Ranking of the best bike chain scraps for 2020

Cyclists often experience transmission breakdowns. To replace an old broken chain or fit a new one, you can, of course, use the tools at hand in the old fashioned way. Or just buy pomace. The compact and lightweight device fits into a belt bag and will help eliminate breakage even in the field.

What is squeeze for?

It will help to adjust the chain in length (add, remove links), replace if necessary. Facilitates the care of consumables - lubrication, cleaning. It will take just a few minutes to eliminate the breakdown.

Advice: In addition, it is worth carrying gloves with you. No one has yet succeeded in replacing the chain and not getting dirty.

How to use

There is nothing complicated. The first time, you may have to spend a little more time. The tool is not difficult to use, but requires some skill.

Disconnecting the chain

To disconnect the chain, you need to "extrude" one connecting rod. It is important not to touch the connector pin (depending on the manufacturer). It differs in appearance from the rest, so it will not be difficult to figure it out. Then fix the link in the tool recess.

If there are two teeth (nests), then the chain is located closer to the screw. After that, it remains to carefully tighten the screw, squeezing out the retainer. During operation, it is necessary to control the position of the chain (no distortions, pressure on the link, instead of the latch) should not be. That's it - the chain has been removed.

Tip: do not overdo it, if the pin is "squeezed" to the end, it will be very difficult to put it in place. The procedure will require a lot of time and wasted nerves. So it is worthwhile to proceed carefully.

How to connect

To begin with, you should choose a chain that matches the width for a particular brand of bike. Depends on the number of stars on the cassette, the more there are, the smaller the width. To adjust the length, you need to remove several links (recommended dimensions are indicated by the manufacturer).

If you plan to install a lock, then another link is removed as a plus. It is better to use a new pin (if not included, you should buy it).

For correct installation, the bike speed switches must be set to their minimum value. Then start the chain through the switch frame. It is important to ensure that the rollers are correctly positioned. On the top - on the right, on the bottom - on the left. After that, install the link to be connected into the groove, fix it and press the new pin into place by turning the screw, until it is aligned with the edges of the chain.

After that, it remains to check that the connected link bends freely. If the move is tight, then again you can use squeeze.Place the chain in the second notch on the tool (located farther from the screw) and push the pin out a little in the opposite direction. Or simply bend in different directions with your hands until fully straightened.

Will the lock help you avoid problems?

It is believed that the installation of special locks makes it much easier to care for the transmission of a bicycle. On the one hand, replacing or removing a chain with a lock is really much easier and faster. At the same time without the use of tools and a spare pin. As many chain manufacturers indicate that the pressed pin cannot be reused. The fact is that breaks are possible at the joints.

Another plus is the ease of cleaning (especially for those who use paraffin wax instead of bicycle chain lubricant)

Among the shortcomings - replacing consumables on multi-speed bicycles without using the tools at hand will still not work. One more point - the lock connection is much inferior in strength to conventional links, so the chain most often breaks at the lock. Another drawback is that buying a new lock in a regular store is quite problematic, and the cost of some locks is comparable to the price of a good squeeze.
In any case, regardless of the design of the chain, a compact and convenient tool is worth buying.

How to choose

Here, as when choosing any tool, you should pay attention to:

1. Purpose - the manufacturer usually indicates for which chains the squeeze is intended. Pay attention to restrictions. Universal clamps may not work with chains with hollow clips.
2. Metal is better if it is alloyed or hardened steel. It is stronger and, accordingly, will last longer. If the manufacturer saved money and used silumin, then the squeeze may break during the first use (as a rule, the teeth and the pressure pin are most often affected). So you shouldn't consider models cheaper than 200 rubles.
3. Construction - Inexpensive models are not equipped with a stop, so it is more difficult to work with them. It is worth paying attention to the presence of overlays on the screw, which, when rotating, will prevent strong metal pressure on the hand. It is great if the tool is equipped with an additional hook holder that will fix the links.
4. The material of the striker or pin that presses on the pin when screwing in / out.
5. Price - If you rarely use your bike, you should buy an inexpensive tool. Squeeze, even for a modest 150-300 rubles, will do its job perfectly. But if the bike is used intensively, including over long distances, then it is better to buy a more expensive model that will not let you down even in the field.
6. Customer reviews - it is better to look at special forums.

Well, and, of course, the country of origin. By the way, Chinese pomace in the price segment (from 450 rubles) is not much inferior to branded counterparts.

Tip: It makes sense to order tools on a well-known Chinese trading platform if there are big discounts. Online and offline prices for pomace are almost the same.

Below is a rating of pomace in different price categories. From affordable - suitable for novice cyclists to professional ones that are used in specialized workshops.

Ranking of the best bike chain scraps for 2020

BIKE HAND YC-327

BIKE HAND is a Taiwanese bicycle brand. The company has registered many patents for the production of reliable tools and consumables. Despite the democratic prices, there are no particular complaints about the quality. Plus ergonomic design and quality materials. As for the BIKE HAND YC-327, it's just a good device without a stop. Simple, fully collapsible design. The body length is only 5.5 cm. Compact and reliable assistant for ridiculous money. Suitable if you need to squeeze the chain links for later disconnection.

Important: not compatible with wide BMX chains

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel;
Cost - from 160 rubles in the online store;
Customer rating - 4.0.

• price;
• hardened steel striker;
• reliability;
• manufacturer's warranty.

• the handle is turned;
• minor defects are possible (sagging, shavings on the thread).

STG YC-329

Another tool from BIKE HAND. The squeeze is equipped with a stop for easy fixation. Suitable for all brands of chains. The price is reasonable, but it can be difficult to use. First, there is a backlash in the release rod (distortions are possible when installing the pin). Secondly, the low quality of the metal. Many buyers expressed the opinion that the manufacturer used a cheaper alloy instead of hardened steel. In general, according to users of STG "YC-329" is a good tool for its price, therefore it is included in the review.

