How to properly remove a chain from a bicycle. Replacing a Loose Chain

Bracelets, beads, necklaces, pendants - the assembly of these types of jewelry, in most cases, ends with the installation of a fastener. For beginner craftswomen, the question often arises, which fastener to choose when creating a particular piece of jewelry. After all, there are quite a few types of fasteners. This article is about . It provides a classification of clasps, tells in what cases and how they are used, provides photographs of jewelry with different clasps.

Clasps/clasps are a type of accessories for jewelry used for fastening bracelets, beads, necklaces, pendants. Fasteners vary in size from very tiny (only 5-6 mm wide) to very large (more than 4 cm).

Most of the clasps have one-piece eyelets, to attach the clasp to the jewelry, you may need connecting rings and trailers (photo 1). For some clasps, the eyelet can be detachable, so that the clasp can be directly attached to the end or chain on which the jewelry is assembled (photo 2). You can also do without connecting rings when using end switches with detachable eyelets (photo 3) or end brackets (photo 4). In addition, there are adhesive end fasteners that are directly attached to the decoration (photo 5).

All fasteners can be divided into two groups: fasteners for single-row and for multi-row jewelry (such fasteners have 2 or more eyelets / holes). Fasteners of the first group are more common and versatile, since in almost all cases a multi-row fastener can be replaced with a single-row fastener using special adapters or multi-row trailers (you can read about how to complete multi-row jewelry).

Let us now consider what types of fasteners are, depending on the principle of their work:

1. Carabiners

In addition to standard carabiners, there are carabiners that open outward (beak / claw clasp), as well as carabiners without a protrusion that open by direct pressing on the moving element (they can be either the usual shape or, for example, oval):

Carabiners are most often used in neck jewelry. You can also attach carabiners to bracelets, but you may need someone's help when fastening the bracelet. The most convenient for bracelets, in our opinion, are carabiners with a rotating base.

Carabiner fasteners are usually made with one eyelet, but they can also be used for multi-row jewelry, as already mentioned above.

One of the undoubted advantages of carabiners compared to many other types of fasteners is that carabiners can be installed together with an extension chain. Thanks to this technique, the length of the decoration can be easily changed within a few centimeters. This can be very handy for bracelets and necklaces created for sale.

Examples of finished jewelry with carabiner clasps are shown below:

2. Rings

4) Decoration type: almost all types of clasps are suitable for jewelry around the neck, but it is better to put more reliable clasps on bracelets that will not unfasten on their own when rubbing your hand against clothes or other objects. In addition, for bracelets it is better to use clasps that you can unfasten or fasten yourself by putting on a bracelet. Despite such limitations, in almost any type of clasp, you can choose a clasp suitable for the bracelet - the main thing is to take into account all other factors. In our opinion, the most convenient clasps for bracelets are toggles, sliders, strong magnetic clasps, carabiners (if you get the hang of fastening them yourself).

5) Ease of use: when assembling jewelry, it is necessary to take into account the fact who will wear this jewelry. For people with low vision and impairments fine motor skills(for example, the elderly) it is better to use large, easy to fasten / unfasten clasps. For small children, on the contrary, it is better to use fasteners that are difficult to unfasten on their own - this reduces the likelihood that the jewelry will be lost.

6) Do I need to adjust the length of the decoration: if the jewelry is made for sale, it is better to put a clasp that allows you to change the length of the jewelry, for example, by using an extension chain. These fasteners include: carabiners, rings, hooks, snap fasteners. If the jewelry is created for a specific person, you can make a fixed size jewelry and use any type of fasteners. Note that all types of fasteners can be used for transforming jewelry that has a variable length. Even if the clasp does not imply the possibility of extension (it consists of two parts that can only be closed against each other), you can make jewelry with several such clasps. That is, the decoration will consist of several parts, each of which can be fastened both on its own and fastened to another part of the decoration. In this way, you can make beads / necklaces that can change length, or a bracelet and necklace that can be worn as a set, or can be fastened together and worn as long beads, as shown in the photo below:

7) Decoration design: Of course, when choosing a fastener, you should definitely take into account the design of the jewelry. The clasp should not stand out from the general style of the jewelry, draw attention to itself (unless, of course, it is the central element of the jewelry).

