eBike Chain- The Ultimate Guide to Electric Bike Chains
Years ago, while biking, I came across a frustrated eBike rider working on repairing a broken chain. I was clueless about e-bikes at that time, so I assumed I couldn’t help him. While riding away, I wondered, do e-bikes need special chains?
As a general rule, not all electric bikes need special chains. Some electric bikes use standard chains like those used for traditional bicycles, while others require special chains. The need for special chains depends on factors such as the location of your e-bike’s motor and primary usage.
Throughout this article, we’ll tackle the difference between standard and eBike-specific chains, the life span of e-bike chains, their maintenance, and other questions related to e-bike chains.
Do eBikes Need Special Chains?
As a general rule, not all electric bikes need special chains, though some e-bikes may require them. For instance, electric bikes with mid-drive motors require stronger, special chains, while e-bikes with hub-drive motors can use any standard chain.
Electric bikes with mid-drive motors need special chains because these motors put extra stress on the chains, making the chains wear out more quickly. You may also consider using special chains on electric mountain bikes because their chains are commonly subjected to stressors like jumps, mud, and steep terrains.
Though traditional bicycle chains have always been used on electric bicycles, there are now chains being manufactured that are specifically designed for electric bikes. The importance of using eBike-specific chains varies based on factors like the location of the e-bike’s motor and whether its primary use speeds up chain wear. If you have a mid-drive motor or use your e-bike for extreme riding, it is advised to use special chains.
Another thing that you might want to consider in choosing between a standard or eBike-specific chain is your budget and convenience. Special chains are more expensive than standard bicycle chains. If you don’t want to spend much on chains, then sticking with a traditional chain should be fine.
If you think a traditional chain will perform satisfactorily on your electric bike, you don’t have to switch to an eBike-specific chain. However, if you think installing a special, eBike-specific chain is more convenient, go for it.
If you are looking for an incredibly reliable eBike-specific chain, a Shimano or KMC would be your best bet.
You can buy the SHIMANO HG71 6/7/8-Speed E-Bike Rated Chain; and KMC EPT 116L 8S Ebike Chain on Amazon.
eBike Chain vs. Normal Chain
| Normal Chain | eBike Specific Chain |
| Durable enough to withstand normal riding conditions Generally made from less expensive and weaker materials Suitable for bikes and e-bikes with hub-drive motors | More durable than standard chain and can withstand extreme riding conditions Generally made from more expensive and stronger materials to increase durability More suitable for e-bikes with mid-drive motors |
Is an Ebike Chain Different from a Normal Chain?
As a whole, an eBike chain is different from a normal chain because it has a special coating to reduce wear. It may also have slight differences in chain design and material. Nevertheless, both standard and eBike chains function look quite similar, although the special coating may be colored.
To understand the similarities and differences between an eBike-specific chain and a standard chain, it will help if we revisit a bit of electric bike history.
Special chains for electric bicycles are a very recent option. At first, traditional bicycle chains and electric bicycle chains were the same.
eBikes has come a long way since the early days. Engineers and manufacturers have integrated the motor and battery into the eBike’s frame and wheels. Furthermore, some components, such as the frames and tires, have been redesigned and modified.
Chains, however, remained largely unchanged and continued to be used interchangeably between traditional pedal bikes and eBikes until fairly recently.
As electric bicycle designs were changed and modified, successfully producing greater power and speed, traditional bike chains began wearing out quickly. This particularly affected electric bikes with mid-drive motors.
In response to the premature wear that started to occur to traditional chains, chain manufacturers began hardening certain parts of the chain. In addition, they added coatings to reduce friction and increase durability. The coatings allowed the addition of color to chains as well.
Most recently, modifications to chains have begun to include chamfering of the links to help with smooth, efficient shifting, as well as hollowing out the pins to reduce weight while retaining strength.
Can You Use a Normal Chain on an eBike?
As a general rule, you can use a normal chain on any electric bike. Though using a standard chain is doable, it would be best to consider the location of your e-bike’s motor, the type of terrain, and your riding style.
The location of your motor is one of the critical factors to consider when buying a chain. If you have a mid-drive motor, it would be best to use an eBike-specific chain. This is because the mid-drive motor puts considerable stress on the chain and could wear out and snap the chain quickly. However, if your electric bike has a hub-drive motor, the standard chain will work just fine.
