Chain length

[urbanspaceman]

Hi. I am hoping to get some advice.

I've set up a Dura Ace chain following the big chainring + largest cassette + 2 links method; however I'm scared it looks like it's overly stretching the rear mech once I'm in large and large (I appreciate that it's a ratio to avoid but I'm worried about causing damage to the rear mech if I accidentally find myself there in the heat of the moment).

I've attached a photo in the hope someone can advise.

Cheers

[ryanw]

That is about 2 seconds from ripping your rear mech off...

Needs 2 links in if not more.

[alcatraz]

I think you did a mistake and added 0 links.

First you find the closest inner plate link and align it with the open rivet, then you add 2 links.

This works for smaller cassettes but I prefer checking both small small and big big before I cut the chain.

[urbanspaceman]

That is about 2 seconds from ripping your rear mech off...

Needs 2 links in if not more.

Gah, I thought so. Thanks for replying.

So how's this for a plan to remedy: I break the "missing link" (and presumably throw away as like KMC they are not meant to be reused???), and then add a spare link or 2 rejoining to the existing chain with new "missing links" either side. Would that do me?

[VTR1000SP2]

I’d use a chain pin where you’re adding and then reuse the master link.


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[mattr]

Two new missing links will be fine.
If it's a shimano chain, you could also use the (provided?) oversize pin. Or use two of them, or one link and one pin. Any combination should be ok as long as they are fitted properly.

If it's not a shimano chain, do not use a pin to rejoin it.

[VTR1000SP2]

OP indicates it’s a DA chain

[mattr]

Yes, missed that. Sorry.

[ryanw]

I reuse my quick-links about 100x over. Never had one fail with 1,800w sprints going through them...

Personally, I'd buy a new chain (£30) and keep this one as a spare / for use with smaller cassette.

[ryanw]

You also have the chain on the wrong way around!

The lettering on DA chains should be on the outside

[ooo]

Quick link arrow is in the wrong direction on photo, but if you flip the chain like ryanw suggested it will be in correct direction.

Use online chain calculator (exact chainstay length needed)

Also, there is updated chain length manual from Shimano:

[Jugi]

I reuse my quick-links about 100x over. Never had one fail with 1,800w sprints going through them...

During last summer one quick-link disintegrated into my hands when taking the chain of the bike. The pins just fell off the sideplates. It held up during riding just fine. I don’t understand how the manufacturers have come up with the ”do not re-use” suggestion.

[mattr]

I don’t understand how the manufacturers have come up with the ”do not re-use” suggestion.

because the links do have a finite life, just like bolts. But keeping track of it in anything else other than something like aerospace is all but impossible. So instead of saying 5 or 10 or 12 uses. Which no one will be able to track accurately. They say chuck after one use. Lots of bolts in cars are the same. Rather than setting up a system to track how many times a bolt in the suspension has been touched/adjusted (incredibly expensive). They supply a new one with the part. Or provide a compete kit. (Which is cheap to do)

[urbanspaceman]

I love you lot. Thanks a million

[urbanspaceman]

DOUBLE POST SORRY