The bicycle chain is an often overlooked part of the bicycle. Over time
the chain will stretch and the chain links may develop excessive play.
This will cause your bicycle to shift poorly, your gears to wear out faster, and may increase the chances that the chain will fail. A good
rule of thumb is that a chain should be replaced every year. 
You will need the following Before You Get Started:
-New Chain (Be sure it is correct for your gearing!)
-Chain Tool
Use the chain removal tool to push one of the pins out of the chain.
Turn the chain tool's crank so that it begins to push out the pin from the
chain. Be sure to keep the tool lined up with the pin. Finish pushing
the pin out and the chain will separate. Unthread the chain tool and remove
from the chain.
 On
a clean surface lay out the new chain next to the old chain. Remove chain
links so the chain is the same length as your old chain. Check the instructions
for your chain to see if it is directional. Some chains have plates that
are designed to be installed a specific direction.
It is important that you thread it through the rear derailleur correctly.
Look at the photo to the left. It needs to go around the rear
of the bottom pulley and over the front of the top pulley. Thread the
other end chain over the rear cogs and through the cage of the front derailleur.
It is a good idea that you check the length of the chain before you
connect the new chain. To check the length put the chain on the low (biggest)
rear cog and the high (biggest chainring) front gear.
 The
angle of the rear derailleur should be 45 degrees to the ground. See the
photo to the right. If the chain is too short you will damage the rear
if you shift into the big front/rear combination of gears. The chain needs
to be short enough so the tension keeps the chain on the cogs.
Another way to check the length is to position the chain as described
above and pinch together to chain links. If you can squeeze together two
then the tension is correct.
New chains usually have the pin started through the link plate. Join
the two end of the chain and turn the chain tool crank to press the pin.
Be careful that you press the pin in squarely into the plate and that
you do not push the pin too far. A correctly installed pin should almost
be almost flush on either side of the chain.
Check the new link to be sure that it does not bind or is too tight.
If it is twist the chain gently from side to side.
Most chains come with lube or chain wax already on them. If your hands
are clean after installing the chain you will need to lube the chain.
Your now done! Take the bike for a test ride.
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