Long Chains

[GeezerGeek]

Most recumbents have long chins. Some bikes suspend chains by adding hangers, some route the chains through tubes, and some just let them hang.

There has to be friction when a chain rubs against the inside of a tube. It takes work to turn an idler. A long freely suspended chain hangs low and bounces and so there is friction in every link. What are the advantages and disadvantages to each?

What is the best way to deal with a long chain?

[GeezerGeek]

My Infinity's chain just hangs and bounces. I never feel it touching me but at the end of every ride there is a grease stain on my ankle.

[Gary Mc]

My Greenspeed trike has both tubes and an idler wheel. I am sure that you are right in saying that some resistance has to result. But, if one is not racing I wonder if it is enough to worry about. I suspect that the trike's weight when it comes to climbing is more of an issue than tubes or idler wheels.

Gary

[BlazingPedals]

I currently have my Baron's return side chain dropped, and the power side chain tube is off. I figure I saved maybe 5W at the most, probably less. But it is lighter now and looks cool. :)

[Floyd]

Linear LWB and everyone comments on my 'long chain'. Yes, it just hangs and swings but there is no problem with it coming off the sprokets or any such thing so why be bothered with anything else added. peace

[Bikewer]

My home-built "No-Weld" job uses a complicated drive train with two chains, two cranks, etc. I was just looking at this with some string, and wondering about using one long chain. Looks like I need to route the top "drive" side so that it clears the rear triangle (It's one of those cheap rear-suspension frames) while the lower run would have to be routed to clear the fork.

I've already made a chain guide using roller-blade wheels for the regular routing.

Anyone familiar with a setup llike this that I could look at for some ideas?