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  • Chain tool

    From Mark J cleary@mcleary08@comcast.net to rec.bicycles.tech on Mon Aug 3 18:13:43 2026
    From Newsgroup: rec.bicycles.tech

    I use a Park CT 5 compact which works but a bit of struggle at time just not enough beef in it. Can someone recommend a better one that
    deals with up to 11 speeds and not grossly expensive much just easier to
    twist out. Also. is there any chain checker worth the money or just just
    a machinist metal ruler to check stretch. I use a very precise machinist
    ruler but maybe something else easier? I have heard chain checker are notorious for being off telling you a new chain has stretch.
    --
    Deacon Mark

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  • From AMuzi@am@yellowjersey.org to rec.bicycles.tech on Mon Aug 3 19:12:09 2026
    From Newsgroup: rec.bicycles.tech

    On 8/3/2026 6:13 PM, Mark J cleary wrote:
    -a-a-a-aI use a Park CT 5 compact which works but a bit of
    struggle at time just not enough beef in it. Can someone
    recommend a better one that deals with up to 11 speeds and
    not grossly expensive much just easier to twist out. Also.
    is there any chain checker worth the money or just just a
    machinist metal ruler to check stretch. I use a very precise
    machinist ruler but maybe something else easier? I have
    heard chain checker are notorious for being off telling you
    a new chain has stretch.

    My friend Pardo did a nice page on the subject of chain wear
    tools:

    http://www.pardo.net/bike/pic/fail-004/000.html#commercial-wear-measuring-tools

    We use the Speed Tech because it's quick and can be shown to
    the customer clearly at eye level. It's a sort of "Go-NoGo"
    gauge with 2 extra data points.

    I'm presently using this chain tool:

    https://www.bikehand.com/en/product-330253/Adjustable-chain-remover-YC-324SC.html

    Two years in, no complaints. It's hefty at 310 grams. Main
    handle 4 inches, wings 4 inches total. Has smooth positive
    action on tight 11/12sp rivets. Retail $39.95 Unlike multi
    function and 'mini' tools, this is not a toy.

    For classic (4,5,6,7sp) chain, I still use a VAR #303 but
    it's not useful on later flush-rivet chain.

    N.B. even with a nice quality chain tool, do not try to
    reinstall or rejoin a flush rivet chain (8, 9, 10, 11, 12,
    13sp) with a rivet. Use the correct snap link only, or a
    chain manufacturer's proprietary break-off special rivet.
    --
    Andrew Muzi
    am@yellowjersey.org
    Open every day since 1 April, 1971
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  • From zen cycle@funkmasterxx@hotmail.com to rec.bicycles.tech on Tue Aug 4 05:49:45 2026
    From Newsgroup: rec.bicycles.tech

    On 8/3/2026 7:13 PM, Mark J cleary wrote:
    -a-a-a-aI use a Park CT 5 compact which works but a bit of struggle at time just not enough beef in it. Can someone recommend a better one that
    deals with up to 11 speeds and not grossly expensive much just easier to twist out. Also. is there any chain checker worth the money or just just
    a machinist metal ruler to check stretch. I use a very precise machinist ruler but maybe something else easier? I have heard chain checker are notorious for being off telling you a new chain has stretch.

    I've had a Park CT-3 for nearly two decades, no complaints, I might have
    paid $20 at the time. Sadly it's no longer made, but the replacement has
    an adjustable width, AND it's currently on sale.

    https://www.parktool.com/en-us/product/chain-tool-ct-3-2?

    I'm pretty sure it will be the last chain tool you'll ever need. Get it
    while it's hot!
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  • From =?UTF-8?B?Y3ljbGludG9t?=@cyclintom@yahoo.com to rec.bicycles.tech on Tue Aug 4 20:02:34 2026
    From Newsgroup: rec.bicycles.tech

    On Tue Aug 4 05:49:45 2026 zen cycle wrote:
    On 8/3/2026 7:13 PM, Mark J cleary wrote:
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