Cycling Specials

May 23, 2009

The Stiff Link

by James Weir

Ultegra 10-speed chain has developed a clicking sound, two clicks per revolution of the chain ” the first at the chain rings and the second at the derailleur. This, he realizes, is because of a stiff link in the chain. The question was whether he should replace just the link or would he have to get a new chain altogether. Actually, it is just the link that needs to be changed.

The Shimano Ultegra 10-speed chain is an extremely narrow chain. It weighs 280 gm. In other words, it has 116 links. The Shimano chain is joined at one point. It is in this linking area that the problem usually lies. If you clean all the link pins, removing the dirt, oil and grease that cover them, they will regain their original lustre.

Only one link pin will look black. This, then is the culprit link pin, and has to be got rid of. A link extractor tool is required for this purpose, but the removal of this pin has to be done very carefully, otherwise the other link pins might get affected. Worse, the chain might come apart when you are riding the bike, and that could be dangerous.

The stiff link could be replaced by a Shimano pin. You could also use the SRAM Power Link pin. It is a strong and durable link. The SRAM Power Link is compatible with the Shimano chain, and using this link will not harm the original chain in any way. In fact, it will make the chain stronger, and thus prevent any accident from happening.

However, if it is not the joining link that is stiff, but a link from another part of the chain, then, you will need to hold the chain such that your hands are on either side of the stiff link. Twist the chain so that the link is twisted as well. This will loosen the link. You might have to use the link extractor tool to push it a bit, in order to remove the stiffness, carefully avoiding touching the other links. Once the link is loose, it will not make the clicking sound.

A good lubricant is a must for the smooth running of a bike. Be careful to choose a lubricant with silicone in it. This oil will lubricate your chain effectively. Avoid the WD40, as this merely removes the water and does not really lubricate the chain. At one and a half months, the chain is not worn; it just needs lubricating and maybe the replacement of a pin. If you are not very sure of how to go about this, it is best to take the bike to a trustworthy bike repair shop.