Chains for bigger chain rings?
 

Do most chains fit bigger chain rings?

I am thinking 48/17. Will most chains be able to accommodate this? Whats the solution if they don't?

any track chain or singlespeed chain should work
there are different widths to consider...3/32 or 1/8

I'm aware of the sizing width of chains I just recently saw a description of a kmc chain on a web page that says it should accommodate a gear up to 48/16. Was wondering what happens when one goes over that?

that chain may not be long enough if you go over that gear. some chains have different amounts of links they come with some 112 some 116 it all depends.

Any way to know if a chain will fit before actually putting it on the bike?

Usually sold by the chain link count. I was sold a 88 or 98.... NO WAY it was gonna fit a 44/17. Returned. Next shop had a 112... took out several links... sooooo, I think a basic KMC or any other in 112 should work... u should need roughly 4 more links... and mine is a relaxed roadie conversion. No tire at the seat tube track bike ;)

As for test fit...
Have a friend help you hold it up next to the bike... other than that, just buy the longer one, and have some spare links.

Regarding length: The size of the chain ring / cogs does not matter as they all share the same 1/2 inch pitch which matches the chain pitch of both 3/32 and 1/8 chain.

Width of the chain is an issue as you cannot run 3/32 chain on cogs and chain rings that are designed for 1/8 chain although 1/8 chain can be run on chain rings and cogs designed for 3/32.

I have never had a chain not be long enough.

there will be a little more noise with a 1/8 chain running on a 3/32 cog

Never had an issue with chain length on any mid/higher end chain. I generally ride 49/18 and always seem to have some spare links (mid-range KMC, Izumi, HKK, SRAM, DID etc) when installing new chains.

If you buy ss specific or multispeed chain it normally comes with enough links that it will fit nearly any conventional bike but BMX chain comes in shorter lengths and will not work with larger chain ring, smaller cog combos.

The KMC-SL should work fine with your bike... I had about 5-6 links left over from 46x16 and that was to get the wheel to the middle/front of the dropouts.

running street gearing with a chainring larger than 49, on a frame with a long chainstay (many conversions) might cause you to need more chain. 49x18 on 39cm stays needs 2 links out of a 116, if my memory serves.

maybe shelve any plans for a 56x21 drivetrain? or just buy two chains.

Just for reference: I have 47x16 and used a KMC Z chain and had to take a few links out.

Also, it's not solely the gearing that will determine the length of the chain, chainstay length differs among brands and can differ even between sizes which will affect the number of links needed.

You will