The 24 best chain guide brands
MRP, E*thirteen and Shimano lead our ranking of 24 chain guide brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Chain Guide brands, ranked
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1
MRP
MRP is a Colorado-based brand that has been making bike parts. It has been a part of the biking industry for the last 15 to 20 years, making an impact on the market. It works effectively in the manufacturing unit by testing every item they produce before sending it forward in the process. All the products are tested by the riders of trust. It believes in quality over quantity and makes customized parts as well.
Website: mrpbike.com |Brands like MRP
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
E*thirteen
E*thirteen products are intended to give budget-conscious riders the most remarkable quality performance and dependability. They concentrate on designing components that perform well on every adventure, from XC trail rides to full-on enduro races. They recognize that maintaining great products and service is critical to your success. Its goal is to provide more robust, lighter, and extended components than any other brand. Regardless of the cost, their worldwide team of committed engineers works diligently to deliver rider solutions that surpass expectations.
Website: ethirteen.com |Brands like E*thirteen
Popularity 8.5/10
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3
Shimano
Cycles are fun to ride and also good for health. But not every cycle feels good while riding and often has complaints. Shimano Steps presents you with a series of e-bikes that can accommodate any terrain, whether city or hill. They are equipped with a powerful motor and designed in a way that suits your needs and requirements. Shimano e-bikes are capable of withstanding tough conditions and are durable to all wear and tear.
Website: shimano-steps.com |Brands like Shimano
Popularity 4.4/10
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4
absoluteBlack
Cycling is considered the best recreational activity. But sports enthusiasts took it to the next level, and so did the developments in the field. absoluteBlack bought one of the revolutionary changes with them. They introduced oval chainrings that increase the efficiency when you paddle. The best quality aluminum alloys are selected to make the chainrings which also explains their strength. absoluteBlack has been doing continuous research and has become the largest manufacturer of chainrings.
Website: absoluteblack.cc |Brands like absoluteBlack
Popularity 3.6/10
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5
XLC
XLC believes that biking cannot be described as a sport; it is a lifestyle. The brand offers everything you require in every area of biking. It ensures that you are uninhibited on your bike and can be as carefree, safe, and sporty as possible. Its dedication to designing premium-quality items is unmatched and ensures you do not create a hole in your wallet by offering its products at affordable prices.
Website: xlc-parts.com |Brands like XLC
Popularity 3.2/10
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6
Blackspire
Blackspire is a hardware manufacturer for autos and everyday use. This product is a market leader in the tech equipment industry. E-bike chainrings, both narrow and wide, combine this chainring with any stylish clutch derailleur, and through this, one can never drop a chain again. They have tubeless-ready rims with Shimano freehub bodies, making it a popular tool. All items are technically and quality evaluated before being offered wholesale.
Website: blackspire.com |Brands like Blackspire
Popularity 3.2/10
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7
FUNN
Funn is an exclusive brand manufacturing bike components to provide you with the best biking experience. Funn produces the components world-class quality components for racers, bikers, or simply weekend cycling lovers. We aim to provide the best always. The Funn has a whole set of tools, equipment, and components for an exhilarating swift ride for the bikers. It includes pedals, handlebars, stems, saddles, headsets, cranks, etc.
Website: funnmtb.com |Brands like FUNN
Popularity 3.2/10
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8
Omni
Omni Gear is more than just a maker of gearboxes. They provide complete powertrain solutions that combine rugged, dependable, and cost-effective gearboxes with drive systems, modules, and electric motors to produce powerful, intelligent, and efficient cars. Since 2004, they have established themselves as one of the top companies in the commercial vehicle aftermarket, with their product consistently evolving to suit the rising demands of their loyal clients. Transmissions, axle assemblies, and transfer cases are all applications for these items in the commercial vehicle sector.
Website: omnipowertrain.com |Brands like Omni
Popularity 2.8/10
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9
Wolf Tooth Components
Wolf Tooth Components are found by cycling enthusiasts for their fellow racers and riders. It designs and manufactures cycling products that improve functionality and performance and are reliable at the same time. Wolf Tooth Components is always on a mission...
