Originally Posted by
FBinNY
I run chains near the maximum because it leaves me room to change to a larger cassette or remove damaged links if I ever need to. While some people run minimum length and carry spare links, my spares are already in the chain.
I've heard the clink-tink and felt the non-restiance of a broken chain. It's nice to know you can just take off links to be able to put it back together and continue your ride.