stiff link

[XmisterIS]

I fitted my chain myself about 2 years ago and only had to tighten it once since. It's a decent quality X-ring chain and I changed the sprockets at the same time.

I've just given the bike a thorough clean I an notice that one of the links is a little stiff.

Three questions:

1) What causes this?

2) What's the best way to fix it?

3) Most importantly, how can I best prevent it from happening in the future? I'm thinking Scottoiler (or equivalent) to make sure the chain is always well lubed.

[megawatt]

1/ Usually lack of proper cleaning and re-lubing

2/ You can't. You can free it off by slackening the chain as much as possible or removing back wheel. Grip stiff link with mole grips and twist it in both directions a few times. This will temporarily free it off, but it will re-stiffen.

3/ See answer 1/. Don't need a Scottoiler, just clean with paraffin, dry with brake cleaner on a rag and re-lube. Clean every month and lube after every rideout or 200 miles.

[Stu]

actually using a chain tool and pushing the rivet back and forth will loosen it

I have done it before with no problems you only need a little movement so you dont push it out

you do have a little play on the rivets

[XmisterIS]

Thanks both. I think the chain now has about 12 miles on it, time for a new one? I do tend to ride "robustly" ...

[Stu]

I'm guessing you mean 12k

If you feel you need a new one then replace it