Website: wolftoothcomponents.com |Brands like Wolf Tooth Components
Popularity 2.4/10
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10
FSA
The FSA brand has been associated with pioneer bike components for more than 60 years. Chainsets, cranksets, brakes, headsets, bottom brackets, and other bicycle parts are produced and designed by FSA. These are sold by a vast network of accredited...
Website: fsaproshop.com |Brands like FSA
Popularity 2.0/10
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11
Brompton
Brompton is a UK-based company that manufactures innovative folding bikes. The engineers here create unique and effective cycles with a contemporary touch. The company developed its first three-part folded bike in 1975. More, they believe in sustainable and accountable production....
Website: us.brompton.com |Brands like Brompton
Popularity 1.8/10
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12
Wolf Tooth
Wolf Tooth was established to create cycling products that focus on reliability, performance, and function. They cater to the needs of racers and riders and provide bike components that would suit their liking. They are constantly innovating to make bikes...
Website: wolftoothcomponents.com |Brands like Wolf Tooth
Popularity 1.8/10
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13
Exustar
Exustar has been in the industry for 25 years. They have focused on being the leading supplier of bicycle pedals, shoes, and other accessories that riders need. Exustar has been dedicated to researching and developing new riding technology since 2002....
Website: exustar.com |Brands like Exustar
Popularity 1.8/10
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14
Cannondale
Cannondale began its story in 1971. This was when the world was interested in rapidly changing with innovations and a spirit of creativity. Cycling did not have much advancement, so they changed the way you look at cycling now. Cannondale...
Website: cannondale.com |Brands like Cannondale
Popularity 1.6/10
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15
Origin8
ORIGIN 8 is a manufacturer of the best quality, low-cost cycling components. They continue to create parts for the main groups of road, mountain, and gravel bikes and accessories that enhance the usefulness of your bike, whether you're riding one...
Website: origin8.bike |Brands like Origin8
Popularity 1.6/10
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16
Kinesis
A substantial vehicle should be your partner while exploring the roughest path. Kinesis provides buyers with exclusive model varieties for road and adventure. Electric bikes by Sector are lightweight, feature removable batteries and motor systems, and are for the mountains....
Website: kinesisbikes.co.uk |Brands like Kinesis
Popularity 1.3/10
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17
Deda Elementi
Deda Elementi is the largest manufacturer of motorcycle wheelsets and components globally. Deda Elementi specializes in producing items using cutting-edge technologies and industrial equipment. Bicycle tires, cockpits, handlebars, tapes, and seat posts are all available. Deda Elementi distinguishes itself via...
Website: dedaelementi.com |Brands like Deda Elementi
Popularity 1.3/10
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18
DMR
DMR set up its base on British soil a long time ago. They have been designing and manufacturing Mountain bikes and Dirt jump bikes for some time now. DMR understands the call of the ride and the pure bliss of...
Website: dmrbikes.com |Brands like DMR
Popularity 1.3/10
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19
Gusset
The Gusset is a rider's brand. The company manufactures all sorts of bicycle parts. The products range from chains, saddles, breaks, forks, handles, wheels, paddles, and whatnot. Their collection also includes comfortable outfits for the bikers. With the Gusset's firm...
Website: gussetcomponents.com |Brands like Gusset
Popularity 1.3/10
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20
Wilier
Wilier is your brand if you are looking for bicycles. Wilier doesn’t build bikes but creates them. It believes the brand stands for safety and reliability regarding high-level performance. Its ranges are divided into racing, endurance, and leisure. Apart from...
Website: wilier.com |Brands like Wilier
Popularity 0.9/10
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21
M-Wave
M-wave, Australia's top online retailer for computers and accessories, provides a wide selection of goods at exceptional prices. They have everything you need to stay up with the quick-paced digital world, including PCs, laptops, mobile phones, and TVs. Online shopping...
