yiffzer

My searching has failed me. The original Le Mans 12 chain got mangled and destroyed. I cut it out and need to get a replacement. What chain size or "speeds" should I get -- 7, 8, or 9 speed? It's confusing for me.

Thanks!

Crankycrank

You can basically use any chain made for 6, 7, or 8 speeds. The number of speeds refers to the number of sprockets or "cogs" you have on your rear wheel which in your case should be 6. Save your old chain for reference when you cut your new chains length. Chains have gotten narrower over the years as the speeds have increased to allow more cogs (9-11) to fit in roughly the same width as the old 6-8 speed clusters and will not work as well on the older setups.

Bill Kapaun

I NEVER use the old chain for reference UNLESS I installed it.

Crankycrank

Good point. But if you knew it was the proper size and worked fine it should be OK. Just allows you to skip the chain fitting or link counting procedure. But yes, if you have the skills fit it properly.

dsbrantjr

Make absolutely certain that the new chain is long enough to shift to the big chainring/big cog combination without straining anything. You may also find that a new chain will skip on your old cassette/freewheel, depending upon its state of wear, which will then also need to be replaced.

SkyDog75

You've got 6 cogs on the rear wheel, so just look for a chain that says it's 6-speed compatible. Like crankycrank points out, a lot of chains are labeled as 6/7/8.

The KMC Z51 is a decent quality, inexpensive chain that would work for you. $7.99 on Amazon and free shipping for Prime members. The SRAM PC830 is another popular option. Both include a handy quick link.

Even with a quick link, you'll need a chain tool to push a pin out to "cut" the new chain to the proper length. The guys above give good advice in regard to chain length. Many sources on the Internet give more detail, including Sheldon Brown's site: Derailer Adjustment

ramzilla

KMC X8.93 or even better: KMC X8.99