Best
Best Extra-Long Bicycle Chains for Recumbent Trikes
A recumbent trike can swallow far more chain than an upright, so link count and speed rating decide what you buy.
Updated · 3 min read · 4 products evaluated
On a recumbent trike the chain runs from the crank at the front back to the rear, often through idlers. That path is much longer than on an upright bicycle, and a standard chain may fall short. Most riders join two chains with a master link to reach the right length.
Count how many links you need before buying, and match the chain to your cassette speed. For a more general chain buying guide, see /accessories/best-bicycle-chains-for-adult-tricycles/, and for lube see /accessories/best-dry-bicycle-chain-lubricants/.
Short answer
The XIAOTINGZI kit is the best overall because it ships a 126-link chain plus master links and a chain breaker, so you can join and cut to length. The KMC X8 is the quality pick for 8-speed drivetrains. The FGBNM 6/7/8 chain is the budget 116-link option and the Schwinn is for single-speed trikes.
Quick Picks
Our 4 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Best Overall
XIAOTINGZI 6/7/8 Speed Chain Kit
Recumbent owners who need to cut to length
Our Picks
Best Overall1 of 4
XIAOTINGZI 6/7/8 Speed Chain Kit
A 126-link chain with master links, a chain breaker and pliers.
Best for
Recumbent owners who need to cut to length
Why we like it
This kit contains one chain of 126 links for 6, 7 or 8-speed drivetrains, two pairs of quick-release master links, a chain breaker and installation pliers. The maker states a tensile strength of up to 2116 pounds.
It has more links than the 116-link chains here, which gives a head start on a long trike, and the tools mean you can finish the job. It still may not be long enough for a large recumbent, so measure first. Best for a first chain swap.
Key specs
| Features | 126 links, 6/7/8 speed, master links, chain breaker |
|---|
Specs can change between model years; confirm the exact version before buying.
Strengths
- 126 links
- Master links included
- Chain breaker included
- Fits 6, 7 and 8 speed
Limitations
- May still fall short on big trikes
- Unverified brand
Consider it if
- First-time chain swaps
- Joining chains
Skip it if
- 9 speed or higher
Best Quality2 of 4
KMC X8 8-Speed Chain
A 116-link 8-speed chain from a known maker with Double X Bridge construction.
Best for
8-speed trike drivetrains
Why we like it
The KMC X8 has Double X Bridge construction and chamfering for smooth shifting, high pin power riveting, and a nickel plate or EcoProteq coating. It has 116 links and weighs about 286 grams.
It is a more refined chain than the budget FGBNM, and its length is the same, so you will likely join two for a long trike. Best for riders who shift often; the caveat is that one chain alone may not reach.
Key specs
| Features | 116 links, 8-speed, Double X Bridge, nickel plate, 286 g |
|---|
Specs can change between model years; confirm the exact version before buying.
Strengths
- Smooth shift ramps
- High pin riveting
- Nickel plate coating
- Known maker
Limitations
- One chain may be too short
- No tools included
Consider it if
- 8-speed trikes
Skip it if
- Single-speed trikes
Best Budget3 of 4
FGBNM 6/7/8 Speed Bike Chain
A 116-link 6/7/8-speed chain with double X bridge design.
Best for
Budget swaps on geared trikes
Why we like it
This FGBNM chain has 116 links in a 1/2 by 3/32 inch size and uses a double X bridge design from forged steel. You cut it to length with a chain tool.
It matches the KMC for link count at a lower price tier, but with a less proven maker, and it ships without a master link or tool. Best for riders who already own a chain breaker. For a recumbent, plan to join two.
Key specs
| Features | 116 links, 1/2 by 3/32 inch, 6/7/8 speed |
|---|
Specs can change between model years; confirm the exact version before buying.
Strengths
- 116 links
- Fits 6, 7 and 8 speed
- Double X bridge design
- Forged steel
Limitations
- No master link noted
- Unverified brand
Consider it if
- Budget swaps
Skip it if
- Riders without tools
Best Single-Speed4 of 4
Schwinn 112-Link Single-Speed Chain
A 1/2 by 1/8 inch, 112-link chain for non-derailleur trikes.
Best for
Single-speed trikes
Why we like it
The Schwinn is a 1/2 by 1/8 inch chain with 112 links, meant for non-derailleur bikes. It has an anti-drop design and works with a chain tool for DIY repairs.
It is the thickest chain here, which suits a single-speed or hub-gear trike and holds up under load. It will not work with a derailleur. Best for simple trikes; measure the links you need.
Key specs
| Features | 112 links, 1/2 by 1/8 inch, single speed, anti-drop |
|---|
Specs can change between model years; confirm the exact version before buying.