Website: mwave.me |Brands like M-Wave
Popularity 0.9/10
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22
Ibis
Ibis is a well-known developer and manufacturer of carbon-fiber bicycles and related accessories based in Santa Cruz, California. The company is highly known for producing bicycles that can offer optimum performance while cycling on any terrain. The most popular bike...
Website: ibiscycles.com |Brands like Ibis
Popularity 0.9/10
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23
Rotor
Rotor America is a Spanish brand that manufactures bike components. They produce one of the best bike components globally and have established a value in delivering fine quality parts. They aim to create an Asian counterpart in selling cheaper and...
Website: rotoramerica.com |Brands like Rotor
Popularity 0.9/10
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24
Hebie
Hebie is a bike part manufacturing company that has been a leader in making bike parts for over a century and has since gained popularity for building bikes with clip-on mudguards. Their product line includes mudguards, luggage racks, bicycle racks,...
Website: hebie.de |Brands like Hebie
Popularity 0.9/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MRP | mrpbike.com | /mrpbike | mrpbike | – | MRP Bike |
| E*thirteen | ethirteen.com | /ethirteenbythehive | ethirteencomponents | – | – |
| Shimano | shimano-steps.com | /ShimanoEbike | shimanoebike | – | – |
| absoluteBlack | absoluteblack.cc | /absoluteblack.cc | absoluteblack.cc | – | absoluteBLACKrotors |
| XLC | xlc-parts.com | /xlcparts | xlc_official | – | – |
| Blackspire | blackspire.com | /blackspirecomponents | blackspire_components | – | – |
| FUNN | funnmtb.com | /funnmtb | funnmtb | – | – |
| Omni | omnipowertrain.com | – | – | – | – |
| Wolf Tooth Components | wolftoothcomponents.com | /Wolf-Tooth-Components-LLC-155112457987558 | wolf_tooth_comp | @Wolf_Tooth_Comp | Wolf Tooth |
| FSA | fsaproshop.com | /Fullspeedahead | fsa_mtb | @visionmy | FullSpeedAheadTV |
Chain Guides Buying Guide
Riding off-road can be a lot of fun, but it also puts a lot of stress on your bike components, especially the chain. The chain is one of the most important parts of a mountain bike, and it is critical to prevent it from hitting rocks and bouncing off the chainring or falling off the bike. A chain guide is a device that is designed to keep the chain on the chainring and prevent it from falling off the bike. If you are looking to purchase a chain guide for your mountain bike, this guide is for you.
Types of Chain Guides
There are two main types of chain guides: upper chain guides and lower chain guides. Upper chain guides mount on the front derailleur, while lower chain guides mount on the rear derailleur. Both types of chain guides are designed to keep the chain in place and prevent it from falling off the bike, but they differ in their design and performance.
Upper Chain Guides
Upper chain guides are mounted on the front derailleur of the bike and are designed to prevent the chain from bouncing off the chainring. They are typically made from plastic or aluminum and have a small pulley that guides the chain up and over the chainring. Some upper chain guides are designed to work with single or double chainrings, while others are designed to work with triple chainrings. Upper chain guides are ideal for most trail riding and cross-country racing.
Lower Chain Guides
Lower chain guides are mounted on the rear derailleur of the bike and are designed to prevent the chain from bouncing off the jockey wheel. They are typically made from plastic or aluminum and have a small pulley that guides the chain over the jockey wheel. Lower chain guides are most commonly used in downhill and freeriding, where the chain is exposed to more impacts and is more likely to fall off. They are designed to work with single or double chainrings.
Chainring Compatibility
Before purchasing a chain guide, it is important to consider the compatibility with your chainring. Chain guides are designed to work with specific chainring sizes, and using the wrong size can result in the chain falling off the bike. Most chain guides are designed to work with a specific range of chainring sizes, and some are adjustable to fit a wider range of sizes.
Number of Chainrings
The number of chainrings on your bike will also affect the type of chain guide you need. If you have a single or double chainring setup, you can use either an upper or lower chain guide, depending on your riding style. If you have a triple chainring setup, you will need an upper chain guide to prevent the chain from bouncing off the chainring when switching gears.