In some cases, you can do without a fastener. For example, when assembling jewelry on, or when creating long beads worn over the head or tied in a knot. On bracelets woven from, the clasp can be replaced with a slip knot or a button clasp can be formed. On wide textile or leather bracelets, lacing can be done. Examples of jewelry created without the use of fasteners are presented below:

And finally, consider non-standard options for using fasteners. For example, carabiners are often used to decorate key chains, bracelets, bookmarks, and sometimes earrings with pendants: the pendant on a carabiner can be easily detached and replaced with another one, which makes the jewelry/accessory more versatile. Togles themselves are sometimes used as pendants, and this applies to both rings and togle sticks. Below are examples of the use of fasteners "for other purposes":

This article was prepared by the staff of the Stylish Thing store specifically for the site. You may not place this article or parts of it on other sites, print in books, magazines, etc. without obtaining written permission from us. However, if you want to keep some information for personal use, we do not mind.

Are you fastening your bike securely? No matter how expensive or not very expensive it is, you will feel uncomfortable if one day you do not find it in the place where you recently left it. Reliable protection of the bike is of great importance, at least you need to make it as difficult as possible for a thief to steal your bike.

Check out the tips in the article for options and secrets to protect your bike.

Method 1: A reliable way to protect your bike

1. Remove the front wheel. If a bicycle wheel can be removed quickly, remove it. Place the front wheel next to the rear and lock both wheels. Very often, thieves remove the front wheel of a bicycle if it is equipped with a quick-release mechanism.

If the front wheel won't come off without a key, or if your U-lock is too small to buckle both wheels, read the following tips.

2. Fasten the front wheel and frame with a lock to fixed metal objects. Also use a U-lock to attach back bicycle together with the wheel to another object.

If your lock is small enough to wrap around an object, attach only rear wheel to an immovable object. Please note that the lock only needs to be attached inside the frame triangle. In this case, it is impossible to separate bicycle frame from the rear wheel. Usually this action is enough to stop the thief, because he will need to break the valuable rear wheel in order to steal the bike.
Do not attach a U-Lock to the top tube of a bicycle frame. This way of attaching the lock will help a thief steal your bike, because you can use the bicycle frame as a lever to break such a lock.

3. Secure the front wheel against theft if it does not come off. The front wheel is less valuable than the rear, but it also needs to be secured.

4. Before leaving your bike unattended, it is advisable to take or hide removable parts and personal items with you. Bag, flashlight, reflectors, bike computer and other things must be taken with you or, if possible, secured with a separate lock.

Method 2: Using Expensive Bike Locks

1. Buy good bike locks. Cheap locks can be easily broken or opened. Good bike locks are available from specialty bike shops or the bike department of a sporting goods store.

2. Use small and strong steel U-locks. These inflexible rings securely fasten a bicycle frame or bicycle wheels to metal objects. The smaller the U-lock, the more difficult it is for a thief to break it with tools.

For the best protection, choose a size U-lock that can only fit around the rear wheel, the frame, and the item it's attached to.
The free space between the lock and the bike should be as small as possible. The material of the lock must be strong.

3. Use heavy chains to fasten your bike. Sufficiently thick chains (15 mm or more) are an excellent tool against bicycle thieves.

4. Use the cable lock only as additional security. You can use a lock with a thick cable (20mm) which is harder to snap. But this type of lock is best used with a U-lock.

Such locks are mainly used to protect less important parts and accessories of a bicycle, for example, a bicycle basket.

Method 3: Choosing the best secure parking spot

1. Find out the area where you will leave your bike. Try not to leave your bike in neighborhoods with a high theft rate.

2. Try not to park near a place where suspicious persons or loafers, homeless people gather.

3. Do not leave your bicycle near railway and other stations. Thieves know where people who live outside the city limits leave their bikes unattended all day long. In such places, they can afford to spend more time stealing your bike.

4. Use well-lit areas, as well as where there are many passers-by. It is more difficult for a thief to steal your bike in such places.

Try to park your bike next to a building that has a security camera. In the event of a theft, you will have a video recording that will help you find the thief.

