Say Goodbye to Slipping Chains: A Quick Guide to Fixing Your Bicycle Woes!


There's nothing worse than cruising along on your bike, feeling the wind in your hair, only to be interrupted by that annoying slipping sound. Fear not, though! We've got your back with some simple steps to get your bicycle chain back in tip-top shape. Let's roll this out for you:

1. Stop and Assess: First things first, don't ignore the problem! When you notice your chain slipping, safely come to a stop. Ignoring it might lead to more significant issues. Take a deep breath; we're about to tackle this together.


2. Check for Wear and Tear: Inspect your chain for any signs of wear and tear. A stretched or damaged chain can lead to slipping. 


Checking your bike chain is easy! Look for rust, discoloration, or visible damage on the links. If you spot rust or tight links, it might be time for a new chain. 


You can also use a chain checker tool – if it slips in easily, your chain might be stretched and needs some care. 


A well-kept chain ensures a smooth ride, so a quick check now and then can prevent future headaches. 


To check for tight links, lift your rear wheel, pedal backward, and watch for resistance or uneven movement. 


If you find any, gently flex the chain sideways to loosen them. Regular checks keep your ride in top shape!


3.       Tighten Things Up: Loose nuts and bolts could be the culprit. Grab a wrench and check the tightness of your rear wheel nuts and quick-release skewer. Make sure your rear wheel is securely in place, minimizing the chances of chain slippage.


Note: It’s important NOT to tighten the bolts on your derailleur unless you are aware of how to use them... they need to be at light varying levels. 




4. Lubrication Liberation: A dry chain can contribute to slipping. Grab your favorite bicycle chain lubricant and generously apply it along the chain's links. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess. A well-lubricated chain will keep things moving smoothly.


We are big fans of the Canadian brand WPL. It was created in Whistler, BC... and they are a top bio-based that don't harm the environment. You can their products in our shop. 


5.       Monitor Your Gear Usage: Be mindful of your gear usage, especially when riding on rough terrain or tackling steep hills. Cross-chaining (using extreme combinations of gears) can put unnecessary stress on your chain, leading to slipping. Try to find a more suitable gear combination for the terrain you're navigating. A good practice to adopt is to change one gear at a time, let it adjust itself before you change to the next gear. 


If you are feeling more capable and wanting to explore your eBike skills… 




6. Adjust Your Derailleur: 


If your chain is still misbehaving, it's time to play with the gears. Locate the barrel adjuster on your derailleur, usually where the cable enters. 


Turn it counterclockwise to tighten the cable tension or clockwise to loosen it. While turning, continue backpeddling. Change gears after a few turns to see how it reacts. Experiment with small adjustments, notice what’s happening differently from turning in one direction to the other… and continue until your shifting feels smooth. 


Otherwise, book a time to go see your local bike mechanic, as derailleurs can be tricky and finicky. 


7. Watch Your Limits: Shift your gears through the entire range to ensure smooth transitions. 


If your chain is slipping in one specific gear, adjust the corresponding limit screws on your derailleur. 


The upper limit screw controls the outer limit, while the lower limits the inner. A little tweaking can make a world of difference. 


These are the two screws on the back of your derailleur that are very sensitive to how tightly they are wound, and only need to be ever so slightly to make a difference. 


And there you have it – a friendly guide to working your way through that pesky slipping chain.


Remember, regular maintenance is the key to a smooth and enjoyable ride. Keep those gears shifting like a dream, and happy cycling!

Share by: