Bicycle Mechanics - Chain Questions

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sillygolem
07-20-11, 01:10 AM
I need to get a new chain for an 18 speed bike - 6 speed indexed freewheel + triple chainring up front.

Is there any real difference between a KMC and an SRAM chain? In the past I've always used KMC, but the options all seem to be about the same price.

Is there any reason I'd notice a difference between a 5/6, 7, or 8 speed chain?

Kimmo
07-20-11, 01:18 AM
Use whatever. Won't make much difference at all on 6spd.
wrk101
07-20-11, 09:11 AM
I tend to buy online, and the 5/6 speed KMC chain is always the cheapest, and works fine.

KMC Z33 is $4.57 at Niagara, I have never seen SRAm chain at that price.

losi
07-20-11, 10:46 AM
Hi sillygolem,
I am only an amateur only and not tried KMC chain even.
But I already use their "missing link" two of my chain and they are very good.
(Sram has also missing link) But I look their chain catalog what look very good and will try next time also.
good luck.
losi
sillygolem
07-20-11, 01:40 PM
KMC Z33 is $4.57 at Niagara, I have never seen SRAm chain at that price.

With shipping there are several KMC and SRAM models (Z30, Z50, PC830, etc) that come in at around $10-$12, and picking up one of these or a Bell-branded KMC in a store is about the same price.

Maybe that's the difference: A higher quality chain is so much lighter that online retailers can charge a couple bucks less for shipping. :)