What chain for my chainring?

[AlexStevens]

I am building a singlespeed bike : http://buildingabicycle.tumblr.com/ and I was just wondering how I would tell what chain I need?

 

[tyred]

It will depend on what sprocket/chainring you are using.

If you are using the original chainrings, that would be designed for 3/32" chain so you may as well buy the 3/32" sprocket to suit it. If you already have a 1/8", then it will be fine to use the 1/8" chain on a chainwheel designed for 3/32" chain ( I do this).

Personal choice and a possible can of worms but I would favour the traditional 1/8" chain for fixed/SS as they are often cheaper, arguably last longer and because they are designed not to flex, they should be less likely to come off.
But if you already have 3/32" sprockets back and front, you may as well us the right chain. Many high end derailleur chains are expensive purely becuase they are designed for easier gear changing on derailleur systems. You don't need this feature so just buy a cheap chain.

 

[AlexStevens]

So 1/8" is my best bet?

 

[4F]

So 1/8" is my best bet?

Either will be fine, just get the same size chain as your chainring and sprocket.

 

[AlexStevens]

But even if I measure wrong, 1/8" will do?

 

[tyred]

1/8" will work fine on 3/32" chainwheel/sprocket but 3/32" will not physically fit on 1/8" chainring/sprocket.

 

[AlexStevens]

Can I measure?

 

[tyred]

Measure the thickness of the sprocket, ideally with Verniers.

 

[AlexStevens]

Tape measure?