Author Topic: What chain size for older brompton?  (Read 1866 times)

What chain size for older brompton?
« on: 15 June, 2014, 11:46:17 pm »
I need to replace the chain on the brompton I just got from my Dad, however I am not sure what size it takes, could anyone advise?

It was purchased in 1997 and has the 5 speed Sturmey Archer hub with a 50T chainring and (I think) a 13t rear.

I've tried to find out myself but can only find that unspecified 'older' bikes used 1/8" rather than 3/32" that are used on current bikes.
Up the hills and round the bends

LittleWheelsandBig

  • Whimsy Rider
Re: What chain size for older brompton?
« Reply #1 on: 16 June, 2014, 12:04:16 am »
1/8" for 5sp.
Wheel meet again, don't know where, don't know when...

Re: What chain size for older brompton?
« Reply #2 on: 16 June, 2014, 12:06:08 am »
Thanks for that.  I'm presuming that any 1/8" chain will work, or do I have to get the specific chain sold through brompton?
Up the hills and round the bends

LittleWheelsandBig

  • Whimsy Rider
Re: What chain size for older brompton?
« Reply #3 on: 16 June, 2014, 12:07:58 am »
Anything but don't use a chain link to join the chain, re-rivet it
Wheel meet again, don't know where, don't know when...

Re: What chain size for older brompton?
« Reply #4 on: 16 June, 2014, 12:11:10 am »
Aye, was planning on doing that but thanks for the heads-up.

So, this KMC chain would be fine with the removal of a few links then?
Up the hills and round the bends

rogerzilla

  • When n+1 gets out of hand
Re: What chain size for older brompton?
« Reply #5 on: 16 June, 2014, 09:05:03 pm »
Yes, but get the length the same as the old chain.  Bromptons are fussier about chain length than your average derailleur bike, because they have to be able to fold without undue slack while also not pulling the chain fully tight as the suspension flexes.
Hard work sometimes pays off in the end, but laziness ALWAYS pays off NOW.

Re: What chain size for older brompton?
« Reply #6 on: 17 June, 2014, 01:22:07 pm »
Yes, but get the length the same as the old chain.  Bromptons are fussier about chain length than your average derailleur bike, because they have to be able to fold without undue slack while also not pulling the chain fully tight as the suspension flexes.

Exactly what I was going to do :)

Ordered the KMC chain, saving of a tenner over the official brompton version.

Seems that brompton do a good line in over-priced spares and after-market parts.
Up the hills and round the bends

Re: What chain size for older brompton?
« Reply #7 on: 09 July, 2014, 02:08:28 pm »
The KMC chain works perfectly.  Saved myself a bob or two there!
Up the hills and round the bends