You should also consider the type of terrain you are riding and your riding style. For instance, if you are riding on rocky, muddy, or bumpy terrains and you’re into extreme riding, it is highly advisable to use special chains because they are more durable than traditional chains. In contrast, if you’re riding on smooth pavements most of the time, using a traditional chain will be more convenient.
“Life is like a 10-speed bicycle. Most of us have gears we never use.”
–Charles M. Schultz
Can You Use an eBike Chain on a Normal Bike?
As a general rule, you can use an e-bike chain on a normal bike. Standard and e-bike chains are similar in style but differ in durability. Ebike-specific chains are more durable and stronger than standard chains.
Using an eBike-specific chain on a regular bike is doable. However, you have to think about whether using an e-bike chain on your bike is necessary. For example, if you are riding on smooth roads most of the time, using an eBike-specific chain might be less necessary because they are more expensive than standard chains.
Why Does Chain Wear Matter on an eBike?
As a whole, chain wear matters on an e-bike because it creates expensive and potentially unsafe ripple effects. Worn chains can snap, potentially endangering the rider. Wear also alters the chain’s pitch and shape, creating misalignment with gear cogs which puts excess wear on them.
Chain wear is also referred to as “chain stretch” because, as the chain wears, the chain’s pitch is stretched, increasing its length and causing the chain to snap and break. When the chain is worn out, it decreases its efficiency and performance.
A properly maintained chain allows smoother transition of gears, so when your chain wears, the transitioning of gears will not be significantly affected.
Furthermore, worn chains can damage more expensive electric bike components and increase the likelihood of breaking during use. This adds cost and potential safety issues to the electric bike’s use. It is always best to replace your e-bike chain as soon as you find out that it’s worn out to avoid unfortunate things from happening.
How Can Motor Position Wear an eBike’s Chain?
As a general rule, the motor’s position creates extra wear if the motor’s power gets fed directly to the chain, creating stress. A mid-drive motor adds chain stress, while a hub-drive motor does not. Its power is fed to the wheel, so no additional stress is placed on the chain.
An eBike motor is generally positioned in one of two locations:
- In one of the eBike’s wheel hubs (“hub driven”); or
- At the center of the bike, between the rider’s legs or feet (“mid-drive motor”).
A hub-driven electric bike motor works separately from the chain. Since the motor is located in the hub of one of the wheels, it feeds its power to that wheel. A motor mounted inside the rear wheel’s hub essentially creates a bicycle version of automotive rear-wheel drive. In contrast, a motor in the front hub creates front-wheel drive.
Because of the location, electric bikes with hub-drive motors do not require an eBike-specific chain. They do not put extra stress on the chains, so using a standard chain would be fine. If you want to know which of the two (front or rear wheels) is the best place for a hub-drive motor, you can check out our article Front Wheel Vs. Rear Wheel (Best Place for eBike Hub Motor).
A mid-drive motor feeds its power directly to the chain. Therefore, any power that a mid-drive motor creates that is greater than the power a human can make when pedaling is applied directly to the chain. Typically, a human rider cannot pedal at a rate equivalent to 200W for long, if at all. In comparison, most eBike motors have a minimum power rating of 250W. Power ratings of 500W and 750W are common, so a motor definitely creates more power than a human does.
A mid-drive motor sends all that extra power directly to the chain. Additional stress is applied to the chain, which traditional bike chains are not designed to withstand. Traditional chains, therefore, wear down very rapidly under these conditions.
When choosing between a standard and eBike-specific chain, always consider the location of your electric bike motor.
You can read our article “Hub Motor Vs. Mid-Drive Motor (The Real Difference)” to better compare hub-drive and mid-drive motors.
How Does an eBike’s Primary Use Affect Its Chain?
On average, an eBike’s primary use affects its chain by determining the chain’s dirt load and stress. For example, the chain of an eBike used on level city pavement for commuting is not subjected to much stress or dirt. Trail riding, in contrast, exposes the chain to dirt, grit, and high stress.
Electric mountain bikes are often ridden in muddy conditions, with steep inclines, sharp turns, and sudden direction changes. This puts stress on electric bikes and their components, including the chain. Jumps, in particular, stress a chain.
For each jump, the chain goes through a sequence of “growth” (slack) in the air and then snaps back fully taut when the electric bike hits the ground (“bottoming out”). That sequence of events puts significant stress on the chain. When that much stress is repeatedly applied to the chain, it leads to premature wear and shortens the chain’s life span.
Any electric bike whose primary use includes frequent jumps would largely benefit from the most durable chains available. Given what is available in the current market, that would almost certainly mean choosing eBike-specific chains.