5. Find immovable preferably metal objects to attach the bike to. Not every bike rack will provide reliable protection. When parking, select the following items:

Hard and strong objects. Do not choose thin iron objects, wooden fences, and do not fasten bicycles to objects that are easy to cut.
Fasten the bike to non-separable objects. A collapsible bike rack can be quickly dismantled by a skilled thief.
Choose a structure that is firmly attached to the ground. Several strong thieves can pull such a structure off the ground. If you fasten your bike to road signs, then also check how firmly they are fixed on the sidewalk.
Fasten your bike to large heavy objects, otherwise a thief can take away the bike along with a small bike rack and unfasten your bike in a secluded place.

6. If possible, try to secure your bike between other bikes. First of all, the thief will try to steal the extreme bikes, as they are more easily accessible.

Method 4: Scaring off bike thieves.

1. Replace bicycle cams (most often on wheels) with conventional bicycle wrench nuts. Often bicycles are equipped with quick-release wheels and seats that are easy to remove. Often it is these bicycle items that are the objects of theft.

Bicycle shops sell special anti-vandal eccentrics, which are removed with a special key. Remove the usual eccentrics and insert anti-vandal ones into the same hole.
Some cheap quick releases are attached to the bike frame with a hex nut. They can be unscrewed with a hex wrench, but this method of fastening will keep your bike safe from accidental thieves.

2. Secure your bike saddle from theft. If the saddle is not attached to the frame with an anti-theft cam or additional protection, use the length of a bicycle chain to secure the saddle to the frame.

3. Write with a marker or scrawl your name on the bike. Then your bike will be harder to sell. Leave identifying initials on the frame and tires on both sides.

Cover the lettering on the frame with several layers of tape for more protection. A thief can rip it off, of course, but this deterrent will help shift the criminal's attention to an easier target.

4. The appearance of the bike should not be too defiant. Wrap the frame, seat, handlebars with insulating tape that can be easily removed. This type of bike will not attract the attention of thieves much, who will think that some damage is hidden in this way.

If your bike has an expensive, beautiful seat, then it's better to take it with you. If you use your bike for daily short commutes, you can attach an old or less expensive one instead of an expensive seat.

5. Have proof of ownership of your bike. The easiest way is to take a picture of yourself with a bike at home, while holding paper with its serial number in your hands.

The serial number is stamped on the bike frame or applied to a tag attached to the frame. If you don't know where to find it, ask knowledgeable friends to help you.

6. Attach the GPS controller to the bike. If your bike is very expensive, then buy a GPS controller. It is firmly attached to the bike frame and will help you find it if it is stolen.

Method 5: What to do if your bike is stolen.

1. Write a statement to the police as soon as possible. Grab documents for a bicycle when going to the police. It is important to indicate in the application serial number bike for identification.

Be sure to indicate the presence of a GPS controller if you have installed one.

2. Tell your friends about the bike theft, spread the word to in social networks, notify all people at the place where the bicycle was lost (workers of offices, shops at the place of loss). How more people aware of your bike being stolen, the more likely it is that someone saw the theft and will help you find the thief.

Leave your contact details and a detailed description of the bike.

3. Post stolen bike ads on bulletin boards and internet boards. If you receive any information about the theft, immediately report the details to the police.

4. If possible, ask for video from CCTV cameras. Ask the owners of video cameras to watch the video for the police. This will help identify the bike thief.

5. Keep an eye out for ads online on bulletin boards and social media to see if they sell a bike similar to yours. One of the bikes for sale could be yours. If you find a bike similar to yours, contact the authorities and inform the site owner.

6. Visit local markets, as well as other places where used bikes and bike parts can be sold. Find out where these bikes are usually served. If you see your bike and make sure it's definitely yours, contact law enforcement.

7. Claim an insurance claim if your bike was insured. You need to file a bike theft report as soon as possible so that the insured event is recorded.

8. Do not try to return the bike yourself. As soon as you find your bike somewhere, immediately contact law enforcement. Don't take the risk of figuring it out on your own.

Adviсe

Make it harder for thieves to steal your bike. Then the thief will choose another bike.
If possible, fasten your bike so that you can see it from the window.
Use reputable bike locks whenever possible (Kryptonite, Abus, Trelock, etc.).
Attach the seat and handlebars to the frame, if possible, using a cable lock.

