remove 2 links or not to remove 2 links (chain length Q)

driverpm
driverpm Posts: 65
edited January 2008 in Workshop
sorry if this is a repeat:
just got a new chain as i want to keep 2 on the go and rotate while cleaning. Existing chain is about 200 miles old and 2 links shorter than new (same chain type). Am i right in thinking that to make things easy, and avoid rear mech problems / shifting dificulties, i need to remove 2 links from my new chain?
Cheers
Phil

PS happy cycling in 2008!
Facts are stubborn things, but statistics are more pliable

Comments

  • Smokin Joe
    Smokin Joe Posts: 2,706
    Both chains should be the same length. Two links too long and it will be hanging on the floor. (Assuming your present chain is the correct length, of course).
  • John.T
    John.T Posts: 3,698
    I would not change the chain until you have done about 1000 miles. Perhaps a little less in dirty winter conditions. You should get at least 6000 miles from the 2 chains if they are good quality ones.
    My Fleet.
  • andrew_s
    andrew_s Posts: 2,511
    John.T wrote:
    I would not change the chain until you have done about 1000 miles. Perhaps a little less in dirty winter conditions. You should get at least 6000 miles from the 2 chains if they are good quality ones.
    I'd suggest more frequently than that - I've had a new chain slip when the old one was only 800 miles old.
  • John.T
    John.T Posts: 3,698
    I use Ultegra cassettes and have found them to be very hard wearing and cost effective. I get 10000 miles plus from a cassette. Three to four chains. I always spend £15 or more for chains. Dura-ace or similar. Again cheaper in the long run. I think this is one area where the better and more expensive kit is worth while, even for the hack bike. Perhaps more so as it gets all the muck.
    My Fleet.

Categories