After a little over a year and with my original chain kinda grimy and noisy I decided to replace the chain. I've already replaced the cassette to a 12-26 but I never replaced the chain like everyone always says to do. Still worked fine but I noticed it wasn't as smooth and, again, a bit noisy of late.

So in my search for a cheaper Ultegra chain PerformanceBike.com had the DA 9spd chain for $22. The same price as the Ultegra chain I was looking at. so I bought it and decided to install it tonight.

Determining the length was easy since I already have an existing chain. So I measured the chain side by side and cut the chain to the proper length... easy. I basically used Park tools online guide, which, incidentally, I use more than the actual Park Tools repair book I bought.

After installing the pin and oiling the chain I put it on my trainer and shifted through the gears. What a difference a new chain makes. It's a simple, fast and easy thing to do with the right tools. It shifts so much smoother now and the drivetrain is so much quieter.

I am not sure if it's because it's a DA chain or just because it's new. Maybe both. I've only had the stock 105 chain so I don't know if an Ultegra would feel the same.

Either way if your drivetrain is a bit crusty and old a new chain makes life just a little bit nicer.

BTW, I saw that on Cambriabike.com had the Park Tools roll up workshop on sale for $109! (reg ~$150) If I didn't win mine from Cane Creek I would have bought this one! It's a really nice tool set for the beginner mechanic like myself that is wanting to learn how to work on their own bike.

Thanks for letting me share!