However, if you use your electric bike primarily on smooth roads, then a standard chain will meet your needs. You just have to maintain it properly to experience its peak performance and efficiency.
Do Electric Mountain Bikes Need Special Chains?
As a general rule, electric mountain bikes need special chains. Even when e-mountain bikes have hub motors that do not add stress to the chains, the terrain and the way e-mountain bikes are ridden make special chains necessary. Without them, performance and safety tend to suffer.
Since mountain e-Bikes have a primary use that routinely involves jumps, gritty or muddy conditions, steep inclines, and the like, their chains are exposed to high stress on a regular basis.
You might argue that a non-electric mountain bike is ridden under the same conditions, therefore the same chain stress, and they are operated with traditional chains. Good point. However, the stress is much greater on an electric mountain bike compared to a traditional mountain bike, even if they are both ridden on similar routes and engaged in similar maneuvers. There are several reasons why:
- An electric mountain bike motor helps the rider attain and maintain the speed that a traditional mountain bike does not generally achieve.
- Riding an electric mountain bike is less exhausting to the rider than riding a traditional mountain bike.
- The motor of an electric mountain bike has greater torque than a human pedaling.
Combining those factors means that an electric mountain bike typically can be ridden through maneuvers at greater speeds, more frequently, and for more extended periods than the traditional mountain bike is likely to be.
Electric mountain biking usually takes place on muddy, rough, and steep terrains. Even with a hub-drive motor, an e-mountain bike’s chain will likely become dirty and be exposed to high stress. That could be a primary recipe for rapid chain wear. Therefore, making use of strengthened eBike-specific chains is highly advisable.
Electric mountain bikes with hub motors whose riders stay mainly on paved and gentle inclines may be an exception because regular chains are strong enough under those conditions.
This is an example of an electric bike’s primary use being a more significant factor in choosing a chain than the electric bike’s type. Furthermore, how much wear your chain can possibly experience depends on other factors, such as proper usage and maintenance. An electric bike or not, it is always best to properly maintain it.
Are eBike Specific Chains Worth It?
As a whole, eBike-specific chains are worth it. An eBike-specific chain may not be necessary for all electric bikes, but buying it is worth the investment, especially if you have a mid-drive motor or your riding style puts lots of stress on your chain.
eBike-specific chains are more costly than standard chains because they are made of incredibly reliable materials. In addition, manufacturers make eBike-specific chains stronger than traditional bicycle chains, so you don’t have to worry about snapping them quickly.
It’s no doubt that your drivetrain is one of the electric bike parts that gets dirtiest when riding. The dirt from your surroundings is one of the primary causes of chain wear. This is why manufacturers put special wear-reducing coatings on eBike-specific chains. Though they are pricey, you’ll probably appreciate eBike-specific chains more if you’re into extreme riding.
If you are looking for an eBike-specific chain that is worth buying, consider the SHIMANO HG71 6/7/8-Speed E-Bike Rated Chain or KMC EPT 116L 8S Ebike Chain from Amazon.
Shimano eBike Chain vs. Normal Chain
As a general rule, the Shimano e-bike chains are more durable than normal chains. Most Shimano electric bike chains are treated with SIL-TEC on their pins and plates, which increases their durability.
Shimano e-bike chains and traditional chains can be used in both bikes and electric bikes. However, Shimano e-bike chains are best used in specific Shimano electric bike series.
If you are interested in buying a Shimano e-bike chain, check out this Shimano e-bike chain sold on Amazon.
If you are looking for an excellent but affordable standard chain, check out this Zonkie speed bike chain, also on Amazon.
How Long Does an eBike Chain Last?
As a whole, an electric bike chain lasts approximately 2,000-3,000 miles of riding or three to four years. The duration of the life of an E-bike chain may be shorter or longer than expected depending on factors such as riding style, riding conditions, usage, and maintenance.
A chain is one of the electric bike components that wears and tears naturally. Regardless of use or how well you take care of it, your chain will snap and break at some point. However, you can lengthen its life span, saving you some cash and the hassle of changing it too frequently.
Any electric bike chain will last longer than expected if properly used and maintained. The e-bike chain must be cleaned and maintained using suitable cleaning products and the right lube. We highly recommend not using products that could possibly shorten the chain’s longevity.
How Long Does an eMountain Bike Chain Last?
