Originally Posted by
HillRider
That's been my experience also. I seem to get the same mileage out of 10-speed chains (Shimano and Wipperman) as I did out of both 9 and 8-speed chains (Shimano, Wipperman and SRAM) in the past.
It seems every time the cog count goes up, dire predictions are made that the new stuff will wear out faster and be fragile. That doesn't seem to have happened, at least not through 10-speed. I've read that the newer, thinner chains are made of stronger steel alloys and have better heat treatments and this appears to be the case. I have no experience with 11-speed and am unlikely to in the near future.
It is more sensitive. I went back to 8 speed from 10 speed. Much more robust AND cheaper. But like said, didn't measure difference in chain and cassette life. My bikes are now 3x6 MTB and 2x8 road bike. Very happy.
