Here's an easy recommendation

[bironi]

Please recommend a chain wear measuring tool.
I've relied on my mechanic for years, but it's time to do it myself.
Thanks much in advance.

[SlowPokePete]

I keep my chain and drivetrain clean and well lubricated with NFS.

They are also relatively cheap, so I just replace them every 1,500 miles or so.

SPP

[Chik]

This article may be of interest: https://cyclingtips.com/2019/08/bicy...ecking-for-it/

I happily use the the Park CC-4 and the tool-free method mentioned at the start of the article. However, I can't provide any data to back up why I think they are good enough.

That said, I've noticed that since I started using NFS, the lifespan of my chains has extended substantially. I used to swap them out approximately every 3000km, with checks also suggesting that it was time to replace them. I haven't kept tab on where I am with the 2 main bikes, but they are well over 3000km now and still passing the checks with flying colours, no sluggishness in shifting.

[Too Tall]

Rohloff. What I appreciate about it is how easily I'm able to see progressive wear.

https://www.rohloff.de/en/products/tools

[blitespeed]

Rohloff.

https://www.rohloff.de/en/products/tools

Those look like very nice quality tools. Thanks for the reference.

[rwsaunders]

Good article Chik...here’s a quick video of using the CC-4, featuring Park Tool video star, Calvin Jones.

https://www.parktool.com/product/chain-checker-cc-4

[Chik]

Ok, I have no idea why, but I totally lied about using the Park CC-4... I'm using the Shimano TL-CN42. I knew that I have the "newer version" but got the make and model mixed up. Getting old?

[DBordewisch]

Concur with the above use the Park CC-4 daily in the shop. I have the newer Shimano for home use. Both work well.

[Chik]

I've read that Campag chains cannot be checked with one of the tools and something about using calipers. Could someone please explain this in plain English? Are Campag chains structurally different?

[rwsaunders]

I've read that Campag chains cannot be checked with one of the tools and something about using calipers. Could someone please explain this in plain English? Are Campag chains structurally different?

That’s what Campag states on their tech document, but perhaps someone can chime in...see page 7.

https://www.campagnolo.com/media/fil...ev00_09_16.pdf

[bigbill]

That’s what Campag states on their tech document, but perhaps someone can chime in...see page 7.

https://www.campagnolo.com/media/fil...ev00_09_16.pdf

Inside caliper, preferably a digital version. Put it in the right number of links and dial it tight. Seems like a go/no go. I've got one, the regular checkers or measuring pin to pin with a ruler doesn't work that well with campy 11-12. They don't stretch, they wear from the inside.

[claritycycler]

This article may be of interest: https://cyclingtips.com/2019/08/bicy...ecking-for-it/

Very good article, thanks.

[Will Neide]

I don't bother checking until I start to notice a difference in shifting. Then I usually use a ruler. I just keep it clean and lubed (NFS only).

[progetto]

I don't bother checking until I start to notice a difference in shifting. Then I usually use a ruler. I just keep it clean and lubed (NFS only).

Ruler doesn't work, the rollers and pins are what wear, plates only minimally.

[hugh]

Park CC 3.2. Lube with NFS. Replace chain (shimano 105 level) at 0.75% 'stretch' which is normally 7000km. Replace cassette after 3 chains.

[Lionel]

No need for a tool replace at 5000km or less.

[bironi]

Thank you for the recommendations.
I should have mentioned a few specifics:
I ride year round in the wet PNW.
I ride a fixed gear with 1/8th inch Chainring/cog.
I use NFS.
I don't take note of my mileage, haven't used a computer in years.

[Lionel]

Thank you for the recommendations.
I should have mentioned a few specifics:
I ride year round in the wet PNW.
I ride a fixed gear with 1/8th inch Chainring/cog.
I use NFS.
I don't take note of my mileage, haven't used a computer in years.

Given that, change every 6 months.

[Chik]

That’s what Campag states on their tech document, but perhaps someone can chime in...see page 7.

https://www.campagnolo.com/media/fil...ev00_09_16.pdf

I've read the 132.6 mm figure elsewhere too. What I don't understand is why the various tools that supposedly work on chains made by others are not suitable for Campag, especially given that the pitch and the points of wear are, I assume, identical, viz., the OD and ID of rollers.

[Chik]

Thank you for the recommendations.
I should have mentioned a few specifics:
I ride year round in the wet PNW.
I ride a fixed gear with 1/8th inch Chainring/cog.
I use NFS.
I don't take note of my mileage, haven't used a computer in years.

I think the lifting-off-the-chainring test is sufficient. What sort of chain are you using? Unlike KMC et al, Izumi Super Toughness keeps going seemingly forever. High initial outlay, but it delivers much higher value. Similar, crap weather over here, but you can easily go over 10000 km on it with NFS - I know you mentioned not using a computer.