How do you change the chains on your bicycle?

Question

How do you change the chains on your bicycle?

Answer 1

It's called a chain tool, they're pretty nifty! be careful when you use them, you don't want to push the pin all the way out. leave just enough so that it still hangs on. measure your chain so you know how long the new chain should be. Same deal, when shortening the chain, don't push the pin right out. They are nearly impossible to get in again. This is where a powerlink (quicklink) comes in handy, they let you take apart a chain without a chain tool. (you still need to use a chain tool to get it the right length, though

Answer 2

Your chain has a specific link that you can push a pin out of. There is a hand held tool that will push the pin out. You can buy it at a local bike shop for $10 or so. Switch the chain and you can push the pin back in.

Answer 3

Assuming that you have the correct replacement chain, (link length and width REALLY matter). Just remove the old chain with a "chain puller tool".  This is a small, hand held tool that you fit between the open spaces of one link, make sure the push-rod is squarely, butted-up against the pin.  Crank until the pin is evenly pushed though.  Now you can separate and remove the chain.  PAY ATTENTION to how the chain is threaded through the rear derailleur. Or look at another bike for reference.   Use the same method, in reverse to reconnect the new chain, at the open link.

This assumes that your new chain is the correct type and length.  To figure this out is another question.