Originally Posted by
TheRef
It's time to replace my KMC chain that came with my Fuji Gran Fondo. I have about 5000 miles on this chain and never had any issues until now. It started to skip a bit and I used a friends chain checker and voila it's time for a new one.
I have a few quick questions and seeking suggestions. I have two set of wheels with 10 speed 12-28 and 12-27 105 cassettes. The crank is a FSA Grossamer 50/34 and 105 5700 shifters and derailleurs.
1- I know that HMC, Shimano and Sram chains are cross compatible. IS there any advantage of one versus the others? My shop only had shimano in stock 105 or the old ultegra. They said they can order any chain I want.
Hi TheRef
I prefer SRAM but KMC would be my second choice. I would not choose Shimano because I rely on a power link to be able to easily take my chains off for cleaning (SRAM and KMC offer this feature). As far as which model chain to choose, the more expensive chains usually offer you two things: lighter weight and nickel plating for rust resistance. Check Amazon.com for chains---you can usually get a good deal there.
Originally Posted by TheRef
2- AT some point I can see myself going to a 11 speed set up- Should I go with a 11 speed chain now( I've been reading that that would work) ?
No! This is a bad idea. The cogs in your 10-speed cassette and the chainrings are thicker than their 11-speed counterparts. Because of this, the 11-speed chain is not as wide and will not fit well or shift well with a 10-speed system. Your chain width is dictated by the thickest gears on your bike. If you have 10-speed cogs or chainrings, you should use a 10-speed chain.
If you plan to upgrade to an 11-speed rear derailleur and cassette in the future, that would be the time to switch to an 11-speed chain. But you'll need to check to make sure that your 10-speed chainrings will be compatible---they may need to be changed, too.
Originally Posted by TheRef
3- I can See myself going with a 32 cog on the rear since I have another bike for the flats. I know I'll need a new long cage rear derailleur but can I leave the chain long until I get it?
No! This is another bad idea. You should use a correct chain length whenever possible. If you want to save money in the long run, go ahead and change your drivetrain components before you buy a new chain.
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There's one thing that has been overlooked here and it's important. When a chain is replaced because it has stretched (as they all do eventually), you should always replace the cassette, too. Why? Because, as the chain stretches, it wears the teeth on the cogs differently. Putting a new chain on an old cassette with misshapen teeth will also cause problems.
Kind regards, RoadLight