Working on a track-ends bike that may be getting fenders. With the current gear ratio, the chain is at the beginning or at the very end of the dropouts.

Both are probably safe-enough, but neither is very good:

* the too close location would make wheel removal difficult with a rear fender, and also the fender clearance under the brake bridge may be an issue;

* the too far location would make brake reach an issue, and the axle would be needlessly far in the dropouts. I think this option is not really any good.

So, I don't want to change cogs, but a half-link would place the wheel right where I want it, close to option 1 but far enough from the brake bridge to fit a fender without any issues. Of course that means half-link.

Long story short, I am just about ready to get the Izumi V half-link which is supposedly the cat's meow and was hoping to get some feedback on the overall decision process. Changing cogs/rings not an option I want to entertain (too expensive).

Forgot to add: the chain is the bushinged KMC D101, so I would hate to compromise an otherwise really sturdy chain. Perhaps the Izumi V half-link is not a problem (I keep telling myself?)

Yeah this is a common thing to do if you're in between chain lengths. As far as the Izumi one, someone else will have to chime in.

The Izumi V half-link is an expensive NJS part that uses a screw and nut instead of a press-pin to attach the link to the chain. It is really overkill for normal road use, and a much cheaper press-pin half-link will work fine. It is convenient when removing the chain for cleaning or any other reasons. The only reason I use one is that it came with the Izumi ESH chain I use on my track race bike.

It's expensive compared to other half-links, but not expensive in the grand scheme of things. I can get it shipped for less than $10.