Strengths
- Heavy-duty 1/8 inch build
- Anti-drop design
- 112 links
- Works with standard tools
Limitations
- Single speed only
- Shorter link count
Consider it if
- Single-speed trikes
Skip it if
- Derailleur drivetrains
Spec Comparison
Key figures side by side. A dash means the brand gives no figure, so ask before you buy if it matters to you.
| Model | Features | Link |
|---|---|---|
| XIAOTINGZI 6/7/8 Speed Chain Kit Best Overall | 126 links, 6/7/8 speed, master links, chain breaker | Check price |
| KMC X8 8-Speed Chain Best Quality | 116 links, 8-speed, Double X Bridge, nickel plate, 286 g | Check price |
| FGBNM 6/7/8 Speed Bike Chain Best Budget | 116 links, 1/2 by 3/32 inch, 6/7/8 speed | Check price |
| Schwinn 112-Link Single-Speed Chain Best Single-Speed | 112 links, 1/2 by 1/8 inch, single speed, anti-drop | Check price |
How We Chose These Extra-Long Bike Chains
- Link count
- We looked at stated link counts first, since a recumbent trike runs the chain far longer than an upright bike and a normal chain often falls short.
- Speed rating
- Chain width must match the cassette, so we kept speed ratings clear and separated single-speed chains from the 6, 7 and 8 speed options.
- Tools and links
- Master links and a chain breaker make joining and cutting to length practical at home, so kits that include them ranked higher for first-time buyers.
- Honest limits
- Most picks come from lesser-known brands, and none has a long-term durability record we can point to, so we describe what each offers and leave durability as an open question.
What to Look for in an Extra-Long Bike Chain
Link count
A recumbent trike routes the chain through a long path, often with idlers, so it needs far more links than a normal bike. A 116-link chain may not reach on a big frame.
Measure the old chain, or wrap string along the full route and count the links, before choosing between 112, 116 and 126 links.
Speed match
A chain made for 8 speed is narrower than a single-speed chain, and the wrong width binds or skips under load. The width has to match the cassette or hub.
Check your cassette speed and buy the matching chain, since a 1/8 inch single-speed chain will not run on a geared cassette.
Master links
A master link lets you join two chains into one long run and later open it again without a tool. That is the standard way to build an extra-long chain.
Buy a kit with master links if you need to join chains, and check whether the chain you pick comes with one.
Chain breaker tool
You need a chain breaker to push out a pin and cut a chain to length. Without it, even a perfect link count cannot be trimmed to fit your trike.
If the kit has none, buy a breaker before you start, and plan the cut with the chain laid along the real route.
Chain coating and care
A plated chain such as the nickel-plated KMC resists rust better than bare steel, but all chains need clean lubrication to run quietly. A long chain collects more dirt along its path.
Lube with a product suited to your paths, and wipe the chain regularly so grit does not wear the long run.
How to Choose
By Drivetrain
| Situation | Our pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Geared, need to cut to length | XIAOTINGZI 6/7/8 Speed Chain Kit | 126 links plus master links and a chain breaker |
| 8 speed, quality shifting | KMC X8 8-Speed Chain | Smooth shift ramps and nickel plating from a known maker |
| Geared, tight budget | FGBNM 6/7/8 Speed Bike Chain | 116 links that fit 6, 7 and 8 speed |
| Single speed or hub gear | Schwinn 112-Link Single-Speed Chain | Heavy-duty 1/8 inch width with anti-drop design |
Kit vs Chain Only
- Kit
- The XIAOTINGZI kit includes master links and a breaker, so a first-timer can cut to length or join chains without buying anything else.
- Chain only
- The KMC X8, FGBNM and Schwinn supply a chain and you bring the tools, which suits owners who already have a breaker and master links.
Most first-time buyers should choose the kit unless they own a chain breaker.
For Joining Two Chains Specifically
- Look for
- Master links and a matching chain width, so the two chains join into one run that behaves like a single chain.
- In this comparison
- The XIAOTINGZI includes two pairs of master links, and the KMC X8 and FGBNM share a speed range, so two of either can be joined if the speed matches.
When to Spend More
- Spend more if
- You shift often with 8 speed; choose the KMC X8 and keep it clean with a lube from /accessories/best-dry-bicycle-chain-lubricants/.
- Save if
- You ride occasionally, where the FGBNM is enough with its 116 links and its forged steel build.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long a chain does a recumbent trike need?
It varies widely by frame and routing. Measure the existing chain, or route string along the path and count the links, and remember that 112 to 126 links is the span these picks cover.
Can I join two chains?
Yes, with a master link. Keep the chains the same speed rating so the widths match, and check the joined run on the trike for kinks before riding.
Do I need a chain tool?
To cut to length, yes. The XIAOTINGZI kit includes a chain breaker and pliers, while the KMC X8, FGBNM and Schwinn chains do not, so plan to buy one if you pick those.
Which speed rating should I buy?
Match your cassette. The KMC X8 is built for 8 speed, the FGBNM and XIAOTINGZI cover 6, 7 and 8 speed, and the Schwinn is for single speed only.
What lube should I use?
A dry lube suits dusty paths and keeps grit from sticking to a long chain. See /accessories/best-dry-bicycle-chain-lubricants/ for options.
Will one KMC chain be long enough?
Possibly not. The KMC X8 is 116 links, which may be short on a big recumbent, so measure the route first and order two chains plus a master link if needed.
Bottom Line
Buy the XIAOTINGZI kit for the most links, at 126, plus master links and a chain breaker, or the KMC X8 for smoother 8-speed shifting from a known maker. Measure the route first, match the chain to your cassette speed, and expect to join chains on a big trike.