Last Updated on February 11, 2024 by Vinson Lozano
Are you tired of your bike’s chain chipping away at the paint and finish of your frame? If so, it’s time to invest in a chainstay protector.
This often overlooked accessory is crucial for protecting your bike while riding over rough terrain. It can also dampen the noise caused by a slapping chain.
From neoprene wraps to stick-on vinyl kits, there are various options available to fit your bike’s specific needs. In this article, we will explore the different types of chainstay protectors and their advantages to help you make the right choice for your bike.
Importance of Chainstay Protectors for Bikes
A chainstay protector is a crucial accessory that every bike rider must invest in. It serves the important purpose of protecting the bike from chips and scratches caused by a slapping chain.
The protector also dampens the noise caused by the chain hitting the frame, enhancing your riding experience. Additionally, it keeps the bike looking good, which can improve its resale value.
There are several types of chainstay protectors, including neoprene, stick-on, and custom clear vinyl kits. When choosing one, it is important to consider the bike model and size and measure the chainstay circumference for optimal fit. Investing in a high-quality chainstay protector is essential to prevent costly frame repairs in the long run.
Benefits of Chainstay Protectors
Protects bike from chips and scratches
Chainstay protectors are often an overlooked accessory, but they play a crucial role in protecting your bike from chips and scratches. When you ride over rough terrain, the rear derailleur causes slack in the chain, which tends to hit the chainstay and damage your bike’s finish over time.
A chainstay protector serves as a barrier between the chain and the stay, keeping the chain from chipping off pieces of your bike’s finish. This accessory doesn’t just protect the finish but also dampens the noise caused by a slapping chain.
By investing in a high-quality chainstay protector, you can keep your bike looking new and improve its resale value.
Dampens noise caused by a slapping chain
Chain slap is a common problem among all types of bikes, causing an annoying noise and potentially damaging the frame. The good news is that chainstay protectors can dampen the noise caused by a slapping chain, providing a quieter and smoother ride.
By reducing the amount of movement the chain makes as it bounces, the noise and vibrations transmitted to the frame are minimized. This not only enhances the riding experience but also prolongs the life of the bike by preventing damage to the frame.
With a variety of materials and designs available, chainstay protectors are an affordable and effective way to improve your bike’s performance and aesthetics.
Improves bike’s resale value
Investing in a high-quality chainstay protector not only protects your bike from chips, scratches, and noise but can also improve its resale value. A well-maintained bike with minimal wear and tear is more attractive to potential buyers and can fetch a higher price.
Additionally, a chainstay protector keeps your bike looking new and unblemished, which is especially important for expensive bikes and frames. Consider purchasing a custom clear vinyl kit or a neoprene wrap for added protection and noise reduction.
Stick-on options like the VHS 2.0 Slapper Tape and Renthal’s Padded Cell are also effective. Ultimately, investing in a chainstay protector is a small cost compared to the potential increase in resale value.
Types of Chainstay Protectors
Neoprene protectors
Neoprene protectors are a great option for those looking to add an extra layer of protection to their bike’s chainstay. Made of a flexible and durable material, neoprene sleeves are easy to install and remove for cleaning.
They come in various sizes to fit different bike models and provide excellent protection against scratches, chips, and other damages caused by the chain hitting the frame. One of the most popular neoprene protectors is the one made by Lizard Skins, but there are other brands such as Race Face and Lezyne that offer similar products.
Neoprene protectors not only preserve a bike’s appearance but also help dampen the noise caused by a slapping chain.
Stick-on options
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to protect your bike’s chainstay is by using stick-on options. These types of chainstay protectors come in a variety of materials and thicknesses, with the most common options being neoprene, vinyl, or rubber.
Stick-on protectors can be easily applied to the chainstay by peeling off the adhesive backing and pressing the protector onto the bike frame. Some popular stick-on options include custom clear vinyl kits, VHS 2.0 Slapper Tape, and Renthal’s Padded Cell.
DIY options are also available for those who want to create their own chainstay protectors. When choosing a stick-on protector, it’s essential to consider the bike model and size, as well as measure the chainstay circumference to ensure a proper fit.
Investing in a high-quality chainstay protector will not only protect your bike from chips and scratches, but it will also dampen the noise caused by a slapping chain and improve the bike’s resale value.
