Time for a new chain. What should I get?
#26
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My preference has changed over the years but without a doubt I would have said KMC as a preferred chain in the 10 speed range. Now I say the following in order:
1. Connex
2. Shimano (I had the join pin and it's the only thing that keeps me from placing it first. Quick link Shimano chains in 11 speed are my preferred)
3. KMC
4. Absolutely anything else or even a rusty trash chain
5. SRAM
YBN and the other Track and single speed focused chains are good durable chains but I honestly have never used them in a multi-speed drivetrain.
1. Connex
2. Shimano (I had the join pin and it's the only thing that keeps me from placing it first. Quick link Shimano chains in 11 speed are my preferred)
3. KMC
4. Absolutely anything else or even a rusty trash chain
5. SRAM
YBN and the other Track and single speed focused chains are good durable chains but I honestly have never used them in a multi-speed drivetrain.
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#27
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Connex would be the preferred choice, but Shimano is easier to procure at around the like price.
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#28
I’m a little Surly
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I use KMC I have two 11 speed bikes and one 10 speed I run an 11 speed chain on all of them.
#29
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I used to use KMC X11 SL Ti-N chains, but switched to YBN SLA110 chains in the last 2 years and they have been great. Adds about 30% less chain stretching, holds the Silca Hot Wax much better than KMC does and generally performs a bit better, all at a better price point. I found the Dura-ace chain to show the most efficient but hate the pin fastener, and having to buy missing links just adds to cost. As the tests on various websites have shown, YBN SLA110 is consistently long lasting. The Ultegra and 105 chains have been shown last as long and also have similar m/$ value. So basically other than m/$, they are all performing within 1-2W/hr of each other and are similar. However, I like black chains and YBN has a great looking super light black chain, that's lighter than the Shimano chains by 10+g, so I stick with YBN. If you're happy with the Shimano Ultegra chains, they are excellent. I personally hot melt wax the chains new, then use squirt wax as top up.