How to Fix Tight Bike Chain Links
Tight individual links of a bike chain are fairly common problems, but fortunately, they're also very easy to fix. You should periodically take a look at your bike chain if you want to keep everything running smoothly. Additionally, if you suspect that some of your chain links may be tight, you should inspect it. Read on to learn more.
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Instructions
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Set your bike upright against a tree or a wall, or place it on a repair stand. You don't need to power the bike to check for tight links unless you have a fixed-gear bicycle.
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Pedal the bike backwards slowly with your hands. Have it in a small gear in the rear to reduce tension on the chain.
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Look at the chain as it passes over the chainring and back to the cogs, or as it passes off the derailleur. Every link of the chain should pass over smoothly; a tight link is simple to identify as it sticks up and appears different from the rest.
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Move the chain around until the tight link you found is in the low, open section. Spray or dribble a little lube on it. Give it a moment to work in, then grab the bike chain on either side of the tight link with your hands or with a rag.
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Work the chain laterally back and forth gently. Press with your thumbs and pull with your forefingers. Be very careful not to bend the side plates that make up the links, as that ruins the chain. Crank it around and see if it's fixed.
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Use a chain tool if you're unable to fix the tight bike chain link via this method. Hook the chain tool up to the tight link and give the handle a small turn, no more than a quarter of a full revolution.
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Press the pin back into place with the chain tool from the other side, then go a partial turn in the other direction. Repeat this process until the tight link loosens up.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep your bike chain well-lubricated and clean, and you're less likely to have to deal with tight links. You should still periodically inspect for them, though.
