bent chain links

[Dave K]

if I discover a bent chain link and the chain is relatively new, what is the standard procedure for repair?

Is there any likelihood of straightening it back to satisfactory condition?

Maybe I can just replace that link or links with the few extra links I didn't need with that chain when new?

If so, is it as simple as just using the chain-breaker tool to pop out that section and replace it with the other extra links?

[TXRAiDR]

Maybe I can just replace that link or links with the few extra links I didn't need with that chain when new?

That sounds like it would work, read below though.

If so, is it as simple as just using the chain-breaker tool to pop out that section and replace it with the other extra links?
You hit the nail on the head. Problem is, by breaking a chain continuously, you weaken the chain in the long run. Just carry a chain tool if you do. Eventually you'll need it.

From my own personal experience, don't try to fix the damaged links. Bending the cage plates in or out in order to straighten them weakens the metal and can cause you to have "pin push". I don't know any other term for it, but pin push is when the pin holes start to rip and then the chain busts. Also, by bending the plates, it might set something wrong in you cassette (the cassette will start to tear apart the cage plates).

[TechniKal]

a couple of things...

First, you can most likely just remove the link and be fine. Most of the time, chains have enough extra in them to allow you to shorten them by a link or two without worry. Just make sure you don't run big/big. If the chain is too short, there's no reason you can't add the extra links in - as long as the chain is still in good condition.

Second thing, how'd you bend the link? I've found that every chain break or disaster I've ever had (with the exception of the purchase of one crappy KMC chain, and one bad job of rejoining a chain by me) has been caused by shifting under load. When I started backing off the pedals a tad before shifting - especially up front - chain breakage and damage stopped. I have, however, heard of a big rash of chain problems with some of the most recent SRAM 9 speed chains, though. Seems that something got screwed up in manufacturing than the chains are stiffening and bending all over the place.

[Dave K]

Yea, shifting under load or during chainsuck from chain being too dry during extended outing was probably when it happened.

I've got the XTR rapid rise rear derailleur and like to downshift further sometimes on inclines. If everything's clean/tuned/lubed well it works great. Otherwise, I get ghost shifting and chainsuck and that's when I bend chainlinks.:(

[carlos]

Dave K, if you have the chain tool, swing by the mojo mag #1 and you'll have all the info you'll need.

http://bikemojo.com/mag0701.htm

and like TXRAIDR and TechniKal said, use those spare links.