Understanding Chain joining links

07/09/2017 10:30am

Chain joining links.

OK, first things first. You must only ever use the correct link for a given chain. You cannot use a link from any other different type or manufacturer’s chain and hope it will be ok because it won’t! Only the exact link supplied by the manufacturer for that particular chain will do. Most manufacturers mark the side plates of the chain with the information you need such as

AFAM 525 XHR. AFAM is the brand, 525 is the chain pitch and XHR is the chain model. Use this information to ensure you have the correct link.

There are three basic types of chain joining links. Clip links, semi rivet links and full rivet links.

Clip links use a side plate which is a sliding fit, is assembled with your fingers and is held in place with a U shaped clip on the outside of the link. The closed end of the U shaped clip needs to be fitted facing the chain driving direction. Depending on the make and type of chain they are safe to around 45 bhp. These days they are mainly used on relatively low power and smaller bikes.

Semi rivet links use a side plate that has to be pressed on with a tool but is then retained with a U shaped clip link. These are used in more moderate power bikes where a full rivet link is not needed and a full riveting tool is not required.

Full rivet links use a side plate that is pressed on with a tool and then you either rivet over or open out the chain pins depending on the design. Fitted correctly they are just a strong as all the other links and are permanent. They can be removed but cannot be refitted.


Tags: chainssprocketschain links