1. What is Sheldon Brown's Chain Length Formula?

Sheldon Brown's chain length formula is a widely used method to determine the proper chain length for a bicycle. It accounts for the chainstay length and the sizes of the front and rear sprockets to calculate the optimal chain length.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Sheldon Brown's formula:

Where:

• \( Chainstay \) — Distance from center of bottom bracket to rear axle (inches)
• \( Front \) — Number of teeth on largest front chainring
• \( Rear \) — Number of teeth on largest rear cog

Explanation: The formula accounts for the chain's path around the largest sprockets and adds one inch for proper derailleur tension.

3. Importance of Correct Chain Length

Details: Proper chain length ensures smooth shifting, prevents excessive wear on drivetrain components, and maintains optimal chain tension.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure chainstay length accurately in inches, count teeth on largest front chainring and largest rear cog. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why add 1 inch to the calculation?
A: The extra inch accounts for the derailleur's need to maintain proper chain tension across all gear combinations.

Q2: What if my bike has a single speed?
A: For single speeds, you can use the same formula but may need slightly less chain length since there's no derailleur.

Q3: How do I measure chainstay length?
A: Measure from the center of the bottom bracket to the center of the rear axle, in inches.

Q4: Should I round the result to whole links?
A: Yes, chains can only be lengthened or shortened by whole links (1 inch per link). Round to nearest whole number.

Q5: Does this work for all derailleur systems?
A: It works well for most modern derailleur systems, but some extreme gear ranges may require adjustments.