Jake_M

A couple of days ago on my ride to school I felt a chain skip. I got off, checked it and couldn't replicate it on the side of the road. It persisted and came more frequently until I stopped at a friend's to recruit some help.

A buddy and I finally figured out that it looks like the problem is a stiff link, or a link that's not bending around the rear gear. We used a chain tool and pulled off the side of the link that felt like it was keeping it from turning. I wiped it off, put it back on, oiled it and it seemed to work as I rode home.

Then this morning about 6 miles into my morning commute it started again. About every third pedal stroke it feels like its skipping--that's the best way I can describe it. I'm guessing its the same thing--the stiff link that's not turning. In other gears, that don't require the chain to bend as tightly it works better, but I don't usually use those gears. Replacing the chain would most likely be the best option, and I could get it done later this week, but I'd really like for it to be a last resort. Any advice for fixing this myself?

Thanks in advance.

WillisB

Twist the chain back and forth at the tight link to loosen it up and shown at the bottom of the page below.


https://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=53

p4nh4ndle

that will work, but a chain tool is quicker and neater if you've got one

tellyho

I actually think the chain tool is overkill for the stiff link.

wmodavis

Following the Park Tool method (https://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=53) is definitely the easiest way

mtnbk3000

i fixed this yesterday, the flkex the chain method didn't work, however the turn the chaintool 1/4 rotation worked perfectly