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What is a bike chain?
A bike chain is a critical part of a bicycle’s drivetrain. It’s the component that transfers power from the pedals to the rear wheel, allowing the bike to move forward when you pedal.
A bike chain is made up of:
- Inner and outer plates
- Rollers
- Pins
These parts are linked together in a loop, and they fit over the chainrings at the front (attached to the pedals) and the cassette or freewheel at the rear (attached to the back wheel).
Types of Bike Chains
Single-speed chains are designed for bikes with no gears (like fixies, BMX and kids bikes).
Multi-speed chains are narrower and made to shift smoothly between gears (like on road and mountain bikes).
E-bike chains are reinforced for higher torque from motors.
How to Choose the Right Bike Chain
Chains are not one-size-fits-all.
Number of Gears. Your bike’s drivetrain (the gear system) determines the chain you need.
- Single-speed bikes (1 gear) use a wider single speed bike chain, usually 1/8".
- 6/7/8-speed bike chains are a wider multi-speed chain and often interchangeable.
- 9-speed bike chains are designed for much older road bikes and mountain bikes, or current day hybrid/lifestyle bikes.
- 10-speed bike chains are used on upper level lifestyle bikes mid-range road and mountain bikes.
- 11-speed bike chains are some of the more popular because of how long they've been around.
- 12-speed bike chains are the narrowest and is used on the latest performance road, electric and mountain bikes.
Tip: Match the chain with the number of cogs on your rear cassette.
Brand Compatibility. Chains generally work best when matched with the brand of your drivetrain. Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo and KMC each have specific compatibilities.
How to Maintain Your Bike Chain
Proper chain care results in better performance and longer bike life.
Basic Maintenance Tips
- Clean your chain regularly: Every 100–200km for MTB, 300–500km for road bikes.
- Lubricate after cleaning: Use a dry lube for dry conditions, wet lube for wet/muddy rides.
- Check chain wear: A worn chain can damage your cassette. Use a chain checker tool or visit Ivanhoe Cycles for a quick check.
Avoid These Common Mistakes:
- Don’t over lube (it attracts dirt).
- Don’t use household degreasers that damage your drivetrain.