Originally Posted by anixi

In the TDF two BMC riders had mechanical failures at inopportune times, with race losing results. Movistar had failures, Valverde especially, where the 10-speed stuff failed (rear wheel "broke") causing a 10 minute loss. 10/11 speed chains are fragile, they break when the racers really crank on them without realizing that fact. The whole upgraditis racing has to endure is tragic when you consider that it really is unnecessary. One of the TDF commentators, a past racer during the 8-speed era, lamented the fact that the racers are increasingly hobbled with the new, not-so-improved, junk out there.

I for one will continue to use 8-speed chains and cassettes, despite the fact that the so-called higher quality stuff is at least 10-speed. Now that the 12 speed is out, it's becoming even more problematic. Mechanical failures will be more commonplace I fear in the races. We will be seeing more instances of that poor racer in the TDF left on the side of the road with that missing chain! I consider the situation pathetic!