Build a long-wheelbase low racer recumbent bicycle

Step 13 Chain management

You will need to make chain rollers from the skate wheels. The idea here is to get the chain under your seat without it rubbing. Drill 5/16" holes near the back and front of your seat (you may need to put the chain in place to figure out exactly where) and install 4" - 5" bolts. I used threaded rod and simply cut off the excess. Mount these with nylon locking nuts.

Remove the bearings from the skateboard wheels and chuck each one to your bench grinder one at a time. Use a sharpened screwdriver or piece of metal to carve a groove in the wheel. Wear gloves and safety glasses! The chain should fit in the rollers freely but not loosely and to a depth of about half the chain. Install these with nylon locking nuts.

Pick up something to use as a chain tube. Black 3/4" irrigation tubing works great. You will need between 2-3 feet. Feed the chain through the tubing before linking it together. The tubing will be mounted with zip ties just behind where the chain stays connect to the main tube. it should extend several inches past the front of your seat if possible. Make sure it's clean. Heat up the ends gingerly with a torch and flare each end out. A ball-peen hammer works good here. This will allow your chain to move through easily without getting snagged by the tube. Heat up the tube if it needs to be straightened. You want it to follow the natural curve of the chain to reduce friction.