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forum
Lengthening a chain - foolish?
Hi guys,
I recently replaced my chain with a clarks 9 speed, but after my ride to work this morning I've concluded that I've cut it too short by about two links.
Is it wise to lengthen the chain by adding in two links from the bit I took off? Or should I just bite the bullet and buy another one?
I've read that I could be risking breaking the chain on a ride and causing all sorts of misery.
If you're new please join in and if you have questions pop them below and the forum regulars will answer as best we can.
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6 comments
Yes, I was going to suggest adding two quicklinks and a short length of chain. How can it go wrong?
You can't re-use a link that's been joined with a pin, as it will have been expanded ever so slightly. Campag says you must not rejoin a chain or you'll die, basically, just use a quicklink if you have to redo it.
A quick search on google will teach you how to measure a chain for your setup
I'd just go for a new one on a 9 speed as they are pretty inexpensive
I did much the same and now have two quick links in my chain, it's been fine !
Go on be a devil.... I'd risk it for the sake of rejoining a bit.
I was always told to do the absolute minimum that you have to, to a chain. You've mucked about with it once by shortening to fit; I wouldn't muck about with it again except in an emergency situation.
For the price of a 9 speed chain, replace. Having a chain break on the road, potentially very bad.
Note the number of links on the old chain, measure, stick on ebay as "new - other" with explanation. Someone will buy it, if you're trying to save the pennies.