Warnings

Try not to let the castle touch the ground. This will prevent a thief from using a hammer and other heavy objects when picking the lock.
Never leave your bicycle in places where it is not allowed to park bicycles, or in places where it will interfere with other road users.

What you need

Minimum 2 bicycle lock, preferably U-shaped, but at least one U-lock.
Bicycle chain (optional).
Items that repel bike thieves. For example, duct tape or patches to disguise your bike.

In conclusion, watch an interesting video on how to make a reliable bike lock with your own hands:

Depending on the style of riding, the question of removing the chain arises either almost immediately after the start of riding, for example, in trials or downhill, or, after many kilometers of riding, when maintenance and replacement of the chain is required.

Chain removal situations

It is very important, and there may be several reasons for removing the chain:

Deep cleaning - it is recommended to remove all elements from time to time and clean them of grease and accumulated abrasive.
Damage and replacement of links.
Replacing a worn chain.
Change in length with a new combination of stars, for example, on a mountain bike.

Wear in "home conditions" is primarily determined by stretching. A stretched chain is a cause for concern, as misaligned links severely damage sprockets and can be dangerous to derailleurs.

It is quite difficult to note wear by eye, and there is an indicator to determine it - the length of 24 links:

if it is 305 mm (304.8 value for a new set), everything is in order;
306.5-307.5 mm - it's time to change;
307.5 mm - if the bike was still in use with such wear, then the entire set of sprockets is most likely damaged;
308 mm - the value of the damaged transmission.

Tension link example

It is objectively recommended to service the transmission every 500 kilometers, but this value is not fixed, since 50 kilometers over rough terrain with an abundance of sand and mud can correspond to another thousand on clean city roads.

Some people prefer to cut the chain, but the stretch is usually evenly distributed and the links can still damage sprockets that can no longer be repaired.

Important Points

In addition to conventional devices, there are models with a lock - a special link, which is slightly different in shape from the others, and allows you to open the link using reverse tension without using a squeeze or other tools, the main thing is to put the lock link correctly. It is not recommended to open the links near the lock, as this will reduce the reliability of the entire mechanism.

It is very important to remember how the chain is connected to the system, cassette and switches before starting to remove it - without a little experience in mounting and dismounting it can be difficult to put it back on.

Standard withdrawal process

All guides describe the same order of work for removal. This will require, first of all, a small set of tools - without them it will be quite difficult.

Tools

wrench for removing the rear wheel;
pliers for holding segments and pins;
squeeze - a device for pressing out pins, without a lock - the most important tool in the process.

Process

Consider step by step how to remove the chain from the bike:

We clean the links from dirt - it will interfere with each subsequent step.
Removing the rear wheel is an optional step, but it is much easier to work without it.
Squeeze out the pin (the metal cylinder that closes each link) with a squeeze.
Disconnect one link.
Remove the extreme links from the switches.

The reverse sequence is similar - put the chain in place and assemble the structure back, riveting the pin with a squeeze, and rotating it in the opposite direction.

Without tools

In the absence of squeeze, you can install everything back without it. Pliers and any strong cylinder, for example, a small hexagon, will help. By carefully clamping the cylinder, the pin can be riveted in the same way as the squeeze, it just requires a lot more attention and effort.

Models with a lock can be unhooked using a tight rope or cable. This allows you to make quick repairs literally in field conditions, for example, when the chain suddenly broke on a short trip.

Removal of the lock link without tools

Conclusion

Removing a chain from a bike is very easy if you have a simple tool or basic knowledge of the process. The most important thing is to act carefully, as forceful actions with extrusion can be dangerous.

What is needed for ball chain I hope everyone understands. It is not clear how to fasten the ends of ball chain. How to attach a clasp to a chain? Which one to use?

ball chain(chain) is a chain that is assembled from small metal balls. Balls (hollow inside) are interconnected by pieces of wires. Ball chains are on sale. different size(balls of different diameters). There are at least two ways to attach such chains. I mean connecting the ends of the chain, or attaching locks to the ends.

How to attach a padlock to a ball chain?

One way to connect.

I'll show you a shell clip (similar to a knot holder, only it opens differently). The bead at the end of the ball chain is inserted into the "shell" and clamped by platypuses. We insert into the holes of the clamp. And what to attach to the ring next is up to you. You can simply connect the chain with one ring.

