Quick tip: when replacing your chain your drivetrain on a 1x? drivetrain (singlespeed, 1×7, 1×8, 1×9, etc.) , try flipping your chainring around.

The chainring should wear primarily on the leading edge of the teeth and therefore the trailing edge should more or less be in prime condition. When you flip it, the trailing edge becomes the leading edge.

Things to look out for:

• Any burrs that have developed on the ring should be filed away. It is as easy as grabbing a file and working at it for a couple of minutes.
• Some chainrings have countersunk bolt holes. Flipping the ring in these cases will change your chainline slightly and your bolts may be too short.
• Not recommended for fixies. You do not want your chain slipping during ‘braking’.
• May not work with extremely worn rings.
• Watch out for ramps and pins. Though ramps and pins are not needed with a single chainring, you may have some if your set-up is a ‘conversion’. It is possible, though not likely, that the pins will interfere with the chain when it is flipped around.
• Make sure test for slippage in a safe area before heading out.

Tips for buying a new ring (when the time comes):

• Steel! Steel rings will last much longer than aluminum rings with a minimal cost penalty.
• Make sure you have the right bolt pattern and Bolt Circle Diameter (BCD).
• You don’t need ramps and pins, so don’t pay for them.
• One tooth bigger or smaller makes less of a difference on the front ring then on the rear cog. This is your chance to fine tune your gear ratio.