Bicycle Mechanics - Need to carry chain components on board?

I'm shopping for tools and parts for my new bike. What is the likelyhood of needing to repair a chain on a ride? Is it recomended to carry chain components on board? If so what should I get? I'm sure the pins come in different sizes, how do I know what size I need? The specs on my bike list the chain as 'KMC Z72NP' does that have any particular meaning other than manufacturer and part #? Thanks in advance for any advice offered.

Shabo

I carry a spare SRAM powerlink (of appropriate size/"number of speeds" for my chain) and a chain tool. I figure that if I break a link or something I can pop out the affected section and replace with the powerlink. The chain would probably get shortened (so avoid the big-big combos) but it would at least be good enough to get me home. I don't think I'd be putting in pins and stuff on the road.

I'm shopping for tools and parts for my new bike. What is the likelyhood of needing to repair a chain on a ride? Is it recomended to carry chain components on board? If so what should I get? I'm sure the pins come in different sizes, how do I know what size I need? The specs on my bike list the chain as 'KMC Z72NP' does that have any particular meaning other than manufacturer and part #? Thanks in advance for any advice offered.

Shabo

It's just a model number, apparently for an 8-speed chain.

You can't predict the likelihood of a broken chain. I've gone thousands of miles without breaking one. Other people have had them break almost as soon as they leave the shop.

I bring a chain tool and quick link when I tour, as my bike is heavily loaded, and I'll possibly be far from help. I wouldn't carry them for day rides where I could just call for help as a last resort.

A quick link and chain tool will cost < $20 at your LBS. Might not hurt to buy two links, and ask them for a section of cast-off chain to practice on. :-)

I have a multi-tool with a chain pin pusher and a master link.
I've broken chains on rides 3 or 4 times in 26 years of riding... usually it was damaged and I didn't notice beforehand.

I carry these. They don't take up much space.
Been with 2 riders that had chains break.

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/hh187/10wheels/Tire%20Repairs/SpareMasterLink.jpg

i don't want to argue with those that HAVE had chain problems on the road, because i'm sure they were an aggravation to be avoided in the future, but... in 32 years of riding as an adult and 10's of thousands of miles i have yet to have a problem (on the road) with a chain that required a tool to fix. just sayin'.

i don't want to argue with those that HAVE had chain problems on the road, because i'm sure they were an aggravation to be avoided in the future, but... in 32 years of riding as an adult and 10's of thousands of miles i have yet to have a problem (on the road) with a chain that required a tool to fix. just sayin'.

You can fix broken chains without tools?

dbshabo, I carry a mini multi tool w/chain tool and a replacement pin for my Shimano chains. I have yet to need it, but...

Brad

Most everyone carries a multi-tool that has a chain tool in it. So I also just carry a reuseable link for my chain. I personally have never had chain trouble on a ride, but have stopped and helped a couple other riders that did.

You can fix broken chains without tools?

if the chain has two masterlinks (not a bad idea to have an extra one on the chain at all times), and the bicyclist has a little luck, yes.

I've never needed to repair my own chain on the road but I've had to do it for a few other riders. I always carry a small chain tool and a couple of master links and/or repair pins. They are small and light but there is no substitute if they are needed.

Thanks for the advice y'all. I did order a multi-tool that has a chain tool on it. So these quick links, do they require a new pin/rivet to install? Very good suggestion to get a scrap piece of chain to practice on. I've been riding bikes my whole life and have never had a chain break on me.

Shabo

The master links are made with both required pins and both side plates. To install one, the chain ends to be joined must both be "inner" links.