A Dremel like tool will let you grind the heads of the rivets down enough to gently tap a small chisel in and remove the side plate. If you are fitting a new chain with a rivet link then you will probably need a tool to turn head over properly, I've had people tell me they've done it without but wouldn't be my preference. Depends what bike you are fitting the chain too, my own rule of thumb is anything under 50 bhp I'm happy using a split link, bit arbitary I know but never had one let go or heard of anyone who has - any thoughts/expereience out there on this from others?
