Never mind.. I found the problem (stiff links). Unfortunately I can't seem to replace the stiff links without the new links I install coming out just as stiff as the old ones!!!!!

Try some chain lube, or a different chain tool.

Had the same problem with my Actionbent RR (700/451). Chain would skip when bike was new. It was a stiff link. I did nothing about it (possibly wrong I know) and over time the link loosened and stopped skipping.

Um, the chain tool can fix the stiff link.

I was told that it might not if I ran the smaller, bushingless 9-speed type, which I do. I got a couple of tips and a link from some guys over on another bent board that I'm going to try.

EDIT: It worked!! I just bent the links laterally a few times and all is well in the world.

At least I hope.. I'll find out in a few minutes when my wife and I take them out on the trail.

New chains come with a preservative on them. Did you degrease yours when you got the bike? It can get pretty "stiff". If it still is giving you a problem after the ride, try cleaning the chain well with a good degreaser.

Uuuum... No, I didn't clean the chain, I assumed the grease that was on it was good enough for a while. So I should clean all that off really good and apply some chain lube instead, huh?

-S

I've held up a new chain and had the couple of inches on the end actually stick "up".

Never bothered, myself. To quote SRAM I just wait 'till the first time I ride in the rain (not long, usually) after which the chain will need cleaning and oiling with a decent lubricant.