Mountain biking is a fun and exhilarating outdoor activity, but even the most experienced riders can encounter some common problems while riding. One of these is a chain falling off. Chains can come off for a variety of reasons, including improper maintenance, shifting problems, or even some technical difficulties. This can be frustrating, as it slows you down and can even cause injuries if you are not careful. However, the great news is that you don’t need to be a professional mechanic to put a chain back on a mountain bike. In this article, we will walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to easily put a chain back on your mountain bike.
First, we will cover the tools you will need to perform this task. Then, we will guide you through the steps to put your chain back on, including releasing the tension on the derailleur, re-positioning the chain, as well as ensuring everything is back in order. With this information, you will be able to get your bike up and running again in no time, allowing you to get back to the fun part of your ride. Let’s dive in!
Tools You Will Need for the Job
To put a chain back on a mountain bike, you will need some basic tools. The necessary tools include a chain tool, a pair of pliers, and a 5mm Allen wrench. A chain tool is essential for fixing a broken chain or resizing your chain. With it, you can remove damaged or unusable links and adjust the length of your chain to fit your bike.
A pair of pliers comes in handy when fixing bent chain links, adjusting limit screws or derailleurs. To access some parts of the bike, you need a 5mm Allen wrench, which comes in most bike repair kits. It is used to tighten or loosen bolts and screws. Always ensure you have the right tools for the job to prevent causing any further damage to your bike.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Remove the Chain from Your Mountain Bike
Before learning how to put a chain back on a mountain bike, it’s essential to know how to remove it first. Removing the chain from a mountain bike may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
First, shift gears. Shift the gear to the smallest chainring at the front and the smallest cog at the back. This makes it easier to remove the chain. Next, break the chain. You can use a chain breaker tool to remove the chain easily. Position the chain breaker tool on the chain’s rivet and turn the handle until the rivet pops out. Finally, remove the chain. Once the rivet has been popped out, you can remove the chain from the bike. Store the chain safely, and proceed to fix your bike or replace the chain.
How to Inspect Your Chain for Wear and Tear
Inspecting your chain for wear and tear is an essential step before attempting to put it back on your mountain bike. It’s important to determine the condition of your bike’s chain to avoid potential accidents while you’re riding through rough terrains.
Firstly, you need to visually inspect your chain for signs of damage and wear. Check for rust, damage, or cracks on the links, and bent or distorted parts on the chain. Secondly, inspect the length of the chain for elongation. Check the bottom of the chain near the rear derailleur pulley to gauge the amount of wear. If the distance is more than one inch, then it’s likely that your chain needs to be replaced. By ensuring that your chain is not too worn or damaged, you can ride your mountain bike with confidence and ease.
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Correctly Aligning Your Chain for Re-Attachment
Correctly aligning your chain for re-attachment is a crucial step in putting a chain back on a mountain bike. Before you start, inspect the chain and ensure that it is clean with no twists or kinks. Place the chain over the gears and cassette and set it in the lowest gear. Make sure the chain is not tangled or caught on anything and is free to move.
Next, correctly align the chain with the derailleur. With the bike flipped over, gently move the rear wheel to align the chain with the derailleur. Ensure the rear wheel is straight, the chain is properly tensioned, and aligns with the derailleur pulley wheels. Once you are happy with the alignment, you can begin re-threading the quick link connector or reattaching the chain’s ends with a chain tool. Remember to pull the chain tight as you reattach the link to avoid any slack. Proper alignment ensures smoother gear changes and prevents the chain from slipping.
Safely Re-Attaching the Chain on Your Mountain Bike
Once you have separated the chain from the derailleur and the cog, it’s important to reattach it safely. Begin by holding the chain in your hands and aligning its ends properly. Make sure the joining link is facing towards the rear of the bike. Now, slide the joining link into the space in between the chain ends, then push it down until you hear a snap to indicate it’s secured in place.
After you’ve snapped the joining link, use your hands to move the pedals through several rotations to ensure that the chain is running smoothly and doesn’t get jammed. If everything looks good, shift the gears multiple times and try out the brakes to ensure there are no issues with the chain’s movement. Once you’re confident that the chain has been safely re-attached, you’re ready to get back out on the trails!
Properly Adjusting the Chain Tension
Proper chain tension is essential for a smooth and efficient ride on your mountain bike. To adjust the tension and avoid the chain slipping off again, start by checking the chain’s sag. Place the bike in a work stand or lean it against a wall, and shift the chain onto the smallest sprocket in the rear and the smallest chainring in the front. Then, use your fingers to pull up on the chain at its midpoint between the two gears. The chain should lift about 1-2 inches. If it lifts more, it’s too loose, and if it doesn’t lift as much, it’s too tight.
To adjust the tension, locate the rear derailleur’s barrel adjuster. Turn it one way or the other until the chain’s sag is within the 1-2 inch range. Keep testing your adjustments until you’re satisfied with the sag. Once you’re done, shift through all gears in both the front and rear, and check if the chain goes through them smoothly without skipping. Make sure that you’ve checked the tension of the chain, and made all necessary adjustments before you start riding again.
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Tips to Prevent Chain Issues in the Future
Preventing chain issues is key to ensuring that your mountain bike continues to function properly and safely. There are several tips you can follow to prevent chain issues in the future.
Firstly, make sure that you keep your chain clean and lubricated. Dirt and debris can build up on the chain, causing it to malfunction. Regularly cleaning and lubricating the chain will help to prevent this from happening. Additionally, it’s important to regularly check the tension of the chain. A loose chain can easily slip off the gears, so make sure to keep the chain at the appropriate tension. Finally, be gentle when shifting gears. Rapid shifting can put extra strain on the chain and cause it to wear out faster, so shift smoothly and deliberately to prolong the life of your chain. By following these tips, you can help prevent chain issues and keep your mountain bike running smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Putting a chain back on a mountain bike may seem frustrating, but with the right tools and technique, it can be an easy fix. Remember to always carry a chain tool and spare quick links with you while you ride. If your chain comes off while on the trail, first, find a safe place to stop. Then, take a look at the chain to see if any links are damaged. Use your chain tool to break the chain and reattach it to the quick link. Make sure to spin the pedals a few times to check that the chain is securely in place.
In conclusion, knowing how to put a chain back on a mountain bike is an essential skill for every rider. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can confidently fix your chain when it comes off on the trail. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to quickly get back on your bike and continue enjoying your ride.