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How to fix a broken bike chain?

Laura Easterbrook • Dec 04, 2021

What Will you need to fix a broken bike chain?

Fixing a bike chain is going to be a dirty job, I would always recommend having some rubber gloves and wet wipes with you at all times when out on the bike as the oil on the chain is hard to wash off and can ruin your clothes. If you don't and really do not want to get covered in oil we can help or simply lock up your bike and return ready for the job.


While this job can be done with a hammer and pliers we really wouldn't recommend it, make sure you have a chain tool like the one pictured below.

Bike chain repair tool

How to fix the broken bike chain?

Put the bike on its back, resting on the seat and handlebars so you can more inspect the chain more easily.


Find the area where the damage is, hopefully you will notice this before the chain snaps but should the bike chain snap at least its very easy to find where the damaged links will be!


You will need to remove the broken links using the chain tool by pushing out the pin that holds the link together, we would fully recommend removing the 2 links as the chain segments alternate and this will make repair far easier.


TOP TIP

Make sure not to push the pin all the way out, pushing the pin just far enough so the chain can come apart means it will be much easier to push it back together later, plus the pins are very easy to lose should you push them all the way out!


Now it is time to add re-join the chain links together, line them up and simply use the tool to push the pin back through the links, make doubly sure they are lined up and it should not require too much force.


We found a really helpful video that goes through each of these steps, If you are stuck and in need of a bike repair and have a chain tool with you try and follow these steps.

If you are unsure about fixing your bike yourself, don't have the tools or simply got caught short while out on a ride and need a fix to get back home, give us a call on 07887605349 or send us a message on our Facebook page.


If it is not an emergency you can always simply use the form below.


Happy cycling!

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