3.7 drivetrain

Quick Link Installation

Quick Link Installation. Step-by-step procedure for bike maintenance — tools, time, and what to watch out for.

Difficulty ★☆☆ easy
Time ~3 min
Applies to All bikes (with quick-link chain)

Tools

  • Standard workshop tools

Procedure

  1. Insert each half of the quick link

    into the open ends of the chain (one half per side, oriented so the pin holes face outward).

  2. Mate the two halves

    together so the pins go through the slotted holes.

  3. Place on the upper run of the chain

  4. Apply chain tension

    — either by pedaling forward against the rear brake, or by stepping on the pedal with the rear brake locked.

  5. Listen for the click

    as the link snaps into the locked position. You can also pull the chain on either side to confirm engagement.

  6. Visually verify

    the link is fully seated and matches the others.

Most modern quick links are reusable a handful of times but eventually the snap-fit weakens. SRAM specifies single-use for some grades. When in doubt, install a fresh one.