[qmsdc15]

If you don't want to buy the special pliers, try the method in the link posted above. It works really well.

Rojas, When I began using master links, Taya chains and Sachs (did Sachs chains become Sram chains?) the instructions were to not reuse the master link, and the chains came with an extra master link or two. Lately from what I've read, people are reusing the links, and I don't think Sram is discouraging doing so except for the ten speed chains.

I never install a used chain on my bike. When I remove a chain, it goes into the recycling bin. I've been removing my chains with a chain tool, not at the master link, but at any random pin, and discarding the whole thing. I've only recently learned of this method of opening a Powerlink.

Because I replace my chains before my chain measuring tool says I should, between good and fair on a scale of new/good/fair/replace, I figure the master links are still useable and can be salvaged and carried for emergency chain repair. I always carry a spare Powerlink, somehow I have an extra one, but since the chains no longer come with extra links, the ability to remove and possible reuse the Powerlinks may come in handy.

If I ran a ten speed cassette, I wouldn't try to reuse the master link. In fact I've never reused a master link, but I think it might be OK on eight or nine speed chains.

[Possumpoint]

Question, my current bike is said to have 21 speeds. That is a combo of 7 gear sets on the the rear hub and three on the crank. Qsmdc15, you refer to chains of eight or nine speeds. Are some bikes equipped with a smaller number of gear sets or is there something else I don't understand (most likely)?

[rola643]

Originally Posted by Possumpoint

Question, my current bike is said to have 21 speeds. That is a combo of 7 gear sets on the the rear hub and three on the crank. Qsmdc15, you refer to chains of eight or nine speeds. Are some bikes equipped with a smaller number of gear sets or is there something else I don't understand (most likely)?

This should help explain things for you.
Shimano Cassettes & Freehubs

[qmsdc15]

The chain I use with my 8-speed cogsets, Sram PC870 works with 6/7/8 sped clusters according to this link. Sram PC 870 6/7/8 Speed Chain > Components > Drivetrain > Chains | Jenson USA

Chains designed for use with 5, 6,7,8 and 9 speed cassettes are all 3/32" internal width. The outer width varies, so you can't use a six speed chain with a nine speed cluster, the nine speed cogs are closer together, but as I understand it, you can use a nine speed chain on a five speed freewheel. I wouldn't though, the wider 5-speed chain will be more durable, but an 8-speed chain should work well with your 7-speed cogset. If your current chain is badly worn, you will need a new freewheel (or cassette) and possibly new cranks (or chainrings).