I've re-used the 11 speed links many times without any problems, but I do carry an extra one in my tool bag in the event that it eventually fails. I also agree about it being odd these don't just slip into place or are easy to remove as the 9 or 10 speed links. I believe that probably is related to the narrower 11 speed chain width. It kind of defeats the purpose in my opinion if you still need a tool to remove the link (which I eventually broke down and purchased).