What’s the most annoying mishap you had on your bike? If you’ve ever gotten your cloth caught in the rings of the chain, then we can guess your answer. And if you haven’t, well, take measures so that you never have to face that.
A chain ring is that spiky wheel on the drive train which keeps rotating to keep the bike moving.
A chain guard is often put on it to keep it enclosed so that you don’t stay exposed to the sharp spikes. Now, do you need a chain guard on a bicycle for it to run properly?
Well, no, chain guards are not a part of the drive train. But you must get one for the sake of your own safety.
Do You Need a Chain Guard On a Bicycle
Even though chain guards aren’t a part of the drivetrain, if you have a road bike without a road bike chain guard, then you won’t be able to drive it in peace.
Now let’s expand on all the reasons in which a chain guard helps.
1. Keeps Your Fabric Out
Well, firstly, if the chainring has the guard, then your shoelaces and trousers won’t get stuck in the sprockets. This is something that will be your savior on a daily basis.
2. Holds Wheel Alignment On Rough Terrains
And if you’re wondering whether it has any other charms, well, you won’t be disappointed. It does have other advantages. For instance, when you’re cycling on unusually rough terrains where the wheels are making odd angles with the brake and derailleur hoses, the chain guard will protect you again!
It will restrict the chainring movement even when the rest of the bicycle is going through waves of irregular motion. This will keep your bike moving on its own, so you won’t have to stop and fix the gears again and again.
Let us point out that it’s particularly recommended for you to get a mountain bike chain guard if you have a mountain bike.
3. Enables Bash Guard Installation
After you put the chain guard on, you will have the attachment necessary to install a bash guard. The combination of the chain guard and the bash guard will elevate your whole biking experience overall.
So what is a bash guard, you ask? It is a guard that protects the chain itself from tiny pebbles, rocks, and stones on the ground. Get it to ensure your chain doesn’t damage when you wheel through the uneven grounds of that mysteriously winding path you found behind your street.
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Does A Chain Guard Have Any Negative Effects
Well, we have been talking about the positive effects so far. But that’s not all there is to the boat – there is a negative consequence that you have to be aware of as well. Don’t worry; this cautionary call is not for everyone.
It is only meant for you if you are on the heavier side of the weight scale. So, if you are someone who has been medically assigned to have a few bicycle hours for the sake of health, then listen up.
The chain guard will add a bit of weight to your cycle. You’ll feel it when you’re riding. You will need to exert extra force while pedaling to keep the bike running. That’s all.
The difference is relatively insignificant. You will only feel it on day 1 or day 2 of pedaling, and then you’ll get used to it.
So, we don’t think this qualifies as a reason for not installing the chain guard at all. The benefits of the chain guard far outweigh the burden of the slight weight that it adds.
Important Factors To Consider When Getting a Chain Guard
If you’re not getting a bike that comes with a built-in chain guard, then you have to keep these in mind while going out to buy one.
Size
Chain guards come in various sizes. As they are fitted over the chainring, the number of cogs on the sprockets determines your chain guard’s size. So don’t go into a shop and get any chain guard that catches your eye – consider the size first before you proceed to look into the other factors.
Build Quality
It goes without saying that the build quality is of immense importance. You don’t want a bicycle that will fall apart after a few days of rough use. So make sure to inquire about the material that it’s made of to ensure you are not paying for something brittle.
Now, you could very well get a plastic chain guard for a bicycle as well. You’d only have to make sure that the plastic used is heavy-duty and of incredible quality.
Otherwise, we’d tell you to go with a chain guard made with either aluminum or steel. They will be much more durable than a plastic one but would cost a bit more.
Lightweight
You should consider different chain guards and take their weight into account. A heavy chain guard is not necessary. Sometimes all it does is add weight. Get a chain guard that is not that heavy because you would have to carry that weight along with each pedal.
Conclusion
We hope to have addressed your concerns properly, and you’re not asking do you need a chain guard on a bicycle anymore. If you have any further queries, feel free to give us your questions. If you’re clear on this front, then so long, champ! Enjoy your rides; you’re almost free when you’re on your cycle but do watch out for other vehicles and pedestrians on the streets. Ride safe!