Choosing a Chain

richie-rich
richie-rich Posts: 36
edited February 2012 in Workshop
I am building a bike for my son which is going to have a shimano 5600 rear mech and cassette(12-27).
The chainset is 46-34.
What length chain will I need? Do I need a 10 speed chain? Does it matter what brand?
Also would like one where I can fit kmc chain link.

Comments

  • rake
    rake Posts: 3,204
    why not get a kmc chain.
  • StefanP
    StefanP Posts: 429
    You'll need to buy a chain which is designed for however many gears you have in your freewheel/cassette. If you want to get a KMC chain link then you would have to buy a campagnolo or shimano chain, as campagnolo isn't compatible with a Shimano chain (IIRC) then you'd have to buy either a shimano or KMC chain. In terms of chain length, wrap it around the largest rear sprocket and the largest chainring (bypass the derailleur) and then add one full link.

    Sheldonbrown: http://sheldonbrown.com/derailer-adjustment.html#chain
  • keef66
    keef66 Posts: 13,123
    Well if it's a 5600 (105) rear mech and cassette then it's 10 speed, so ideally you need a 10 speed Shimano type chain. I'd also reccommend getting a KMC since the quick link is included.

    Standard chain length is 116 links I think, so you'll likely need to trim it.

    Various methods of determining correct chain length including the above; have a Google.

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