How to Put a Bike Chain Back On, E-Bike and Regular Bike Guide

A bike chain coming off is one of the most common issues riders face. The good news is that putting a bike chain back on is usually simple and only takes a minute or two.

If you are riding an electric bike, there is one extra safety step first: turn the battery off before touching the drivetrain.

For a quick visual example, watch this short video here: How to put the chain back on

And no, you do not have to do it with bare feet.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/I31oxMnLKD0

How to put a bike chain back on

If your bike chain came off, follow these steps:

1. Turn the battery off if it is an e-bike

If you have an electric bicycle, switch the battery system off before doing anything else.

This is the safest way to start when working near the chain, derailleur, and pedals.

2. Relax the derailleur

Use your hand to relax the derailleur and create slack in the chain.

This reduces tension and makes it much easier to guide the chain back onto the gear or chainring.

3. Put the chain back on

Carefully place the chain back where it belongs.

In most cases, you will guide it back onto the rear cog or the front chainring, depending on where it slipped off.

4. Lift the back wheel

Once the chain is sitting in place, lift the rear wheel slightly off the ground.

This helps the drivetrain move freely while you check that the chain is aligned correctly.

5. Move the pedal forward

Now slowly turn the pedal forward.

This allows the chain to settle back into place and helps you confirm that everything is running smoothly again.

What to do if your bike chain keeps falling off

If your bike chain keeps coming off, the issue may not be the chain itself. Common causes include:

•  a poorly adjusted derailleur 
•  a worn chain 
•  a bent derailleur hanger 
•  drivetrain components that need servicing 

If it happens often, it is worth getting the bike checked.

Quick answer

If you are wondering how to fix a bike chain that came off, the short answer is:

Turn the battery off if it is an e-bike, relax the derailleur, put the chain back on, lift the rear wheel, and move the pedal forward.

Simple, fast, and no barefoot mechanics required.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/I31oxMnLKD0