Thread: Chain Length
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Old 10-23-12 | 12:16 PM
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ThermionicScott
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From: CID

Bikes: 1991 Bianchi Eros, 1964 Armstrong, 1988 Diamondback Ascent, 1988 Bianchi Premio, 1987 Bianchi Sport SX, 1980s Raleigh mixte (hers), All-City Space Horse (hers)

To find the minimum chain length, loop the chain around the big chainring and 32T cog -- bypassing the rear derailleur -- and add 1". The whole system may be happier with a slightly longer chain, so if you have a reusable master link, you might start out with a chain that is a couple links longer than the above formula and see how the rear derailleur responds when you're in the small-small combination. (If the chain is too long, the lower derailleur pulley will swing up all the way, and parts will start bouncing and rubbing on each other -- not good.)
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