Previously I was using an SRAM powerlink. no problems.

Installing a new chain - the missing link is practically impossible. after 30 minutes i give up and search the interwebs to find this useful tip -

rotate your chain so that the missing link is on top, directly between your cogs and chainring. apply breaks and push on the pedal. SNAP! its in place.

Shouldn't i be able to do this with my fingers??

like i said....no problem with the powerlink. and this is the missing link that came with the kmc chain.

I've used Superlink, SRAM, and KMC links. Never had a problem.

here's the instructions...don't say nuttin' bout applying brakes.
re-usable fit by hand, non-re-usable requires a tool.


https://www.kmcchain.eu/?en/products/...missing_links/

What width chain? I've never had a problem installing KMC links on the corresponding width chain, but a 7.1mm link won't go on a 7.3mm chain, just as an example.

I use the KMC links without issues. I do take some tension off the chain when I reinstall the links. I made a little tool with coathanger wire that I use in taking the tension off the chain.

Hmmm...

Anybody know if the missing link that comes with this chain is re-usable?
https://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/sp/roa...AI650000000000

I'm about to put one on my bike and was assuming it was re-usable until I saw this thread.

I got that same chain from Ribble. I assumed the link was re-usable, didn't know they made the other kind until now. I had a really difficult time getting it connected.

I have never had real problems with the KMC missing link (9 or 10 speed), or the Sram links.

On the other hand, sometimes they just slide into place easily, sometimes I have to do the crank-arm force trick.

I took off a chain w/ a KMC link the other day to give it a quick clean (not a thorough clean, just a real good wiping) and re-lube. I had trouble replacing the link and just couldn't get it to snap. I took it apart again, and hand cleaned both sides of the quick link and the plates on the chain. Then it just slipped into place with very little force. The only thing I can think of is that there was some grit impeding it.

Just FWIW, this is a Dura Ace chain (latest version, 7900? not sure) and a KMC missing link which now has about 500 miles on it without any problems. I've used a KMC link on a Sram 1091 chain as well, no problems.

I believe they changed the design of the link. I got a chain a few months ago and was harder to open it, the old chains open an close w/o any problem.

I picked up a KMC 10 speed chain not too long ago, and it goes together super easy, but I have a heck of a time getting it apart. Seems much tougher than my SRAM chains.
Maybe there's a slight "trick" to them that I'm not used to, yet?

WOnder if they did mods to justify their clip extractor tool thing.

There is a trick, but it's not really a trick. If you put pressure at the right place on each side, the link will slide apart. I found that if you force it, it distributes the pressure unevenly, making it hard to disconnect.

Reusable links are indicated by an "R" on the link (example: CL559R). NON reusable links have a small tab on the inside of the link near the insert. They also have "teeth" in the insert grooves to "lock in" the pin. These make disconnecting harder, thus requiring a tool.

Yes, re-usable. I have one that's on it's 3rd chain now. Gets undone about every 400-500 miles and used for around 7k miles so far. (I like to see just how far some parts can go before actually breaking or wearing out) I have yet to break a KMC quick link after around 20k miles of using KMC chains.

Yes, it's re-usable in the sense that you can take it out, clean your chain and re-install. At least, this is what I do. I toss the whole chain (missing link included) when the chain is worn. I do not re-use a missing link that was on a worn chain. YMMV.

I used the same remedy after discovering last Sunday that nitrile gloves did not produce a tenacious enough grip for me to close a Missing Link 10C on my new and greasy Campagnolo C10 chain.

Before that I was running 9 cogs and C9 chains which weren't peened over and could be split and joined with a chain tool.

The link is almost surely the same dimensions as a new one, and I keep them for emergency use.

Are you saying no wear on the links? if so, then I've surely wasted a lot of money throwing them out with worn chains.

Yes and no. I have installed a bunch of these it's probably 50/50 which I can do with my hands and which I have to follow the directions. I just installed one today and I had to use the directional method.

I will say, that after the first time, I always seem to be able to use my hands, but I probably shouldn't say words like always.

I decided on a Wippermann chain for my CAAD8 build using a Campy 10-speed group. The Connex connector is so simple to remove and refit that I may never install the Campy chain that is still wrapped in the box. It actually takes longer to find the link than to unhook it and remove the chain for clean & lube.

The chains and Connex links were well-reviewed and my experience (so far) is that they've earned their good reviews.