NoWhammies

I've done some Google searching and I can't find an answer. Hoping someone here can help me out.

What is the difference between KMC X11SL and KMC X11EL chains? And what about the KMC X11L?

I see the X11L, the links do not have space in them, whereas with the X11EL, the links do have the spaces. Does this mean I need to worry about chain longevity/breakage?

Sapperc

X11SL is KMC’s lightest chain. It has hollow pins. It’s their top line uncoated chain. The EL series has solid pins, and is their mid level chain. X11L is their least expensive chain for 11 cog cassettes.

The differences basically amount to weight and cost. All of their chains are reliable and durable.

NoWhammies

Thank you @Sapperc. I recently purchased the EL chain, but when doing a search online I kept coming up with SL comments/reviews. Anyway. Thanks. Very helpful.

u235

I use 10 and 11 speed SL chains. I don't think I've used and EL but I know the SL lasts me about 2-3x more miles compared to the regular L version. I never broke a KMC chain.

Kedosto

The SL is on sale at Universal Cycles so the difference is only about a dollar.


-Kedosto

Princess_Allez

This is interesting. On motorcycles, the heavier more robust chains last longer, while the lighter chains are more performance oriented and don't last nearly as long.