Just got through replacing my stock CAAD9-5 chain after 2700 miles. I waited too long and now I have learned.

I bought a new Ultegra 10-speed chain. It was a bit of a learning experience because I bought the chain and it had 116 links. I counted the one that came with my compact and it had 106 so I needed to remove 10 links. I did that and then screwed up with the Shimano bullet-integrated guide/link. I bought three more just so that I would have a couple in my flat kit and when I read the INSTRUCTIONS that came with my Park CT3 tool it was a piece of cake to join the links.

So my first ride will be tomorrow with the new chain. If it breaks I'll come back and tell you how much Shimano sucks. If it works flawlessly I'll tell you that Shimano is the only way to go.

I must admit it looks really smooth and shifted flawlessly on the bike stand.