Changing a Bike Chain: Step-by-Step Guide

A well-maintained bicycle chain is crucial for clean shifting, efficient power transfer, and the longevity of the entire drivetrain. However, even with optimal care, there comes a time when you should replace your bicycle chain. In this article, you will learn when a replacement is necessary – and how to do it yourself, step by step.

By Vincent Augustin 3 minutes read time

Fahrradkette wechseln: Schritt für Schritt Anleitung

About the author Vincent Augustin

Vincent founded MYVELO together with Fabian. The two share a long-standing passion for cycling. Together they have cycled thousands of kilometers and fought for victories in the German racing bike league. The idea of founding MYVELO arose from their many years of experience and knowledge of what makes a good bike. Find out more about MYVELO now

Published: April 11, 2026

Why should you change your bike chain regularly?

A bike chain is a wear part. Due to constant stress, it stretches over time – even if it still looks good on the outside. This so-called “chain stretch” causes the cassette and chainrings to wear out faster.

The consequences of a worn chain:

Poor shifting
Increased wear on sprockets and chainrings
Noise while riding
In the worst case: chain break

👉 Therefore: Better to change it early than having to replace expensive components later.

When should you change your bike chain?

As a rule of thumb:

Road bike / E-bike / Trekking bike: every 2,000 – 4,000 km
Mountain bike (off-road): often after just 1,500 – 3,000 km

However, the most reliable method is to measure it with a chain wear gauge.

At 0.75% stretch: change recommended
At the latest at 1.0%: replace immediately

What do you need for a chain change?

Before you start, you should have the right tools ready:

New bike chain (matching the gears, e.g., 9-, 10-, 11- or 12-speed)
Chain tool or chain breaker
Optional: Master link pliers
Gloves (recommended)
Rag and chain oil

Differences between 5-, 6-, 7-, 8- and 9-speed chains

Depending on the shifting system, the bike chain primarily differs in its width and compatibility. While 5-, 6- and 7-speed chains are relatively wide (approx. 7.8 mm), chains become narrower as the number of gears increases, as the sprockets on the cassette move closer together. 8-speed chains are usually around 7.1 mm, 9-speed chains are even narrower (approx. 6.6 mm).

Important: The chain must always exactly match the number of gears, as a chain that is too wide will not fit cleanly between the sprockets, and a chain that is too narrow can lead to play, poor shifting performance, and increased wear. In addition, the systems sometimes differ in their connection options – older 5- to 7-speed chains are often riveted, while master links are common for 8- and 9-speed chains. If you are unsure, you should refer to the existing chain or cassette to make the right choice.

Even with MYVELO e-bikes and bicycles, the chain can be easily changed yourself with a little manual skill. Depending on the model, different shifting systems are used, which must be taken into account when choosing the right chain: The MYVELO e-folding bikes are equipped with a Shimano 7-speed gear system and accordingly require a classic 7-speed chain.

Step-by-step guide: Changing a bike chain

1. Preparation

First, shift to the smallest sprocket at the rear and the smallest chainring at the front. This puts the chain under as little tension as possible and makes it easier to remove.

2. Opening the old chain

There are two options:

With a master link:
The link can be opened with a special tool or a little dexterity.
Without a master link:
Use a chain tool to push a pin out of the chain.

👉 Tip: The first time, it's worth retrofitting a master link – it makes future changes much easier.

3. Removing the chain

Now you can simply remove the old chain from the drivetrain.
It's advisable to carefully note the path through the derailleur and front derailleur – or take a photo.

4. Adjusting the new chain to the correct length

The new chain is usually too long and needs to be shortened.

Here's how:

Place the new chain and old chain next to each other
Compare lengths
Remove superfluous links with the chain tool

👉 Alternatively: Lay the chain over the largest chainring and largest sprocket (without the derailleur) and then add +2 links.

5. Threading the new chain

Now guide the new chain through:

Derailleur
Cassette
Chainrings

Important: The chain must run correctly through the pulley wheels of the derailleur.

6. Closing the chain

Depending on the system, there are two variants:

Master link:
Simply insert and snap into place by pedaling firmly
Rivet connection:
Reinsert the pin with the chain tool

7. Checking the function

Finally, you should:

Shift through all gears once
Ensure smooth shifting
Check that the chain runs smoothly

8. Lubricating the chain

While a new chain is often lightly oiled, fresh lubrication is still recommended:

Apply chain oil evenly
Let it sit briefly
Wipe off excess oil

Common mistakes when changing a chain

❌ Incorrect chain length
❌ Chain incorrectly routed through the derailleur
❌ Incorrect chain for the gearing
❌ No re-oiling after the change

Conclusion: Chain change saves money and ensures riding fun

Changing your bike chain is quick with a little practice and saves money in the long run. Regular checks and timely replacement protect the entire gearing system and ensure a continuously smooth riding experience.

👉 Especially for frequent riders and e-bike users, it's worthwhile to master this simple maintenance task yourself.