My bike chain snapped on the bridge over the river last Tuesday

It was during the morning rush, about 8:15 AM, and I was putting some power down to get up the slight incline. Heard a loud crack and then just freewheeling. I had to walk it the last mile to work, which made me 25 minutes late. I keep a basic multi-tool now, but a broken link is way beyond a quick fix. What's the best thing to actually carry for a full chain failure like that?

3 comments

3 Comments

verawhite1mo ago

Just carry a quick link.

ward.jamie1mo ago

Actually, a quick link won't work if the chain is the wrong speed. You need the right one for your bike, like an 11-speed link for an 11-speed chain. I keep the right one taped to my seat post so I never forget it.

jesse_green551mo ago

That walk of shame across the bridge must have felt like ten miles. Vicky is right about the quick link, it's the only real fix for a snapped chain on the spot. I learned that the hard way after my own chain gave up halfway up Elm Street. Throw one in your bag with your multi-tool and you can be rolling again in five minutes instead of hiking.