My Cannondale is showing signs of chain wear after 2,500 miles and while it still has some life in it, it will need replacing soon. So, since I don't know what to buy or where to get it, I was hoping to get some advice here from my fellow BF members.

The bike has a standard compact set up (50-34)(12-30) 105 10 speed. I figure if I am going to replace the chain, I might as well get the best value out there. I would prefer a higher quality chain since I weigh 215 and tend to mash the pedals on climbs.

Also, do I want to buy a master link and link tool while I am at it? It makes sense for ease of monthly chain cleanings.

So, can you people recommend some chains and where to get them, along with a master link and tool (if I need them)

THANKS!

Any 10 speed chain from anywhere you choose KMC is good. link in the box.
If you have to pay shipping get more at once so cost per is Lower.

may have let it wear too long so need a cassette too.

I get My stuff from My LBS unless they dont have an Account with the right vendor .

Yes Buy more tools.


I dont own a 20 or 30 speed Bike My IGH stuff is Low Maintenance..

Unless you ride hundreds of miles per week off-road and put too much lube on your chain monthly chain cleanings are a waste of time.

I do around 700 miles a month

I use KMC on my bikes. Several other good brands.
You need a basic chain tool to cut it to the right length, then use the quick link to install it. I would avoid a chain that doesn't come with a quick link.

I never clean my chains any more. I just add lube and wipe off the excess.

Contemporary Shimano group should get a shimano chain. At least that's what I do. Shimano may make only one 10 speed chain now--not sure. I know that they stopped making a Dura Ace chain and my next one will be 6700. I clean my chain on the bike with a Park chain cleaner and reusable kerosene.

you can find good bargains on KMC chains on ebay.

last purchase was an X10SL for $26.

Thanks for the advice, I found a KMC Ti Gold chain on Amazon and the reviews are really good. Longer life with minimal stretching over it's life. $33 inc link so I think I should get it.....

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I already have something in my cart to get me over $50, so shipping is free.

Have bought only KMC chains for 10+ years. Chain tool needed to shorten a new chain to the right length, then join with a master link. (previously suggested by homebrew)

The chain on my garage door opener is a KMC . I was surprised when I discovered this so I think they must make a good Chain. I used that brand on my trek and was impressed with the appearance of the product.

Another vote for KMC.

When you change the chain, you may find that it slips on the rings of your rear cassette. Over time, the chain and cassette have sort of mashed into each other so that they work OK together, but replace one of them and...

So anyway, you may also need to replace your rear cassette.

Another KMC chain user. I have had pretty good luck with them, and run them on most of my bikes.

Its always good to have a chain tool if you own more than one or two bikes. I like the park CT-5. Its small enough that I take it on tour with me, but robust enough to use in the shop. The CT-3 is bigger and more expensive but nice.
I also have one of these, https://www.amazon.com/Bicycle-Break...+chain+breaker
not to bad.

In a pinch, you can just get one at walmart, but it will be pot metal and break pretty fast. Might last long enough though.

2,500 mi would be awfully short life for a cassette so I wouldn't worry about that too much.

KMC makes a good product.

I agree. If your cassette is Shimano HG then a Shimano HG chain is best. For as often as I replace my chain, I'm not interested in saving a few dollars on KMC or other brands.

Any experience with the Park CT-6.3? Found it interesting, but can't find much feedback on this one.

No I don't Don't use eleven speed, or much campy, which is what it seems to be made for.
It sure is a cool looking tool though.

I do have a CT-2 which I just found out was discontinued. Gonna have to start babying mine.

Bill, be sure you have a pair of master link pliers, any brand. It's really annoying not having one.

Ok thanks. Though to mention, this tool is supposedly good for 5 thru 11 speed chains, and ALSO works with Campy (in addition to the other brands out there).. so it's seemingly good for everyone.

Maybe, if you are up this weekend, we can replace the chain and go for a ride? I am the type of guy that can do about anything once I have seen it done but replacing the chain seems straight forward enough, but you know.... first time jitters on my own bike.

If not, I will give it a try but I do not have a link plier..... and if I order it now, I'll get it after the chain is already on the bike.

[MENTION=424062]NYMXer[/MENTION], I'll text you.

Thanks Tom, your input is always appreciated.

I've had good shifting and long life with SRAM chains, and buy a couple at a time to spread out the S&H cost.

I keep my leftover chain piece, a pair of spare quick links, and a chain tool in my roadside bag.
Haven't broken a chain yet, but it's not unheard of, and if you're 30 mi from home and can make a splice, it saves an embarrassing phone call.

I also think many of the 10-sp quick links are not re-usable, so might buy a card of 4 to have around.
KMC - $8 for a card of 2 sets - cheap.

You can use a plumber's wrench to undo quick links. Any of the big brands, including KMC and Wipperman make good chains. SRAM chains have awful sticky grease from the factory, that being said I have a pile of them because they were $13 for 10-speed chains. Higher quality chains usually just are lighter and have things like hollow pins that do nothing to increase durability, although some coatings on higher end chains might add a few miles worth of wear.