In the photographs it is this accessories for jewelry. The clip itself (I have) is a bit small for this chain. But this is only visually, in practice it holds up well. The eyelet is very small. With difficulty I found copper rings of the desired thickness. The photographs show the assembly of a copper ball chain. At the end I attached a lock - a carabiner.

Ball chains vary in the size of the balls. Accordingly, the appropriate size of the “shell” goes to a certain chain. Keep this in mind when shopping for jewelry accessories.

Anatolevich

The second way to attach the ball chain.

There is a special device, a lock into which the ends (balls) of the chain are inserted. Constantly fastening and unfastening in this way is not very convenient. It is best to use such fasteners on long chains. Those that can be worn over the head. For each size of the ball chain, select the appropriate lock.

There is also a video on this topic. Settle down and watch.

I look forward to your comments!

Anatolevich

Sooner or later, every avid cyclist has a chain failure. Luckily, there's no need to take your bike to an expensive repair shop if you can fix it yourself. The following tips will help you as soon as possible troubleshoot.

Steps

Replacing a Broken Chain

Assess the damage and try to do something. If the chain breaks while riding, roll the bike to the curb and lay it on its side, sprockets up. Inspect the chain break - most likely the chain is hanging on the sprocket, and you can easily find two broken ends. IN conventional chain the links are connected to each other by means of a pin (pin, or cylindrical cup) that fastens the plates of the inner link through which the pin passes, and a roller located on top of the cup. Therefore, if you are an experienced cyclist and you carry a chain fitting tool and spare parts with you, you can fix the chain yourself and re-tension it (see Method 2). Mostly, bicycle chains are divided into three categories:

Chains with special rivets. Special rivets from the manufacturer are supplied with such chains. If you do not have such rivets with you, then, to repair the chain, you will have to get to the nearest bike parts store.
Chains with closing links. These chains have a special link with two rivets that connect the ends of the chain. If this link breaks, then you will have to replace this link in order to repair the chain.
Chains with "normal" links. Old, traditional chains consist of standard links, each of which can be replaced with the same (if you have a tool).

Remove the broken chain. If you find that replacing the chain will be easier than repairing it, then the first thing you need to do is remove the old chain. If it is completely torn, then just spin the pedals and it will fall off the sprocket itself. If the chain does not fall off when scrolling, then it must be disconnected manually. This can be done with a squeezer, available at almost any bike shop.

Splitting the chain links with the squeeze: Position the pin of the chain against the pin of the squeeze. Then tighten the screw of the pin, extruding the pin. If you plan to reuse the chain, do not remove the pin completely, but just enough to break the chain links.
After you have disengaged the chain, pedal so that the chain falls off the cassette. If you want to replace the chain, then remember to count the number of links in the old chain (on bikes with a rear derailleur, take into account the error). Also consider the type of drivetrain you have, as this determines the type of chain that will fit your bike. For example, a 9-speed chain is suitable for a 9-speed transmission, etc.

Raise the rear wheel. The next step is to thread the new chain through the rear derailleur. To do this, you will need to spin the rear wheel, which will be much easier if it is not on the ground. If you have a bike rack, or a pole in the wall to hang your bike on, take advantage of that. If you do not have such benefits, simply lift the back of the frame by placing something under it, such as a box or cinder block.

Thread the chain through the rear derailleur. On most modern mountain bikes The rear derailleur is a spring-loaded mechanism that descends below the main rear sprocket. Threading a chain through this mechanism requires special attention because driving safety depends on it. Take the "mother" (the end of the chain without the pin) of the pre-sized chain, and circle it around the lower idler, and then around the upper one. If done correctly, the chain will run in an S-shape. If S turned out to be uneven, it is possible that the chain did not fit into all the grooves of the rollers, or caught on something.

There may be a small metal lug between the rear derailleur idlers. The chain must not touch it.
Some bikes, such as grouses (fixed gear bikes) or bikes with planetary hubs, do not have a rear derailleur. In such cases, simply put the chain on the sprocket and pedal as instructed in the next step.

Put the chain on the rear cassette. On mountain bikes, the rear cassette is a set of multiple sprockets attached to the rear wheel. Once the chain has been threaded through the derailleur, slide it over the smallest sprocket in the cassette. After making sure that the chain is securely passed through the derailleur and is firmly on the sprocket, pull it slightly.