As a whole, electric mountain bike chains last about 500-1,500 miles, or up to 3 years. Mountain biking usually involves jumps, gritty and muddy conditions, and steep inclines, so chains are exposed to an increased amount of stress.
We usually use electric mountain bikes on rough, muddy, or rocky pavements. These conditions cause e-mountain bike chains to wear more quickly than the chains of regular electric bikes, which are used primarily for commuting on smooth roads. The longevity of the e-mountain bike chain depends on its usage and maintenance. It is advisable to clean and lube your chain frequently to optimize use.
When Should I Change My E-bike Chain?
As a general rule, you should change your e-bike chain when:
- You have covered a distance of 2,000-3,000 miles,
- You spot any deformations or cracks in your chain, or
- Your chain has reached 0.5% or 0.75% wear.
It is crucial to know when to change your e-bike chain to avoid being at risk later on. Electric bike chains generally need to be replaced when you have covered 2,000-3,000 miles. However, this could vary due to multiple factors affecting chain wear, such as maintenance, type of terrain, and weather conditions. Even so, most riders follow the estimated 2,000-3,000 miles.
In addition, electric bike chains must be changed when you notice any deformation, crack, or severe wear on the chain. Check your chain regularly for signs of these conditions. If not changed, the chain could snap and break while riding, which could put your life in danger.
There is a tool called “chain checker” that is designed to indicate chain wear. Most manufacturers suggest replacing an electric bike chain when the chain wear reaches 0.5-0.75%. If you would like to know how chain checker is used, check out this blog post on Park Tool. If interested, you can purchase this Park Tool chain wear indicator on Amazon.
Another way of measuring chain stretch is by using a ruler. Note that the measurement of one complete chain link of a standard chain is one inch. To determine if your chain has been worn out, you have to measure twelve complete chain links. Since one complete chain link measures one inch, the twelve complete chain links must be twelve inches. If the distance from the 12-inch mark to the center of the link pin is more than 1/16″, your chain is stretched to the point where it needs to be replaced. If that’s the case, we suggest changing your chain as soon as possible.
How Do You Install an eBike Chain?
- Prepare the chain, drive link pin, and a chain tool.
- Install the chain into the cassette and chain ring and thread it through the rear derailleur.
- Cut the chain to the right length.
- Join the chain ends and reattach them using the drive link pin and a chain tool.
- Snap the drive link into a locked position.
- Lube the chain.
- Wipe the excess lube.
When installing an e-bike chain, always ensure that your electric bike, or at least the parts near the chain, such as chainrings, cassettes, cranks, and pedals, are clean. Of course, you must clean your hands, too, but it would be even better to wear clean gloves. This is to prevent the new chain from getting dirty.
It is also advisable to lube your chain after installing it. First, make sure that each chain link is coated with lube. Then, rotate the pedals so that the lube is distributed throughout the length of the chain. Finally, do not forget to clean the excess lube.
You can watch the video for the step-by-step procedure.
How Do You Change an eBike Chain?
- Prepare the chain, drive link pin, and a chain tool.
- Uninstall the old e-bike chain.
- Clean your e-bike, especially the parts that are near the chain.
- Install the chain into the cassette and chain ring and thread it through the rear derailleur.
- Cut the chain to the right length.
- Join the chain ends and reattach them using the drive link pin and a chain tool.
- Snap the drive link into a locked position.
- Lube the chain.
- Wipe the excess lube.
Before changing the chain of your electric bike, make sure that your hands and electric bike are clean. Any dirt from your hands or electric bike can contaminate your new chain, which you don’t want to happen.
Follow the steps and make sure to wipe the excess lube using a clean cloth after lubricating your chain.
How Do You Maintain an eBike chain?
As a general rule, you can maintain your e-bike chain by checking and cleaning it regularly. First, make sure that your e-bike chain is clean and free from rust or contaminants. Then, apply a clean and suitable lubricant.
Proper maintenance is essential for your chain to function at its peak. An electric bike chain with adequate and appropriate care will last longer than expected. Proper electric bike chain maintenance is one of the critical factors in ensuring a smooth and safe ride. It improves efficiency, enhances durability, and allows smoother and quieter gear transitions. If you are interested to learn more about gears, read our article Electric Bike Gears (Do You Need, How Many, How It Works).
Maintaining an electric bike chain is easy, so you can do it yourself. You just need to have the right cleaning materials.
