Road and MTB chains are interchangeable when they are of similar length and designed for the same number of speeds.
Is there a difference between bike chains?
Chains can vary in side plate shape, sizing, and height. Differences can cause variations in shifting performance between brands and models. Additionally, chains will vary in the quality of steel used. Better chains that are more durable and longer lasting tend to have harder rivets.
Can you use a mountain bike for road biking?
The quick and simple answer is: Yes, you can ride your mountain bike on the street. Mountain bikes are primarily designed for bike trails, and won’t perform nearly as well when ridden on the road, but you can definitely do it.
Are all bicycle chains the same pitch?
Pitch is the same for all the chains – they are aligned by length. As can be seen from the picture 3, the outer width differs mostly. This is important for bikes with multiple sprockets, so the chain doesn’t get stuck (too wide), or drop between the sprockets (too narrow).
Are bike chains different sizes?
Chains come in 3⁄32 in (2.4 mm), 1⁄8 in (3.2 mm), 5⁄32 in (4.0 mm), or 3⁄16 in (4.8 mm) roller widths, the internal width between the inner plates. 1⁄8 in (3.2 mm) chains are typically used on bikes with a single rear sprocket: those with coaster brakes, hub gears, fixed gears such as track bicycles, or BMX bikes.
How do I buy a mountain bike chain?
A lot of mountain bikes are 10-, 11- or 12-speed and, when buying a chain, it will be clearly labelled accordingly. Simply find out how many gears, or ‘speeds’, you bike has (count the number of gears on the rear cassette and multiply it by the number of chainrings at the front), and pick the corresponding chain.
How do I know what chain I need for my bike?
The method of chain sizing depends upon the range of gearing in the system. For bikes with rear sprockets 36 teeth and smaller, the common system is to measure using the largest rear sprocket and largest front ring as a reference. Two rivets are added to this (one-inch) for the place to cut the chain.
Is it bad to ride mountain bike on road?
A mountain bike is specially designed for traveling off-road and hill climbing. Using your mountain bike on the road is fine and is no issue at all.
Is it harder to ride a mountain bike on the road?
Mountain bikes are harder to pedal and slower on pavement. But they have a cushy ride, an upright riding position, and can travel easily on a wide variety of surfaces. Hybrid or cross bikes are almost as fast and easy to pedal as a road bike, while being almost as comfortable and versatile as a mountain bike.
Why is it harder to ride a mountain bike on the road?
Yes, because mtb is designed for off road conditions. Mtb are heavier and not aerodynamic. Mtb is equipped with wide tires which means higher rolling resistance compared to the narrow road tires. Mtb is usually equipped with suspension to cushion impact.
Can I use a 8 speed chain on a 7 speed bike?
Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo all use the same chain with 8 speeds. Chain for 7 speeds is a bit wider – 7.3 mm, while a 6 speed one is substantially wider – 7.8 mm. That is why the reverse is not the case and a 7 speed chain and especially a 6 speed one will not work as well on an 8 speed system.
Can I use an 11 speed chain on a 12 speed cassette?
An 11-speed chain will cause chain rubbing and poor shifting when used on a 12-speed cassette because of the extra width. If your goal is optimal shifting, it’s recommended to avoid this combination. Also, an 11-speed chain will accelerate component wear due to the stress on the drivetrain.
Are 10 and 11 speed chains the same?
The spacing between 11-speed chainring teeth centers is not narrower than on 10-speed chainrings. In some cases, it is even a bit wider on 11-speed. So your system will perform pretty much the same as it does now if you were to replace your 10-speed chainrings with 11-speed ones.
What chain do I need for my mountain bike?
Simply find out how many gears, or ‘speeds’, you bike has (count the number of gears on the rear cassette and multiply it by the number of chainrings at the front), and pick the corresponding chain.
What size chain should I get?
After a measurement is obtained, its a good idea to opt for a necklace size that is at least the second size up from your neck size. For example, if you have an 18 inch neck, you should probably choose a chain length of 20 inches or more. An 18 inch chain would feel too tight.