This is quite possibly one of the most useful pieces of bent metal you will ever encounter, second only to the fishing hook. If you have ever had to break or reassemble a bicycle chain, you will realize immediately how this little wonder will come in handy. The Chain Helper takes the tension off the chain when you're trying to work on it.

No longer will the chain slip out of your hand while you're trying to bring together the two ends. Easily line up Powerlink® links without needing four hands. Avoid damaged pins and links while using a chain tool. Convinced yet? You should be. Best of all, this magical device is practically FREE!

Materials:

• A metal coat hanger or other similar sturdy wire

Tools

• Large needle-nose pliers

1. From a straight section of the coat hanger, cut a length about 3.5" (8.5cm) long.

2. With the pliers, bend each end into a hook. Make sure that the hooks are large enough to wrap around the pins on a chain.

3. There is no step 3. You're finished!

Go ahead and use the Chain Helper when you need to break and reassemble a chain. It's a good idea to carry one of these with you as a standard part of your mobile tool kit. They also make a great gift!

This article is copyright Rebel Cycles, 2006.