How To Remove A Bike Chain

You may want to remove a bike chain for several reasons: repairing, cleaning, replacing, or turning. Either way, removing a bike chain is simple when you follow the right process.

Since a bike chain has three different types of chain, this article will go in-depth to explain how to remove every kind of chain. Let's get started.

Method #1: Removing a master link chain

We have bikes that have a master link chain like modern and multi-speed bikes. The master link chain is different from other types of chain.

It will have a different coloring on the side or a unique link different from other links on the chain. You'll find master link chains on modern or multi-speed bikes. Here is the  you need to follow:

Step #1: Locate the master link on the chain.

A master link will have a round metal pin in the center of the links. Just check your bike chain, and you'll see it.

Step #2: Squeeze the master link together using pliers. 

Bike-specific pliers are designed to fit into the grooves of a chain. Make sure the two jaws of the link pliers fit into the chain's gaps on the sides of the master link.

Using the pliers, squeeze the side of the master link together. Besides using master link pliers, you can also use needle-nose pliers, although it will be challenging to remove the master link chain.

Step #3: Release the pliers & separate the master link.

Release the jaws of the pliers, and the master link will come apart.

Step #4: Remove the chain.

Pull the chain off the sprockets. This is an easy process once you have separated the master link. If you want to put the chain back, you'll still use the master link pliers to hold the master link together.

Method # 2: Removing the splint link chain

For bikes that don’t have a master link chain, the process is slightly difficult. Before we remove the splint link chain, you need to know the four parts of the chain:

• Rivet or pin
• Chain roller
• Outer metal plate
• Inner metal plate

Step #1: Find the splint link on the chain

This is a different link that looks unique from the rest of the links on the chain. The link will have a metal side plate that’s cut out in the middle. You’ll find splint link chains on single-speed bikes like children’s bikes or beach cruisers.

Step #2: Using a needle nose plier, to release the metal plate

Insert the jaws of the needle nose pliers on the splint link's left rivet. The other jaw should touch the left edge of the metal plate. Then gently squeeze the pliers to close the jaws together. When the jaws come close, you'll hear a click, and the metal plate will shift to the right.

Be careful not to use too much force when releasing the metal plate. Otherwise, you could trigger the spring, which can shoot off the bike. When this happens, you'll want to replace the spring-loaded clip as soon as possible.

Step #3: Removing the metal plate

Once you have released the pliers, slide off the rivets on the link. You can slide it off using the pliers if you experience any trouble. Put the plate in a safe place so that you don't lose it.

After that, you'll need to take off a second metal plate on the front of the link. Slide the second plate using fingers off the rivets to separate the chain. At this point, the bike's chain should be easier to remove.

Step #4: Lift the chain

Carefully remove the chain off the sprockets while lifting it. Store the chain in a safe place away from debris and dirt.

Method #3: Removing the standard link chain

Some bikes may not have a master link chain or splint link chain. All you'll ever get is the regular link chain that's identical to the rest of the chain link. Here are the exact steps you need to follow:

Step #1: Buy a chain tool if you don’t have one. 

A chain tool is a small device with a rotating handle and metal pin. The chain tool aims to push the rivet out of the chain link to separate the chain.

Step #2: Put a pin on one of the links into the chain tool.

The chain tool has two prongs that can fit on the links of a bike chain. All you need is to slide the link between the two prongs to hold them in place. Make sure the prongs fit into the chain-link gaps well.

The next thing is to use the chain tool to push the rollers' pin, making the chain come apart. Never insert the chain tool into any other parts apart from the pin. Otherwise, you will damage the chain.

Step #3: Rotate the chain tool clockwise

Once the chain tool is in place, rotate it clockwise to push the pin out. You'll experience some resistance but ensure that the chain tool hasn't slipped off the pin.

When you spin the chain tool, you will notice the rivet being pushed out. If the rivet is almost out, you need to stop rotating because reinstalling the pin back again when it falls is impossible. 

Step #4: Rotate the handle counterclockwise

The next step is rotating the chain tool counterclockwise to pull it from the link. It would be best to stop spinning when you can lift the chain out of the chain tool.

 Now that the rivet is almost out, you should be in a position to separate the chain link and remove the bike chain. When you want to put it back, you will still need to use a chain tool.

Conclusion

If you are a regular bike rider, you should consider investing in chain removal tools to make the process seamless and more effortless. Consider having the tools as part of your bike repair kit. Removing a bike chain means you can clean the bike, replace the chain, turn the chain, repair the chain quickly without going to a bike's shop.