Not my experience. I use a power link on my chains to take them off for cleaning (in theory weekly, but in reality every 1-3 weeks). Only once have I had to use pliers. When chain cleaning, I use latex gloves. Perhaps that lets me get a little better grip.

I'm from northeastern MA originally, so I'm used to the rotary thing.

They are putting in small roundabouts here in Grand Junction, CO. Lots of people complain about them, but I can't see what the problem is.

I actually find rotaries more negotiable, in general, on a bicycle than in a car. In a car they're awful at times because so many people are confused by them that they often slow or stop unnecessarily or abruptly.

I'm a chain tool carrier but the last time I went to use mine I realized it was so old and the drive pin was loose and bent. So, if you carry one don't be like me carry one that's in good shape. And I find any chain problem to be a real bear when my hands are cold or it's freezing out.

edit: oh the pliers thing... if I need them I carry a Leatherman juice CS4- good for sawing unruly branches on the bike path and opening bottles of wine as well.

I went through the same rotary during my three year stint living off LaGrange St. in Chestnut Hill. Never had a problem negotiating traffic as long as I was assertive and signalled my intentions. Entering was actually easier than exiting; I usually waited for an 'escort' to get into the rotary but you had to signal very clearly when you were exiting so cars entering would yield.

As for the chain thing; I change my chains pretty often to avoid having them wear out my chainrings and cassettes. The only time I had one break was offroad riding during a particularly hard shift.

Last year I was riding with a friend who was just starting to learn about riding in traffic.

We were on the right getting ready to turn right out of a rotary. I was in the lead. I gave a clear right turn signal. Just as I did, she suggested going another way. As she did, she gave a perfect left turn signal by pointing in the direction she was suggesting. I heard a little car tire squeal, and a beep. I don't know exactly what happened. But there was no crash. I think she learned her lesson. She was so upset we had to stop for a while. Not the fault of the rotary. Just scary.