Thread the chain through the front derailleur. On most modern mountain bikes, there is a metal mechanism in the front sprocket area that moves the chain from one sprocket to another. Pass the front end of the chain through this derailleur. If the chain does not reach, push the rear wheel a little further.

Capercaillie, again, don't have a front derailleur, so just slide the chain over the front sprocket as shown in the next step.

Put the chain on the front sprocket. Put the chain on the smallest front sprocket. Pull it well, and check that it lies on all the teeth of the sprocket, then scroll the pedal.

Connect the ends of the chain. Now that the chain has been securely passed through all the components of the transmission, you can connect the ends and enjoy your rides again. Place the connecting link ("mother" and "father") in the squeeze, on the stop, which is closer to the fixing screw. When adjusting the position of the chain, move the pin to the clamped pin so that they are aligned. Tighten the link with the fixing screw. Rotate the handle to clamp the pin into the link. Constantly monitor the degree of immersion of the pin. Failure to comply with this subtlety can lead to breakage.

One useful tool is the c-clip (small thin piece of metal) that helps hold the two ends of the chain together. This makes the job much easier because you don't have to hold the two ends of the chain yourself. A bent paperclip can serve as such a C-bracket.

Replacing a Loose Chain

Determine where the chain jumped off. Sometimes the chain does not break, but simply leaves its usual position. Since it is still on the front and rear derailleurs in this case, no special intervention is required - all you have to do is install the chain back onto the sprocket. If the chain falls off en route, get off the bike, lay it on its side, sprockets up, and find the place to dismount. Usually the chain falls off the front sprocket but remains on both derailleurs.
- Look for places where the chain can be pinched. Take appropriate measures before your next trip.
Loosening the eccentric in case the chain is pinched. As mentioned above, sometimes the chain will get stuck between the rear sprocket and the frame. In this case, loosen the rear wheel eccentric and unscrew the eccentric nut so that the chain can be removed.
- The eccentric is opened by unclenching a small lever located in the center of the rear wheel. Then unscrew the nut opposite side from the lever and release the chain.
  - Don't forget to clamp the eccentric back before riding. The nut should be moderately tight, so that the lever is not too tight and not too loose. If the lever is too tight, loosen the nut a little and try tightening again. If the lever is clamped too easily, the nut must be tightened.
On bikes with rear derailleurs, loosen the chain tension and pull it over the front sprocket. Most bikes have a spring in the rear derailleur that keeps the chain tensioned while riding. Overcoming the resistance of the spring, tension the chain so that it can be put on the smallest front sprocket. Then release the chain and make sure it is tight enough.
- As a rule, you can now continue driving. At first, the bike may ride erratically until the chain sits in the correct position.
On bikes without gears, the chain is pulled onto the front sprocket by pedaling. As mentioned above, in many bicycles, for example, in "grouse" there are no speed switches. In this case, put the chain on the rear sprocket, and, hooking it on as far as possible large quantity teeth on the bottom of the front sprocket, pedal backwards. The chain should catch on and begin to wrap around the sprocket. When the chain wraps around the last top tooth of the sprocket, it will be able to function properly.
- Pedaling will be easier if you lift the rear wheel. To do this, you can put the bike on a rack, or put some material under it. You can also ask someone to hold the rear wheel on the weight, or, in extreme cases, just turn the bike over.

It's not unusual for a chain to drop from time to time, but if it happens too often, professional help may be needed.
If you have the opportunity, get a special tool called a chain tensioner. Buy yourself a couple and follow the instructions on the package. Typically, you will need a Phillips screwdriver and an Allen wrench of a certain size. These tools will help you maintain proper chain tension.
If your chain is still slack and you can't get professional help, you may need to remove a few chain links to shorten it. But, do not take on this if you do not know how to remove the links correctly.
Every cyclist should have basic knowledge and repair skills. In this way, you can not only save on service costs, but also not be in a hopeless situation, being away from the bike shop.

Cautions

Braid your long hair, tuck in your clothes, and button your fly all the way down before you repair your chain.
It is better to use gloves when repairing, so as not to get your hands dirty in grease.
Do not stick your fingers into the chain, otherwise they can be injured, or lost altogether.