Originally Posted by
CliffordK
Hmmm
The HG53, HG73, & HG93 chains should all be more or less compatible, and you should be able to use any of them.
I bought mine (HG73) from China (with made in Japan printed on the box)... does anybody make counterfeit chains? Anyway, the wear has been quicker than I'd like, so I've been wondering (and looking for alternatives)
The latest batch came with both the quick links and pins, but I can't say if that is universal or just with my particular chains. I never tried the quick links. I may have a couple spares if I can find them, but no guarantee of their quality.
The replacement pins are apparently the same for all 9s chain models.
I wish the information from Shimano was more clear on exactly what differences there is in build and comparability between their 9-speed chains. I think you're likely correct on those three all being cross compatible. Had I known that for sure, I would have considered moving up.
Originally Posted by
canklecat
It's not unusual for a bike with a long wheelbase and long chainstay to need more than 116 links. My Globe Carmel comfort hybrid needs 122 links. I bought a single KMC Z72 chain from REI and the mechanic kicked in some extra identical links, cut from new Z72 chains installed on other bikes than needed fewer than 116 links.
If the KMC Missing Link seems to be binding be sure it's the correct match for the chain. I overlooked this detail a few weeks ago. The Missing Link version one is 7.3mm pin length; the MLII is 7.1mm. I couldn't read the fine print without my heavy duty reading glasses. I noticed the difference only after installing the MLII (7.1mm) on a spliced Z33 chain (7.3mm pins), and realized the Missing Link was binding slightly.
Anyway, now I have a couple of new KMC chains to use for cutting and splicing for future changes. Turns out the gritty rural chip seal and gravel roads I enjoy riding are chewing through chains and cassettes quicker than I'd expected so I'll probably need to replace them every year.
I was under the impression that the Sram PowerLink for 8 and 9 speed chains was the same item, but apparently it isn't. I did use the 8-speed link, so that's probably why I had the issue. On the other hand, the KMC link I used is the 9-speed version, and it caused a bind at the rear cassette. I've got a few Sram PowerLinks designated as 9-speed on order, which I'll try when needed.