Ranking of the best bike chain squeezers for 2022

Cyclists often experience transmission failures. To replace an old torn chain or fit a new one, you can, of course, use improvised means in the old fashioned way. Or just buy a pomace. The compact and lightweight device will fit in your fanny pack and will help to eliminate breakage even in the field.

What is the squeeze for?

It will help to adjust the chain in length (add, remove links), replace if necessary. Facilitates the care of consumables - lubrication, cleaning. It will take just a few minutes to fix the breakdown.

Tip: You should also bring gloves with you. No one has yet managed to replace the chain and not get dirty.

How to use

There is nothing complicated. The first time, you may have to spend a little more time. The tool is not difficult to use, but requires some skill.

Breaking the chain

To disconnect the chain, you need to "squeeze out" one connecting rod. It is important not to touch the connecting pin (depending on the manufacturer). It differs in appearance from the rest, so it will not be difficult to figure it out. Then fix the link in the recess of the tool.

If there are two teeth (sockets), then the chain is located closer to the screw. After that, it remains to carefully tighten the screw, squeezing out the retainer. During operation, it is necessary to control the position of the chain (no distortions, pressure on the link, instead of the latch) should not be. Everything - the chain is removed.

Tip: do not overdo it, if the pin is “squeezed out” to the end, it will be very difficult to put it in place. The procedure will require a lot of time and spent nerves. So it pays to be careful.

How to connect

To begin with, it is worth choosing a chain that is appropriate in width for a particular brand of bicycle. Depends on the number of stars on the cassette, the more stars, the smaller the width. To adjust the length, you need to remove a few links (recommended dimensions are indicated by the manufacturer).

If you plan to install a lock, then one more link is removed as a plus. It is better to use a new pin (if not included, it is worth buying).

For proper installation, you need to turn the bike speed switches to the minimum value. After starting the chain through the switch frame. It is important to follow the correct location relative to the rollers. Top - right, bottom - left. After installing the link to be connected in the groove, fix it and, by turning the screw, press the new pin into place until it is aligned with the edges of the chain.

After that, it remains to check that the connected link is free to bend. If the move is tight, then again you can use the squeeze. Install the chain in the second notch on the tool (located farther from the screw) and push the pin back a little. Or just bend in different directions with your hands until fully straightened.

Will the lock help to avoid problems

It is believed that the installation of special locks makes it much easier to maintain a bicycle transmission. On the one hand, replacing or removing the chain with a lock is really much easier and faster. At the same time without the use of tools and a spare pin. Since many chain manufacturers indicate that a pressed pin cannot be reused. The fact is that gaps are possible at the junctions.

Another plus is ease of flushing (especially for those who use paraffin instead of bike chain lubricant)

Among the shortcomings - it will still not work to replace consumables on multi-speed bicycles without using improvised means. Another point - the lock connection is much inferior in strength to ordinary links, so the chain most often breaks at the lock. Another disadvantage is that buying a new lock in a regular store is quite problematic, and the cost of some locks is comparable to the price of a good squeeze.
In any case, regardless of the chain design, a compact and handy tool is worth buying.

How to choose

Here, as with any tool, you should pay attention to:

1. Purpose - the manufacturer usually indicates for which circuits the squeeze is intended. Pay attention to restrictions. Universal squeezers may not be suitable for chains with hollow retainers.
2. Metal - it is better if it is alloyed or hardened steel. It is stronger and therefore lasts longer. If the manufacturer saved and used silumin, then the pomace may break on the first use (as a rule, the teeth and the clamping pin suffer most often). So it’s not worth considering models cheaper than 200 rubles.
3. Design - inexpensive models are not equipped with an emphasis, so working with them is more difficult. It is worth paying attention to the presence of pads on the screw, which, when rotated, will prevent strong metal pressure on the hand. It's great if the tool is equipped with an additional hook holder that will fix the links.
4. The material of the striker or pin that presses on the pin when screwing in / out.
5. Price - if you rarely use a bicycle, then you should buy an inexpensive tool. Squeeze, even for a modest 150-300 rubles, will do its job perfectly. But if the bike is used intensively, including over long distances, then it is better to buy a more expensive model that will not let you down even in the field.
6. Customer reviews - they are best viewed on special forums.

Well, and, of course, the country of origin. By the way, Chinese pomace in the price segment (from 450 rubles) is not much inferior to branded counterparts.

Tip: ordering tools from a well-known Chinese trading platform makes sense if big discounts are offered. Prices online and offline for pomace are almost the same.

Below is a ranking of pomace in different price categories. From affordable - suitable for novice cyclists, to professional, which are used in specialized workshops.

Ranking of the best bike chain squeezers for 2022

BIKE HAND YC-327

BIKE HAND is a Taiwanese bicycle brand. The company has registered many patents for the production of reliable tools and consumables. Despite the democratic prices, there are no special complaints about the quality. Plus ergonomic design and quality materials. As for the BIKE HAND YC-327, it's just a good device without a stop. Simple, fully collapsible design. The length of the case is only 5.5 cm. A compact and reliable assistant for ridiculous money. Suitable if you need to squeeze out the chain links for subsequent separation.

Important: not compatible with wide BMX chains

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel;
Cost - from 160 rubles in the online store;
Customer rating - 4.0.

• price;
• hardened steel striker;
• reliability;
• manufacturer's warranty.

• the handle is turned;
• a small marriage is possible (sagging, chips on the thread).

STG YC-329

Another tool from BIKE HAND. The squeeze is equipped with an emphasis for convenient fixation. Suitable for chains of any manufacturer. The price is reasonable, but it can be difficult to use. Firstly, the presence of play at the release rod (distortions are possible when installing the pin). Secondly, the low quality of the metal.Many buyers expressed the opinion that the manufacturer used a cheaper alloy instead of hardened steel. In general, according to STG users, "YC-329" is a good tool for its price, therefore it is included in the review.

