How do I stop my chain coming off when I shift using the front derailleur?

Before you go replacing components, have you tried adjusting the derailleurs? Park tools has a couple of videos that show how to adjust both the front and rear derailleur. It takes a few basic tools and a little bit of time, but it’s very doable.

[Front](https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNG7g83lI-s)

[Rear](https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=UkZxPIZ1ngY)

When the chain comes off at the front, you most likely positioned the derailleur too high and set the wrong limits with the H and L screws.

Loosen all cable tension by undoing the cable

The cage should be around 2 to 3mm above the largest chainring. You can check this by holding a dime or a 3mm allen key above the teeth. Measure the gap. Too high, loosen the bolt and slide the derailleur down. Also check the angle, the derailleur should be aligned with the chain and chainrings. Shift to the large chainring up front and the smallest cog in the back and inspect the position. Rotate if nessecary.

Put the cable back on. You can now adjust the H and L limit screws to their appropriate settings. If the cage doesnt move inwards enough you should increase cable tension by shifting up a few times

Ive found this video to be very helpful: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WI2DxdHHIGk&t=408s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WI2DxdHHIGk&t=408s)

GL!

I can’t tell from the photos, but there are 2 likely causes to most such problems:

1) Parts worn out

2) Parts needing adjustment

If it used to work and then after a while didn’t, that suggests wear, but not necessarily. If it never worked well, that suggests a need for adjustment. The dirt on the chain suggests wear, and in the 2nd and 3rd photos, it looks like there’s less than ideal mating between the chain and chainring, but the chain is also semi cross chained there, but those chainring teeth also look pretty pointy in the 2nd photo, which again suggests wear.

So, you might just need a new drivetrain (chain, cassette, and either 1 or 2 chainrings). People don’t like when I say this, but your easiest path forward is taking it to a shop. Upgrading to 12 speed *is* an option, but you’ll need more parts (shifters, derailleurs, c&h, bar tape) and, unless you specifically want 12 speed for whatever reason, isn’t a very practical option.

By cleaning your bike

Your chain looks like it’s stretched. Top and bottom look like they’re sitting up high, not properly between the teeth. When they get too far, they can start wearing out your chainring and cassette faster, too. I’d start with a new chain and see how it rides, if you’re still having problems then it’s time for a new chainring as well.