Even the most well tuned and perfectly aligned derailleurs can drop a chain every now and then. Rough roads, poor shifting technique and just freak occurrences can lead to chains dropping off the inside chainring. This circumstance is annoying in the least, delaying your ride and forcing you to mount the chain back on the drivetrain. At worst, the chain may damage the bottom bracket when it comes off, or become jammed into the drivetrain (ask Andy Schleck about jammed chain woes.) Preventing dropped chains is as simple as installing a chain catcher (sometimes called a chain watcher) on the front derailleur braze on clamp. This simple little part will help to prevent chain drops in even the nastiest road conditions; in fact, they are so effective that the vast majority of ProTeam racers use them in the spring classics. If it's good enough for the pro peloton, it's certainly good enough for me.
In the following video, I guide you through the basics of installing a K-Edge chain catcher. You'll need a set of allen wrenches/hex wrenches and about 20 or 25 minutes to install the part and tune up the front shifting.
Enjoy!
Comments? Questions? Post them to me in the comments section.
Thanks Rob. I hadn’t seen this particular chain catcher. I think I’ll grab one for my cross bike.
Cost was about $40 (give or take tax) from the LBS. I’ve seen them online for a few bucks cheaper.
I should also mention that they make a clamp on variety (which is really just the same product with a separate band clamp included) if you have a band style derailleur. For wonky shaped clamps, they make a “fit kit” or whatever they call it which contains a couple of spacers and extra washers. Really, it seems like spacers and washers can be bought at the local hardware store for a few dollars less.
And I’ve got to say, after just a ride on this one, I’ll DEFINITELY be picking up one for my cross bike.