The funny thing here is if you have had a chain tangle like this and took a moment to really look at it you will realize that it just isn't that hard to undo.

It's hard to put into writing but one section has doubled over itself; once you identify that section it's no big deal to straighten it out.

You don't have to break the chain, Oban or not.

it's a bit of a pain, but they do undo. i did the same thing (looks like the same number of loops too) with the chain on my 3 speed when i tried to remove bits of it for cleaning in the tub in my teeny apt. after some frustration and foul words, took a break and it just opened right up.

Get a chain tool. 5 minutes and I was back peddling. Pretty simple really.

Is the OP serious about his 'problem'? Try this: find a 'loop' in the chain and hold the loop part. Let the chain dangle and it will untwist itself. Repeat for all loops.

The chain dates back to about 1984 and according to a bicycle book I read, the recommended change interval is 3 years... ouch.

This is absolutely silly, not only because of the time spent on a simple mistake but because most of you missed one fact. If the chain is rotated 180 degrees (and the opposite side of the chain is now facing out) and then the derailleur is reattached with it in that position, it will be twisted in a way that can't be corrected without breaking the chain UNLESS you take it out of the rear derailleur and rotate it back the right way. Then it's simply a matter of bringing the two loops together to cancel each other out. Many, many newbie mechanics have made that mistake when removing a derailleur from the rear dropout and then replacing it later.

+20

If you don't have to break the chain, don't. It weakens it, and you will probably have to work out a stiff link. It might be a good idea to get a new chain though, if the freewheel is not too worn.

One word: Wipperman
https://www.connexchain.com/

Being able to successfully use a chain tool is essential to basic bicycle mechanics. Knowing how to use one properly usually won"t result in a weak pin or stiff link. https://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=25

If the "knot" is that frustrating and the chain is 23 years old...just replace it. I recommend a Wipperman stainless steel, w/ connex link (no chain tool needed). Since it's stainless it won't really rust and with proper care it might actually last 23 years. Although any chain that old = ride at your own risk.

YES!

You cannot invert/flip a bicycle chain without breaking it.** There isn't enough side play relative to the plate width. Trying to do so will result in the tangled mess pictured. (If you have the idea of extending wear by flipping it, forget it. It doesn't work that way.)

Buy a chain tool and learn to use it. Buy a new chain and use it.


** I know there are doubting thomases out there, so get a chain, make it into a loop, and try to flip it. Report pitiful failure here.

Please visit my Five Fingered Blog at https://baltimorefivefinger.blogspot.com/2010/06/un-knotting-or-unlooping-bike-chain.html . I have a picture tutorial on how to get loops out of your chain. This happened to me twice before I decided to find out why they happen and how to fix them.

You dredge up this 3 year old thread and another one year old thread as well just to SPAM your website? Nice way to make an entrance!

I once found a JaParamount Series 3 in the trash sans handlebars. I sold it for $350.

Better yet, get a chain tool and a master link.

This is a loopy situation requiring a loopy solution executed by someone in a loopy frame of mind.

A hit and a shot should get you started...

=8-)

Thank you for answering my question, however, the original post goes back to 2007 and I have repaired my chain since then.

My favorite reply was with "Alexander cuts the Gordian Knot"... you certainly have class.