Bicycle Mechanics - Chain Measuring Tool

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jolly_ross
07-12-12, 05:54 AM
http://www.velotique.com/images/cc-3.2-onchain.jpg

I can see that these tools actually measure distance between rollers. Also can see that if the rollers are different diameters on different chains (or perhaps rattle around on the pins to differing degrees) then the tool can not be measuring the distance between pins.

Are they any good at all - or should I always use a ruler?

ThermionicScott
07-12-12, 08:08 AM
A ruler is all you need.
rydabent
07-12-12, 08:22 AM
I use both but the ruler is the final answer.

BTW make sure the ruler is a high quality steel ruler.

Shimagnolo
07-12-12, 08:26 AM
http://pardo.net/bike/pic/fail-004/000.html

Short version: Only a ruler or the Shimano TL-CN40/TL-CN41 are accurate.
Yo Spiff
07-12-12, 08:27 AM
I bought one. They are cheap and quick to use. And I don't have to remember how long my links should be, though that's easy enough.

I had some sloppy shifting last year and the chain checker showed I was almost at 1% stretch. Replaced the chain and that took care of the problem. So in my case it measured reliably and accurately.
fietsbob
07-12-12, 08:34 AM
KMC makes a Digital chain measuring tool now.. for the shop.

I dont know where the OP got the idea there are different sized rollers
on bicycle chains width maybe 6>7>8>9>10>11, but not diameter .

if the roller rattles on the chain, you don't even have to measure it, its gone.