Here are some cleaning tools you might want to have to maintain your electric bike chain:
- Degreaser
- Designated chain cleaner tool
- Lubricant (Wet and Dry Lube)
- Bike-repair stand
- Gloves
- Clean rags
Steps in Cleaning an eBike Chain
Before starting, it is advisable to clean your hands and use gloves. Put your electric bike on a bike stand to lift it and keep it steady while doing the job. You wouldn’t want your electric bike to be swinging as you clean the chain.
In cleaning your e-bike chain, you may use the special chain cleaner tool for an easier cleaning process. However, you may opt to use a brush or even a used toothbrush. Simply put the degreaser onto the chain cleaner tool or brush and back-pedal your chain.
After applying the degreaser, rinse it off your chain with clean water. You may use a hose or a sponge. Then, wipe the water off with a clean, dry rag.
Next, apply the suitable lubricant. Always use the lube that matches your riding conditions. For instance, you may want to use a wet lube if there is frequent rain. Otherwise, use a dry lube. You can also use a lube that is for all weather conditions.
When applying lube, you should allow one drop of lube for each chain link. Spin your pedal backward to apply the lube to all parts of the chain. Do not forget to clean the excess lube with a clean, dry cloth or rag.
Check out the video below on how to clean and lube your chain.
How Do You Clean an eBike Chain Without a Stand?
If your eBike doesn’t have a stand, you can use or do any of the following to lift your electric bike when cleaning your chain.
- Use a kickstand.
- Use a ceiling pulley.
- Stand your e-bike upside down.
- Build a DIY e-bike stand.
Using Kickstand Instead of eBike Stand
A kickstand can serve as a mini stand. The kickstand must be long enough to lift the rear wheel. That way, you’ll be able to spin the rear wheel freely while cleaning your chain. If your electric bike already has a kickstand that could lift the rear wheel, this would be a great option. You can also buy this traditional kickstand on Amazon.
Using a Ceiling Pulley Instead of an eBike Stand
A ceiling pulley would also be an excellent option to lift your electric bike. However, you have to be mindful of the strap length. The straps must be long enough to adjust and level your e-bike in a position where you can comfortably work. You can also opt to buy large hooks and straps to modify the pulley.
If you are considering this method, keep in mind that since the electric bike is being hung, it is likely to swing as you clean your chain. You can buy this ceiling pulley on Amazon or make a DIY ceiling pulley using two large hooks and straps.
Stand Your eBike Upside Down to Clean Your Chain
This is often one of the most accessible solutions to clean your chain without a stand. Though this is doable, you run the risk of harming delicate e-bike components such as the handlebar, e-bike seat, LCD, and brake lever.
Build Your DIY eBike Stand
This solution takes a time investment, and you may have to buy the tools and materials to make one. Watch this video on how to build your DIY electric bike stand.
Should I Lube My eBike Chain?
As a whole, you should lube your electric bike chain. The electric bike chain is one of the dirtiest parts of an electric bike. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain optimal efficiency and performance.
Putting lube on an electric bike chain is part of regular maintenance. Maintaining your e-bike chain allows a smoother transition of gears, enhances efficiency, and a longer life span. Always make sure to use a lubricant that is suitable for your specific e-bike chain.
What Can I Use to Lubricate My Bike Chain?
As a general rule, you can use a bike chain lube to lubricate your bike chain. You can also use grease and bike oil as alternatives. However, their performances are different from the performance of the suitable bike chain lube.
These alternatives may not be as great as the right bike chain lube, but they can still work well and offer chain protection even in just a short period.
There are several factors to consider when choosing a bike chain lubricant. If you are a mountain biker who rides on wet, muddy, or rough terrains, it would be better to use wet chain lube. In contrast, if you’re a road commuter who usually rides on smooth and dry terrain, using a dry chain lube would be more suitable.
Proper bike chain lubricants are not expensive, so they won’t break the bank. The following list contains bike chain lubricants that are of excellent quality and also affordable.
How Often Should I Oil My e-Bike Chain?
As a general rule, an electric bike chain needs to be lubricated at least once a month or every 150-200 miles of riding, if riding in normal conditions. If you are a frequent rider, it would be advisable to lubricate your e-bike chain at least once a week.
E-bike chains are prone to breaking when not properly maintained. Lubricate your e-bike chain as often as possible to prevent it from rusting and eliminate friction and corrosion. Doing so will provide optimal performance and protection.
If you are not using your electric bike, store it properly. To gain ideas for storing your electric bike, read our article 17 Electric Bike Storage Ideas You Can Actually Use (Home, Garage, Outside).
