It seems I now need pliers to connect my chain. I’ve got the pliers to disconnect. I saw a video online where a guy needle filed the tabs off the link plates and then you don’t need the pliers. Has anyone mtb done this successfully? Think he was a roadie, I’m concerned the tabs might be needed off road.

Anyone got any knowledge on this?

Ive also now read that 10 speed links work with 11 speed chains, they connect up with a tug rather than pliers. So thats also an option….

Those little tabs are a safety feature to help them not come apart. Dont even think about filing them down. 🙂

Line up the links. Put the chain on the big ring. Pull the front brake and hold. Then apply pressure to the pedals with your foot and it will lock in place.

Then buy these
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/bbb-open-link-closing-link-tool-btl77/rp-prod47439?gs=1&gclid=CJ2L4-CumsgCFYU_Gwodp8YK7Q&gclsrc=aw.ds

great advice right there! What took you so long?! Thanks 😀