The common problems with worn-out and very used bicycles are usually associated with the bike chain. If not rusty, the chain may have loosened due to the constant tension and may also be misaligned from constant use. Regardless of the issue, it is a challenge every time there is a need to remove the chain and put it back on. While removing the chain may not be that much of a challenge, trying to put it back on the bike is the one we should worry about as it requires precision and accuracy. In this article, we’ll share with you a few tips and advice on how you can put the chain back on the bike effectively and ensure that it doesn’t fall off.
Why do bike chains fall off?
To know the solution, we should first understand the question. So why do chains fall off the bike? First is to understand that bike chains are made from steel plates that are joined together by rivets. The chains are designed to be sturdy and at the same time flexible to support the circular loop motion as you pedal.
Now with the constant use of the chain, the common reason that it falls off is that it loosens over time. As the chain is stretched constantly, it is bound to loosen or stretch in the long run. A good fix to this would be simply to change the chain or change the specific steel plate that is loosened.
Another reason that the chain may fall off is that the chain is too long for the specific bike frame. Bike frames come with specific bike chain requirements and the chain must be always double-checked in this regard.
With consistent use, the bike chain is also bound to wear and tear. This is especially true for bikes that are always used and even those chains that come in contact with debris and exposure to external elements such as water, dirt, rocks, and others. In case the chain is damaged, it is best to replace it to avoid malfunctions and even injuries.
Putting the chain back on the bike
Now putting the chain back on the bike becomes easy once you understand the problem and have considered the solution.
For this procedure, you’ll need to flip the bike upside down to fully access its lower parts.
As soon as you’ve checked the right chain to use and made sure that every steel plate has no damage, all you have to do is to thread the chain in place by using the bike pedal. To start simply place the chain on the gear or derailleurs from the rear wheel and place the other side of the chain over the pedal wheel. Next is to slowly turn the foot pedal using your hand (with the bike upside down). Turning the pedal will immediately pull the chain and set it in place on the pedal wheel.
Once the chain is installed in place, do further checks to see if the chain is fit perfectly and if there are no loose ends.