Mounting Style
Chain guides are typically mounted using a variety of methods, including direct mount, ISCG, and BB mount. Direct mount chain guides attach directly to the frame or the chainring, while ISCG chain guides mount onto the frame using an ISCG mount. BB mount chain guides attach to the bottom bracket of the bike. When choosing a chain guide, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with your bike's mounting style.
Material and Durability
The material of the chain guide is another important factor to consider. Chain guides are typically made from plastic, aluminum, or a combination of both. Plastic chain guides are lightweight and inexpensive but can break easily if subjected to too much stress. Aluminum chain guides are more durable and can withstand more impact than plastic guides, but they are also heavier and more expensive. A combination of plastic and aluminum chain guides offers a balance between weight and durability.
Tension Adjustment
Some chain guides come with a tension adjustment mechanism that allows you to adjust the amount of tension on the chain. This is useful for riders who want to fine-tune their chain retention and prevent any chain drops. Chain guides with tension adjustment are more expensive than those without, but they offer a more customizable riding experience.
Conclusion
Chain guides are an essential component for any off-road rider who wants to keep their chain in place and prevent it from falling off the bike. When purchasing a chain guide, it is important to consider the type of chain guide, chainring compatibility, number of chainrings, mounting style, material and durability, and tension adjustment. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you choose the right chain guide for your riding style and bike setup.
Chain Guide Brands
When it comes to purchasing a chain guide, there are a variety of brands to choose from. Some of the more popular chain guide brands include OneUp Components, MRP, and e*thirteen.
OneUp Components
OneUp Components is a Canadian company that specializes in making high-quality bike components. Their chain guides are known for their durability and performance, and they offer a variety of chain guides for different bike setups. OneUp Components also offers a guide called the Bash Guide, which combines a chain guide with a bash guard to protect the chainring from impacts.
MRP
MRP (Mountain Racing Products) is a company that has been making chain guides for over 25 years. They are known for their high-quality chain guides, which are designed to withstand the rigors of downhill and freeriding. MRP offers a variety of chain guides that are compatible with different chainring sizes and bike setups.
e*thirteen
e*thirteen is a company that specializes in making chain guides and other bike components. Their chain guides are known for their lightweight and durable design, and they offer a variety of guides that are compatible with different bike setups. e*thirteen offers a guide called the TRS+ Guide, which features a modular design that allows you to add or remove a bash guard or an extension to fit different chainring sizes.
Installation of a Chain Guide
Installing a chain guide can be a straightforward process, but it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. The following steps provide a general guide to installing a chain guide:
- Remove the front or rear derailleur from the bike, depending on the type of chain guide you are installing.
- Position the chain guide on the frame or the chainring, depending on the mounting style.
- Attach the chain guide using the appropriate bolts, nuts, or screws.
- Adjust the height and angle of the chain guide to ensure that it lines up with the chainring and the chain.
- Adjust the tension on the chain guide if it has a tension adjustment mechanism.
- Test the chain guide by shifting through the gears and checking that the chain stays in place.
- Go for a test ride to ensure that the chain guide is working properly.
Maintenance of a Chain Guide
Like any bike component, chain guides require regular maintenance to ensure that they continue to function properly. The following tips provide a general guide to maintaining a chain guide:
- Clean the chain guide regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or grime that can buildup.
- Inspect the chain guide for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, bent metal, or loose fasteners.
- Replace any worn or damaged parts immediately to prevent any chain drops.
- Check the tension on the chain guide periodically and adjust it if necessary.
- Check the alignment of the chain guide and the chainring to ensure that it is following the chain properly.
- Lubricate the chain guide periodically to ensure that it moves smoothly and quietly.
Final Thoughts
Chain guides are an essential component for any off-road rider who wants to prevent chain drops and protect their bike components. When purchasing a chain guide, it is important to consider the type of chain guide, chainring compatibility, number of chainrings, mounting style, material and durability, and tension adjustment. By following these guidelines and maintaining your chain guide properly, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable ride every time.