Brand country - Taiwan, manufacturer - China;
Material - steel is indicated on the package;
Price - from 400 rubles;
Customer rating (average on several resources) - 4.1.

• inexpensive, useful tool;
• convenient latch, the links do not need to be supported by hands;
• plastic limiters on the screw;
• compact size, light weight.

• requires careful handling due to the brittleness of the metal.

Gross

Equipped with an emphasis for fixing the links. Convenient and easy to operate. Suitable for replacing even a few links (for example, when shortening, replacing). A reliable rotary valve will allow you to squeeze out the mounting rod even in field conditions.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel, plastic;
Price - from 350 rubles (with a discount);
Customer rating - 3.9.

• price-quality ratio;
• reliability;
• good quality materials.

• no.

Nautilus II (BTL-05)

From the BBB brand. Positioned as a professional tool. Non-slip rubber handle, the ability to adjust the tool to the size of the link (including 11 speed). Compact size and easy to use. An indispensable tool for cyclists planning long trips. Spare pin included.

Brand country - Holland;
Material - steel, rubber;
Price - from 1000 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.1.

• convenient use;
• suitable for any chain thickness;
• non-slip handles;
• compact size.

• price.

VSI 38 Sport by Vinca

From a Russian brand that supplies consumables, tools and accessories for cycling. The company cooperates with manufacturers in China and Europe. The VSI 38 combines directly the squeeze and the key for the spokes marked 14/15G. Simple and reliable design, screw with plastic tips. The squeeze is made of steel, suitable for repairs, both at home and in the workshop.

Brand country - Russia, manufacturer - China;
Material - stainless steel, plastic;
Cost - 350 rubles;
Customer reviews - 3.9.

• price;
• simple design - nothing to break;
• can replace the key for spokes.

• there are no significant ones, but, like all pomace in this price category, it requires careful handling.

KL-9724BL

From the Chinese brand STG. Compact and handy with an ergonomic non-slip handle. Despite its small size, it does its job well. Reasonable price and good quality.

Country of brand and production - China;
Material - aluminum, steel, plastic;
Price - from 300 rubles;
Customer rating - 5.0.

• compactness;
• good quality;
• suitable for home repairs;
• great price.

• no.

MIGHTY

Made from alloy steel. Universal tool with an additional holder - useful for fixing open links. Thanks to the rubberized handle, it does not slip out of the hands, it is convenient to use. Suitable for any circuits (repair, adjustment, tuning). An extra pin is included.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel;
Price - from 800 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.3.

• universality;
• high-quality case material;
• convenience in operation.

• spare pin in the package may not be;
• according to buyers, the price is still too high, although many note that the tool does an excellent job.

TOPEAK

Universal squeeze. Suitable for servicing high-speed bikes (up to 12, Campagnolo - 11), including consumables with hollow pins. Hollow handle with hook holder unscrews for compact and easy storage. Equipped with an additional hole for breaking the closing pin. The construction is reliable and rigid.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel alloy with the addition of molybdenum and chromium;
Cost - from 700 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.9.

• rigid, reliable design;
• versatility, compatible, including with Shimano UG.

• no limiters;
• the screw is smooth - it can slip during operation.

Bike Hand YC-396

Professional, versatile tool. Ergonomic non-slip handles, customizable design. Also suitable for Shimano (11 speed). The set includes small pliers designed to separate the links. It will help out when replacing a worn transmission and when the chain breaks. YC-396 has earned good reviews, including from experts - the tool is used even in workshops.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel;
Price - from 1600;
Customer rating - 4.9.

• durable construction;
• quality steel;
• universality;
• suitable for professional use;
• pliers included.

• the only major downside is the price.

Birzman Damselfly Universal

A compact tool with an unusual design. Compatible with 5-12 speed bikes and 3/32, 1/8 inch single speed bikes. The patented Smart Cradle System allows the base plate to be adjusted to the width of the chain for a snug fit. The ergonomic handle allows you to open the links even with a little effort.

Country of origin - Germany;
Material - stainless steel;
Price - from 2200 rubles;
Customer rating - 5.0.

• reliability;
• compactness and unusual, functional design;
• great quality.

• no.

Topeak Ninja C

Unusual tool. The squeeze handles simultaneously act as steering plugs (suitable for a steering wheel with a minimum diameter of 16.5 mm, a maximum of 20 mm). Suitable for replacing and repairing consumables on high-speed bikes (Campagnolo - 11). Plus a compartment for pins, a hook and a 4 mm hex key.

Brand country - Taiwan;
Material - steel, plastic;
Price - from 2200 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.1.

• does not require storage space;
• convenient transportation;
• maximum equipment for a miniature device;
• reliability.

• price.

Super Chian Tool

From TOPEAK, combines: hexagon, squeeze and fixing hook. Suitable for most types of transmissions (up to 12 speeds, except Campagnolo 11 with hollow pins). Made from high quality hardened steel. The hexagon is attached to the base with a plastic holder.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - hardened steel, plastic;
Price - from 1200 rubles;
Customer rating - 4.3.

• ease of use;
• universality;
• quality materials.

• no.

Bike Hand YC-285

Folding model with hexagons included (size 4/5/6). Suitable for those who use the bike occasionally. Doesn't take up much space in your bag and fits easily into your jeans pocket.

Country of origin - Taiwan;
Material - steel, plastic;
Price - from 550 rubles.

• manufacturer's warranty;
• functionality;

• plastic case;
• miniature size - not very convenient to work with.

A bicycle chain squeezer is a really useful tool. At a relatively low cost, it can be great to facilitate bicycle repair even at home.