Bicycle Mechanics - Shimano 10s chain alternatives?

I'm new to cycling, and I have a new bike with an Ultegra 10s drivetrain. I'd like to get a chain replacement that can be removed for cleaning: I understand the 10s chains are susceptible to failing once they've been removed/cleaned/reinstalled. I also wonder if an after market chain might be less expensive than the Shimano-branded chains.

Are there any alternatives on the market that have the master links (is that what they're called?) that can be easily removed and replaced, for the super-narrow Ultegra 10sp chains? Also, are the DuraAce 10s chains compatible? Campy 10s chains?

Thanks in advance/

Whipperman shimano 10 specific. Or, use a connex link with a shimano chain.

Ultegra and DuraAce 10spds chains are swappable. Wippermans and Campy are not much help price wise but the connex link will help in R&R the chain for cleaning. 10spd durability is significantly less than 9spd, so frequent clean/lube is even more important especially with the premo prices demanded. Hopefully SRAM will come out with a value priced version in a year or so. This 10spd mania has done wonders for the profit margins of the Shimano/Campy suppliers.
Steve

I hope SRAM comes out with theirs before a year from now, I hate Shimano chains, and wont pay for a Wipperman. Oh, well.

Whipperman shimano 10 specific. Or, use a connex link with a shimano chain.

Wiperman makes the ConneX link. They actually make two different 10 speed links: 6.2mm for Campy and 6.0mm for Shimano. The 6.2 will work on a Shimano drivetrain but the link will hang up on the big ring if running in a small ring front, three smallest cogs in the rear cross-over chainline situation.

Hope this helps.

Thanks for all the info.

KMC and IRD also make Shimano-specific 10 Speed chains. With the 2006 release of Campy's Ultra Narrow chain (5.9mm), you'll be able to run that as well.

With the 2006 release of Campy's Ultra Narrow chain (5.9mm), you'll be able to run that as well.


Hate to think how much that bad boy will cost. :eek: :mad: :(

Wiperman makes the ConneX link. They actually make two different 10 speed links: 6.2mm for Campy and 6.0mm for Shimano.

Anyone know who sells the 6.0mm for Shimano? I've only been able to find the 6.2mm one.