Do I really need to carry a chain link tool ?

[Salty seadog]

As mentioned a few times a good multi tool will often have one incorporated into it. I carry a Topeak 18+ which does just about everything you need. Only used the chain breaker once in anger and that was on a friends bike on the mtb trails. Worked a treat.

 

[jefmcg]

How is this thread still going? Oh, yeah, because of people like me

The first time I changed a cassette and chain, I got the breaker that came with the halfords tool kit. I couldn't make it work, so pulled out the Topeak Hexus, and it broke the chain in seconds. So I am pleased I had it for that reason alone.
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Whether you take one is a matter of your self reliance and your risk tolerance. Something can always happen to make your bike unrideable. Most of us wouldn't go out without a spare tube and an inflator - and some . I'd carry 2 tubes, a patch kit and a tyre boot before a chain breaker. I don't carry spokes or a chain whip, so there are some breakdowns that could easily happen that I am not prepared for, but I know I won't that far from civilization in most of the areas I cycle, so walking for help is always an option.

Now I think about it, an external battery for my phone is probably my most important accessory after the essentials. A phone with a charge + a signal + credit card is the most versatile repair tool.

 

[alecstilleyedye]

You'll be fine if you buy decent chains, change them when they should be and most importantly fit them correctly.

I've never heard of a snapped chain that isn't due to one of the above.

i’ve known a clubmate snap a chain on a brand new bike. lucky for him, i had not just the tool but a 9sp powerlink too...

 

[guitarpete247]

Years ago I was one of the ride leaders on a school bike ride. One kid had a bike in such poor condition that I had to shorten his chain. But eventually we had to call for school minibus to collect him. I was the only one with chain tool or any toolkit at all. I always carry toolkit, now multitool, levers, tubes etc. even on short rides.
Last year I stopped to help a fellow cyclist walking with his bike. He refused any help whatsoever. Preferring his 3 mile walk home rather than me offering to give a tube and offer to fix (fairy attack) for him.