Custom clear vinyl kits
If’re looking for a more tailored solution, custom clear vinyl kits offer great protection for your bike’s most vulnerable areas. These kits are designed to fit specific frames and sizes, ensuring complete coverage where scuffs and scratches commonly occur.
With these kits, your bike is left unmarked underneath, ensuring it retains its pristine appearance when the time comes to sell. These kits are particularly recommended for more expensive bikes and frames.
Fitting one of these kits yourself is also possible, and the investment is well worth it in terms of keeping your bike looking new for longer. So, consider custom clear vinyl kits for the ultimate in personalized chainstay protection.
VHS 2.0 Slapper Tape
VHS 2.0 Slapper Tape is a tried and tested product that has received a facelift. With a new 70mm wide base, it comfortably fits any and all chain stays, offering added protection and sound damping.
The malleable silicone rubber easily molds to the shape of your frame, and it provides quieter performance thanks to the update that has made the air bubbles softer without compromising durability.
Already loved by some of the world’s fastest racers, VHS is the ultimate sound dampening solution for your bike. Applying VHS is easy; give the chainstay a good clean, test the length of VHS, trim accordingly, peel and apply. Then leave it to set, and you’re good to go!
Renthal’s Padded Cell
Renthal’s Padded Cell chainstay protector is a great addition to any bike, providing protection from chips and scratches caused by a slapping chain. Made from durable neoprene fabric, it is designed to cling to the chainstay and prevent it from getting damaged.
The protector is available in four different sizes to fit most frames, and features a low-profile tapered design that combines toughness with a sleek appearance. Laser-etched positioning grids make it easy to set up, while double-stitching and hook-and-loop fabric fastening keep it securely in place even on rough terrain.
By investing in a high-quality chainstay protector like the Padded Cell, you can improve your bike’s resale value and enjoy a quieter, more comfortable ride.
DIY options
Looking a low-cost and creative way to protect your bike from scratch and noise? Why not try DIY options? There are a lot of simple yet effective ways to create a chainstay protector for your bike.
You can use an old innertube and sew it on your chainstay using a baseball stitch. Not only does it provide protection against chain slapping, but it also adds a unique look to your bike.
Another choice is to use stick-on options like BESPORTBLE Bike Chainstay Protector. It is lightweight, easy to install, and fits most road bicycles. By choosing a DIY option, you can easily save money while ensuring that your bike stays protected and noise-free.
How to Choose the Right Chainstay Protector
Consider bike model and size
When it comes to choosing a chainstay protector for your bike, it’s important to consider the model and size of your bike. Different bikes have different shapes and sizes of chainstays, and choosing the wrong size could lead to ineffective protection or a poor fit.
To ensure the best fit, it’s important to measure the circumference of your chainstay before purchasing a protector. Some protectors come in universal sizes that will work with any frame design, while others are custom-cut to fit specific bikes.
Investing in a high-quality chainstay protector that’s designed specifically for your bike model and size will ensure optimal protection and a perfect fit.
Measure the chainstay circumference
When a chainstay protector for your bike, it’s important to measure the circumference of the chainstay to ensure that you get the right size. This is especially important for neoprene sleeves, which need to fit snugly around the chainstay to provide the best protection.
To measure the circumference, simply wrap a piece of paper around the outside of the chainstay and measure the length. Some protectors come in different sizes, such as small, medium, and large, with specific measurements to consider.
If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to order a size up, as many protectors are stretchy and adjustable to fit a range of frame sizes.
Conclusion
Importance of investing in a high-quality chainstay protector.
Investing in a high-quality chainstay protector can offer numerous benefits to your bike and your overall riding experience. Firstly, it ensures optimal protection to your bike frame from chips, scratches and dents caused by chain slap.
This extends the lifespan of your bike, prevents costly frame repairs, and enhances its aesthetic value. Secondly, a good quality protector dampens the noise caused by a slapping chain, offering you a quieter and more enjoyable ride.
Furthermore, using a chainstay protector improves your bike’s resale value, as a well-maintained bike with no visible signs of wear and tear holds greater appeal to prospective buyers.
Ultimately, investing in a high-quality chainstay protector serves as a wise long-term investment for your bike’s safety, performance, and appearance.
