Mountain Biking - Choice of Chains

Which would you choose between a SRAM PC-69 or a Shimano XTR chain? I kinda like the power link idea, but wonder if the shifting will be as crisp with the SRAM chain. Anybody have any experience with a SRAM chain on a Shimano Cassette?

No doubt, go for SRAM.

I'm always using a SRAM chain on a Shimano cassette, no problems at all.
Some people say that switching gears doesn't go that smouthly with a SRAM chain but I don't feel a difference.

I use an SRAM chain on a Shimano cassette (albeit with an SRAM derailleur) and haven't noticed any problems shifting, someday I'll upgrade the wheels and get a decent SRAM cassette though.

Richard

I`m no big fan of mixing drivetrains, i stay with the same brand to get a smooth shifting bike and to avoid long time adjusting, but hey thats just me!

Sram PC69 with Ultegra Cassette on my road/cross bike and PC59 with XT cassette on my MTB. The road bike is so smooth it makes virtually no noise but the MTB is more 'audible' shall we say.

The chain and cassette on my MTB are brand new but compared to my old chain and cassette (PC59 and XT again) they are not as smooth as they should be. I am going to have my mates at my LBS look at it.

I always carry a spare gold Power Link as well, just in case. It costs next to nothing and you have instant chain repair without any fangled tools. All in all I'd go for it. :)

Thanks guys, I think I will get the SRAM. I may need a cassette too, so then I can go all SRAM. I thought my chain might be getting a little worn and when I measured it, it was 1/4 inch longer than what Sheldon said it should be. Guess I waited too long!:) But it still shifts great.

Hey D.G. I'll also add a vote of approval for the SRAM chain. I've been using them for the last three years and have yet had one snap on me. Plus the powerlink makes it so easy to install...

Currently I have a SRAM PC-69 (I think) and an XT cassette and it shifts flawlessly.

Thanks Joe, The pc-69 was the one I was going to order. I'm just trying to decide if I need a new cassette. I may just go ahead and order one too. I hate to pay shipping twice!:)

An update on my last post. My LBS checked my bike out and its nothing to do with my chain or cassette. They are still looking however! :eek: They tried a Shimano chain with the XT cassette just to make sure, but it made no difference whatsoever.