Removing chain links requires a chain tool and takes about five minutes
To remove links from your bicycle chain, you need a chain tool (also called a chain breaker) — a small, inexpensive device that pushes the pin out of a link. The process is straightforward: position the chain tool over the pin you want to remove, turn the handle to push the pin out partway, then remove the tool and push the pin the rest of the way by hand or with pliers. The chain will then separate at that link. If you need to remove multiple links, repeat the process for each one.
This task comes up when your chain is too long for your bike, when you're replacing a damaged section, or when you're cleaning the chain thoroughly. The chain tool works the same way whether you're removing one link or five — you're just repeating the same motion at different points along the chain.
Key Takeaways
- A chain tool costs $10 to $30 and is the only tool you really need; you can do this job without a bike stand, though one makes it easier.
- Push the pin out only partway with the tool, then finish by hand — pushing it all the way through can make it hard to reinstall later.
- Count your links before you start removing them, because a chain that's too short cannot be fixed without buying a new one.
- After removing links, you'll need to reconnect the chain by pushing the pin back in, which uses the same chain tool in reverse.
What you need before you start
You'll need a chain tool — the most common type is the Park Tool CT-5 or a similar model from any bike brand. The tool has a handle, a body with a hole for the chain, and a screw that you turn to push a pin into the chain. Most chain tools cost between $10 and $30. If you don't own one, a bike shop will remove links for $5 to $15, which is cheaper than buying the tool if you only need it once.
Beyond the tool, have a pair of pliers nearby — needle-nose or regular work fine. You'll use them to pull the pin the rest of the way out once the chain tool has pushed it partway. A bike stand or a way to hold the bike steady makes the job much easier, but you can do it without one by laying the bike on its side or having someone hold it.
Lay out your chain on a clean surface or keep it on the bike. Either way, you need to see which link you're removing and have room to work around it.
The step-by-step process for pushing out a pin
First, decide which link you're removing. Count from one end of the chain to make sure you're removing the right number of links — this is your only chance to get it right. Mark the link with a marker or tape if it helps you keep track.
Place the chain into the chain tool's hole so the pin you want to remove lines up with the tool's push screw. The chain should sit flat in the tool, with the pin pointing straight at the screw. Close the tool's handle or clamp to hold the chain steady.
Turn the screw handle clockwise slowly. You'll feel resistance as the screw pushes against the pin. Keep turning until the pin has moved about halfway out of the chain link — you should see it sticking out on the other side. Stop turning at this point. Do not push the pin all the way through with the tool, because a pin that's completely removed is harder to line up and push back in later.
Remove the chain from the tool. Use your pliers to grab the pin and pull it the rest of the way out by hand. The chain link will now separate. If you're removing more than one link, repeat this process at the next link you want to remove.
Common mistakes that make the job harder
The biggest mistake is pushing the pin all the way out with the chain tool. Once the pin is completely gone, it's straightforward to lose it, and reinserting it becomes much harder because you have to line it up perfectly by hand. Pushing it out halfway and finishing with pliers gives you a pin that's still partially seated and much easier to work with later.
Another common error is removing too many links. Count twice before you start. A chain that's too short cannot be lengthened — you'll have to buy a new chain. A chain that's slightly too long can be shortened further, so if you're unsure, remove fewer links first and test the fit on your bike.
Don't force the chain tool. If the screw is hard to turn, the pin may not be lined up correctly in the tool's hole. Stop, reposition the chain, and try again. Forcing it can strip the screw or bend the tool.
How to reconnect the chain after removing links
Once you've removed the links you need, you have to push the pin back in to reconnect the chain. This is the reverse of the removal process. Line up the two chain ends so the hole in one link aligns with the pin hole in the other. Place the chain back into the tool with the pin pointing at the screw.
Turn the screw clockwise to push the pin back into the link. Push it in until it's flush with the chain — the pin should stick out equally on both sides. You may feel a slight click or resistance as the pin seats fully. Once it's in, remove the chain from the tool and check that the link moves freely. If it's stiff, the pin may not be fully seated; put it back in the tool and push a tiny bit more.
Test the chain by hand — it should bend and flex smoothly without any tight spots. If one link is stiffer than the others, that's normal and usually loosens up after a few pedal strokes.
When to remove links versus buying a new chain
Remove links if your chain is too long for your current setup — for example, if you've changed your crankset or rear sprocket and the chain now has too much slack. Removing one to four links is a normal maintenance task.
Buy a new chain if your chain is damaged (bent, rusted, or has a broken link that won't reconnect), if you need to remove more than five links, or if the chain is old and worn. A worn chain stretches over time, and removing links from a stretched chain often leaves you with a chain that's still too long. In that case, a new chain is the better choice.
If you're not sure whether your chain is too long, shift to the smallest chainring in front and the smallest sprocket in back, then pull the derailleur forward. There should be about one inch of slack in the chain. If there's much more, you need to remove links.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a chain link without a chain tool?
Not easily. A hammer and punch can push a pin out in an emergency, but you risk bending the pin or damaging the chain. A chain tool is designed for this job and costs less than a single bike shop visit. If you only need to remove links once, borrowing a tool from a friend or a local bike co-op is faster than improvising.
What if the pin breaks while I'm removing it?
A broken pin means that link is ruined and you'll have to remove the entire link, not just shorten it. You'll lose two links instead of one. This usually happens if you force the tool or if the chain is very old and brittle. Work slowly and stop if you feel unusual resistance.
How do I know how many links to remove?
Shift to your smallest chainring and smallest sprocket, then pull the rear derailleur forward by hand. Measure the slack — it should be about one inch. Count the extra links and remove that many. If you're unsure, remove fewer links first, test the chain on the bike, and remove more if needed.
Is the chain tool the same for all bike chains?
Most chain tools work on standard bicycle chains, but some specialty chains (like those on single-speed or fixed-gear bikes) may need a different tool. Check your chain's width — a standard road or mountain bike chain is 3/32 inch wide, and most tools handle that size. If your chain is wider or narrower, ask at a bike shop which tool fits.
Can I reuse the pin I removed?
Yes, if you removed it carefully and it's not bent. Keep it in a safe place while you work. When you reconnect the chain, push the same pin back in. If the pin is bent or damaged, you'll need a replacement pin, which comes in chain tool kits or can be bought separately for a few dollars.