Originally Posted by
howheels
I'm always surprised every time I see people hype how "easy" the KMC link is vs. Shimano. I struggled like hell to get the stupid link off a KMC chain a few weeks ago (came with my bike). Popping a pin in and out of a Shimano chain takes me literally seconds with the Park CT-3.2. I don't really understand why the chain needs to come off and on "easily" anyways. Mine only come off when it's time to replace.
Did you use quick link pliers ? They make the job alot easier. Getting them apart with your hands is no fun. 8,9spd links were easier to undo by hand but 10,11spd links are much more secure and need the pliers.
Some other benefits of quick links are faster installation and faster road side repair say if your chain snaps. If its dark,cold and wet. a tiny Shimano chain pin could get lost more easily as you attempt to rejoin it.