Country-brand - Taiwan, manufacturer - China;
Material - steel is indicated on the package;
Price - from 400 rubles;
Customer rating (average across several resources) - 4.1.

• inexpensive, useful tool;
• convenient lock, links do not need to be supported by hands;
• plastic stops on the screw;
• compact size, light weight.

• requires careful handling due to the fragility of the metal.

Gros

Equipped with a stop for securing the links. Convenient and easy to operate. Suitable for replacing even several links (for example, when shortening, replacing). The robust rotary valve will allow the retaining rod to be squeezed out even in the field.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel, plastic;
Price - from 350 rubles (with a discount);
Customer rating - 3.9.

• price-quality ratio;
• reliability;
• good quality materials.

• not.

Nautilus II (BTL-05)

From the BBB brand. It is positioned as a professional tool. Non-slip rubber handle, the ability to adjust the tool to the size of the link (including 11 speed). Compact size and easy to use. An indispensable tool for long-distance cyclists. Spare pin included.

Brand country - Holland;
Material - steel, rubber;
Price - from 1000 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.1.

• convenient use;
• suitable for any chain thickness;
• non-slip handles;
• compact size.

• price.

VSI 38 Sport by Vinca

From a Russian brand that supplies consumables, tools and accessories for cycling. The company cooperates with manufacturers in China and Europe. VSI 38 combines a direct pull and a 14 / 15G spoke wrench. Simple and reliable design, screw with plastic tips. The squeeze is made of steel, suitable for repairs, both at home and in the workshop.

Brand country - Russia, manufacturer - China;
Material - stainless steel, plastic;
Cost - 350 rubles;
Customer reviews - 3.9.

• price;
• simple design - nothing to break;
• can replace the spoke key.

• there are no significant ones, but, like all pomace in this price category, it requires careful handling.

KL-9724BL

From Chinese brand STG. Compact and comfortable with an ergonomic non-slip handle. Despite the miniature size, it does its job perfectly. Reasonable price and good quality.

Country of brand and production - China;
Material - aluminum, steel, plastic;
Price - from 300 rubles;
Customer rating - 5.0.

• compactness;
• good quality;
• suitable for home renovation;
• great price.

• not.

MIGHTY

Made of alloy steel. Universal tool with an additional holder - useful for fixing open links. Thanks to the rubberized handle, it does not slip out of hands, it is convenient to use. Suitable for all circuits (repair, adjustment, tuning). An additional pin is supplied in the kit.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel;
Price - from 800 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.3.

• versatility;
• high-quality body material;
• ease of use.

• there may not be a spare pin in the package;
• according to buyers, the price is still overpriced, although many say that the tool does an excellent job.

TOPEAK

Universal squeeze. Suitable for servicing high-speed bicycles (up to 12, Campagnolo - 11), including consumables with hollow pins. Hollow handle with hook-holder twists out for compact and convenient storage. Equipped with an additional hole for breaking the closing pin. The construction is reliable and rigid.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel alloy with addition of molybdenum and chromium;
Cost - from 700 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.9.

• rigid, reliable construction;
• universality, also compatible with Shimano UG.

• no limiters;
• the screw is smooth - may slip during operation.

Bike Hand YC-396

Professional, versatile tool. Ergonomic non-slip handles, customizable design. Also suitable for Shimano (11 speeds). Includes small pliers designed to separate the links. Will help out when replacing a worn transmission and when the chain breaks. YC-396 has earned good reviews, including from experts - the tool is used even in workshops.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel;
Price - from 1600;
Customer rating - 4.9.

• robust construction;
• high quality steel;
• versatility;
• suitable for professional use;
• pliers included.

• the only significant drawback is the price.

Birzman damselfly universal

A compact tool with an unusual design. Compatible with 5-12 speed bike consumables and 3/32, 1/8 "single speed bikes. The patented Smart Cradle System technology allows the skid plate to be adjusted to the chain width for a snug fit. The ergonomic handle allows the links to be released even with little effort.

Country of origin - Germany;
Material - stainless steel;
Price - from 2200 rubles;
Customer rating - 5.0.

• reliability;
• compactness and unusual, functional design;
• great quality.

• not.

Topeak ninja c

An unusual tool. The squeeze handles simultaneously act as steering caps (suitable for bars with a minimum diameter of 16.5 mm, a maximum diameter of 20 mm). Suitable for replacing and repairing consumables on high-speed bikes (Campagnolo - 11). Plus pin compartment, hook and 4mm Allen key.

Brand country - Taiwan;
Material - steel, plastic;
Price - from 2200 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.1.

• does not require storage space;
• convenient transportation;
• maximum configuration for a miniature device;
• reliability.

• price.

Super chian tool

From TOPEAK, it combines: hex, squeeze and locking hook. Fits most transmissions (up to 12 speeds, excluding Campagnolo 11 with hollow pins). Manufactured from quality hardened steel. The hexagon is attached to the base with a plastic holder.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - hardened steel, plastic;
Price - from 1200 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.3.

• ease of use;
• versatility;
• quality materials.

• not.

Bike Hand YC-285

Foldable model with hexagons included (size 4/5/6). Suitable for those who use a bike from time to time. Doesn't take up much space in your bag and fits easily into your jeans pocket.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel, plastic;
Price - from 550 rubles.

• manufacturer's warranty;
• functionality;

• plastic case;
• miniature size - not very convenient to work.

A bicycle chain wringer is a really useful tool. At a relatively low cost, it can greatly facilitate bike repairs even at home.