How to fit a road bike chain?

Fitting a chain is not necessarily very complicated — you just need to know a few tricks.

Time: 20 min
Level: Easy
Tools: Chain tool (compatible with your chain) | Quick-link removal pliers (if the chain has one)

Place the chain on the smallest sprocket and the smallest chainring then disengage it from the crankset so that it is slack.
Open the chain using the chain tool or the quick-link pliers depending on the chain you have. Then remove it from the bike.
Use the old chain as a template to cut the new chain to the correct length. In the case of a new installation, route the chain over the largest chainring and the largest sprocket without going through the derailleur, close the loop as short as possible and add 2 links (1 inner + 1 outer).
Refit the chain onto your drivetrain, following the correct routing through the derailleurs and ensuring that the stamped side of the chain faces outward.
For a Sram chain, fit the quick-link. For a Shimano chain, rivet the chain using the pin supplied with it, then snap off the protruding part using pliers.
Probikeshop tip: If the riveting has created a stiff link, "massage" the chain to remove it.

The chain is now fitted; you can test the smoothness of the gear changes and if necessary fine-tune the derailleur adjustment.

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