Bike Chain Guard

Device data
Manufacturing files https://www.youmagine.com/designs/osat-bike-chain-guard
Hardware license CERN-OHL-S
Certifications Start OSHWA certification
Project data
Type
Authors Alyssa Knoester
Status
Years 2018
Made Yes
Replicated No
Cost USD 0.42

The OSAT piece is a universal chain guard for a bicycle. It improves the safety of a bike for people who may not have access to a new bike or chain guard and is attached simply by string or a zip tie. There hasn't been case studies regarding chain guards however there have been stories and research into the significance of bikes in developing countries. Bikes help alleviate poverty in developing countries.

Bill of Materials

  1. PLA Filament
*OpenSCAD and STL Files can be found here [1]
*File:Bike chain guard2.scad
  1. 2 Liter Bottle (free from recycling)
  • Attachment Method:
1.String
2.Zip Tie
  • Adhesive:
1.Super Glue
2.Hot Glue

Tools needed

  1. MOST Delta RepRap or similar RepRap 3-D printer
  2. Potentially a Hot Glue Gun

Skills and knowledge needed

  • None

Print Instructions

For all printed components

Material: PLA

Layer Height: 0.2mm

Shell Thickness: 0.8mm

Fill Density: 15%

Print Speed: 70 mm/s

Printing Temperature: 210 C

No supports necessary.

Total Printing Time: 1 hr 45 mins

Assembly time: >5 min

Assembly Instructions

  1. Cut a section of 6" by 2.5" from the 2 Liter bottle
  2. Glue the bottle in the seam of the 3d printed part see image below
  3. Use string or zip tie to attach to bike

Common Problems and Solutions

  • There were no problems with building or printing, more testing would be necessary for improvements.

Cost savings

  • PLA Material: $0.38
  • Means of Attachment:
1. String: $0.003 (third of a cent for a 6 in piece)
2. Zip tie: $0.01
  • Adhesive:
1. Hot glue: $0.005 (half a cent or less of glue)
2. Super glue: $0.03

Total: $0.39-$0.42

Commercial: $24.28 40J2RZJd6KWCrxUYCbE1q6TvbKL4gAYF3TibSvuNbDy8S0EaArcTEALw wcB, 24 in Guard

Savings:

$23.86-$23.89
98%
Page data
Authors Alyssa Knoester
License CC-BY-SA-3.0
Organizations MTU, Michigan_Tech's_Open_Sustainability_Technology_Lab, MY4777
Cite as Alyssa Knoester (2018–2024). "Bike Chain Guard". Appropedia. Retrieved November 28, 2025.