstly decided based upon the speed of the chain. A number of different chain widths are available to suit specific bike types such as bmx or to fit different road and mtb drivetrains e g. If it s difficult to clean out the mud and other debris your chains are likely to rust out sooner and have a shorter lifespan.

Number 1 2 1 8 chain is used for simple transmission without speed shifting. Some bicycle chain lubes will only work if applied to a clean degreased dry chain read the instructions on the oil to check. The first number 1 2 is the chain pitch. An 11 speed chain for example is narrower than a 9 speed chain as the sprockets on the 11 speed cassette have a narrower spacing between them.

Look for chains with special coating or that are easy to clean. A classic road racing bike for example may use a 53t large chainring while a bike more aimed at leisure and sportive riding may use a 50t large chainring as part of a hill friendly compact chainset. When selecting a chain the first consideration is the number of rear sprockets. To learn more about how we use cookies read our privacy policy.

Lightweight road bike chain. The most common bike types are road mountain and bmx. Most modern road bikes feature a dual ring set up with a front mech being responsible for shifting duties. This is because it determines the width of the chain.

Each has its own pros and cons and intended use which. Click i agree or any link to accept these cookies. Types of chain lube there are many different types of bicycle specific lubes including wet lubes dry lubes ceramic lubes and wax lubes. Check out our how to.

The type of chain you need will depend on the type of bike you are riding. Chain lubricants will work on all types of bicycle including road mountain and commuter bikes. An 11 speed cassette requires a different chain to a 9 speed one the chain must be thinner in order to fit into the narrower spaces between the sprockets. This website uses cookies to improve your user experience.

The latter numbers 1 8 and 3 32 respectively indicate the inner width in inches. It has the same construction as standard roller chain. Clean your chain in 5 easy steps articles for some quick simple tips. Providing excellent rust protection and making bicycle maintenance all the easier finish line have produced a fantastically effective bike chain lubricant for occasional users and bikes that have been placed in storage for a long time.