Bicycle Mechanics - 9 speed chain-5 speed freewheel?

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phoebeisis
02-21-06, 01:49 PM
A quick question.Why will a 9 speed chain not work on a 5 speed freewheel?It fits over the cogs just fine.
My 5 speed chain has narrow openings of .100,wide openings of .180-the 5 speed cogs are about .075 thick.The 9 speed chain has narrow openings of .085" wide about .165".There would be just .010" of clearance on the cogs-is that the problem?
When I just drape the 9 speed chain over the cogs,it seems fine.Of course,shifting will probably be something else.
Why would I bother?It would be nice to just have to fool with one size chain.Thanks.Charlie

Wil Davis
02-21-06, 02:12 PM
I've used what is listed as an 8-speed chain (Shimano IG90) on 5, 6, and 7-speed cassettes - it works perfectly in all cases. I've never tried with a 9 - perhaps it's all in The Marketing… ;)

- Wil
phoebeisis
02-21-06, 03:06 PM
Will-thanks for the info-glad to hear it worked.I don't think the 8 speed has much narrower "openings" than the 9 speed.
I think the new 9 speed might have better shaped plates than the 25 year old 5 speed chains I use now.Thanks.Charlie

Eatadonut
02-21-06, 03:19 PM
9-speed chain will work on older cassette. If you've got the parts laying around, go for it. Otherwise, 8-speed chains are a little cheaper usually, go that route.