Removable chain

[Andrepaul]

Is there a type of chain that is designed to be removed periodically for cleaning without having to "break" a link? Which brand/model is recommended? I'd like to get one for my always-dirty mountain bike.

[shannons dad]

Is there a type of chain that is designed to be removed periodically for cleaning without having to "break" a link? Which brand/model is recommended? I'd like to get one for my always-dirty mountain bike.
Most of SRAM's chains have a link that breaks just by pushing them together. Quite clever really.:)

[John M]

Is there a type of chain that is designed to be removed periodically for cleaning without having to "break" a link? Which brand/model is recommended? I'd like to get one for my always-dirty mountain bike.


Wipperman also. But for the money, SRAM makes good value MTB chains.

[Don Shipp]

Most of SRAM's chains have a link that breaks just by pushing them together. Quite clever really.:)Wipperman chains are even better than SRAM and have a similar link. There is a nine speed version, dunno about a ten.

[Andrepaul]

Wipperman chains are even better than SRAM and have a similar link. There is a nine speed version, dunno about a ten.
I assume that I will need a chain link remover tool such as the one made by Park to remove the specific chain link?

[John M]

I assume that I will need a chain link remover tool such as the one made by Park to remove the specific chain link?

Yes, to properly size the chain when it is first installed. After that the chain can be removed and reinstalled without tools.

[shannons dad]

I assume that I will need a chain link remover tool such as the one made by Park to remove the specific chain link?
From the little I know about Wipperman, you'll need a chain tool to shorten it for sizing, but the actual quick-release link is tool free. I've always used SRAM myself and have never managed to break one whilst riding, but they are cheaper to replace when they wear out.

[Don Shipp]

I assume that I will need a chain link remover tool such as the one made by Park to remove the specific chain link?Both SRAM and Wipperman have a link in their chains that can be opened without tools. This is to allow the chain to be removed easily for cleaning, a tool might be needed when you first put it on the bike simply to get the length right.

[otherworld]

I use Wipperman and Durace chains on my road bike and use the Wipperman Connex links on both. Very easy to use, trouble free and will make your chains last longer because you will actualy take them off to clean them properly and regularly. If you're not putting a removeable link in for this reason then don't bother.

The Connex link (Wipperman) is a very free fit and relies on the chain keeping normal alignment to stay in place. No problem on a road bike even on bumps, holes and cattle grids. I'm not sure you could absolutely trust it in an extreme, full-bore downhill or MTB situation though.

The Sram link is also very good, is a firmer fit and, I think may be more likely to stay in place under adverse conditions.

You don't need to have the chain that goes with the link either. You can buy the links separately and use them on any chain of the same size and grade. i.e. you have to have a nine speed link in a nine speed chain.

Remember to chuck the link when the chain is finished. The link will obviousely wear at the same rate as the rest of the chain.

Good Luck J.

[litespeedguy]

I have the Wippermann Connex chain and love it !!

A tip : Make it easy on yourself when you're ready to remove the link - drop the chain off the small chainring - this way there's no derailleur tension on the chain -- makes for putting the link on & off much easier.

[capwater]

Got an SRAM PC-89 on one of my bikes. Took a while to figure out the procedure to unclasp it, but once you get the hang of it, it is a breeze. Pretty ingenious concept. So far so good, haven't heard of any powerlink failures so it seems good and sturdy.