Which kmc chain

CeramicSpeed was willing to share some of its recent and typically-secret data about which chains perform best with the UFO V2 race treatment process. The process for applying the secret-formula wax-based submersion lubricant after a multi-stage cleaning process is the same across all chain models, and so it provides a clear and precise indication of the most efficient chains. X11TT chain is a little too fresh to know for sure but is likely competitive with Shimano, too.

However, tolerance or gaps between chain pieces are only a part of the story, and the coatings and chain materials used are also likely responsible. And this finding — of the second-tier chain being faster — goes against the trends seen in other chain brands. SRAM, of course, denies that its chains are slower than the competition, and Brooklyn Fowler explained that SRAM does indeed do efficiency testing and designs its products accordingly.

SRAM has invested many, many years and countless hours to get this right. With increasingly prevalent low-friction coatings and expected improvements to material tolerances with each bump up in price, Shimano chains do show some improvements in durability as the price goes up — at least to a point.

These coatings also help to explain why Kerin experienced a progressive ramp-up of wear rates on cheaper models of chains — likely the result of increased material friction once the coatings had worn away.

At least for Shimano, the efficiency does improve as you spend more. And as mentioned before, the hollow pins found on the Dura-Ace chain are not simply about weight savings — they result in a stronger rivet.

And where the Dura-Ace speed posted better elongation wear numbers, it fell short with the digital chain checker roller play and wear. This is explained by the Dura-Ace chain sample coming out of the box with a measured. Sure, older 8-, 9- and even speed systems do offer wider cog widths which provide increased surface area with the chain, but does that actually mean the chains are more durable? In this, he tested the top Shimano chains from each respective speed, and the results may surprise you.

It seems that with each gear added, durability has improved. The reasoning for this is less clear, but certain materials have improved, manufacturing processes have become refined, and new low-friction coatings have been added. Similarly, the chain designs themselves have changed, and where 8- and even 9-speed chains would see the inner links turn solely on the connecting pins, newer chains typically see these forces shared across the pins and specifically stamped plates, too.

With a business focussed on finding the best drivetrain lubricants and chains to sell through exhaustive testing, Zero Friction Cycling is certainly a unique, passion-fuelled commercial endeavour. As covered in-depth in our Holy Grail of chain lube article , Kerin is a strong proponent of submersion waxing chains for both durability and efficiency, and this is another driver for his YBN recommendation.

Compatibility is, of course, an issue worth considering with such a combination, and as Kerin admits, the Shimano-compatible chainring does prevent him from using the incredibly durable SRAM Eagle chain. The synopsis is that all three major drivetrain manufacturers are doing an admirable job of retaining your business.

Of course, there are exceptions to this. However, and if possible, you should most definitely swap back to the impressively durable SRAM chains in your training.

Campagnolo users, regardless of the level of Campagnolo drivetrain used, should stick with Campagnolo Record chains. Shimano chains are seemingly the most efficient on the market while also offering decent durability. And perhaps the biggest takeaway from all of this testing is that no matter how durable a chain is, the lubricant you use will play the most critical role in drivetrain durability.

Kerin toasted an endless number of chainrings and cassettes in his testing, and basically, any chain that lasted over 2, km ripped through the cassette and chainrings through nothing more than abrasion from the gritty lubricant. Finding the best bicycle chain: What over 3, hours of testing revealed. Want to skip the how and why and head straight to the what? Tags Bicycle Chains. Component Reviews. Editors' Picks. Bike maintenance. Product reviews.

It is also great for those who may not have much experience using chains, saving you both money and time for the not so mechanically minded, and meaning you can avoid a trip to your local bicycle store. It is a quite system and, after I test rode the product for or so miles, it did not stretch. The chains are made of high alloy materials and stainless steel with a mushroom pin; they also have a titanium nitride coating and offer a variety of colors.

The chain is stretch-proof, allowing it to withstand a little more wear and tear and, therefore, allowing more mileage. They are also known renowned for their inaudibility and smooth gear shifting response. KMC Chains are more expensive than the Shimano counterpart. KMC Chains are compatible with other speeds — the most popular choice being the 10 speed. Shimano is a Japanese multinational manufacturer of cycling components and other sporting goods. One of its major components is bicycle chains.

Shimano chains are made of zinc-alloy steel which allows for the production of a durable, lightweight chain — qualities which are generally sought after by competitive cyclists. The chain follows an asymmetric design, with redesigned inner and outer plates; this improves the contact with the rear sprockets for a smooth and quiet shift.

The benefit of improving shifting performance means reduced time delays between gear shifts, making for a smooth shift and, thus, optimal power transfer directly to your pedal. Shimano is one of the top-rated chains and has had a long and successful history of quality products. They have long been considered to have the best speed chains for road bikes.

Media New media New comments Search media. Members Current visitors. Log in Register. Search titles only. Search Advanced search…. New posts. Log in. JavaScript is disabled. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Thread starter lejogger Start date 1 Feb Location Wirral. I know mine is a KMC X10, but there seems to be a fair bit of choice on top of this There are also options which have links I assume this is longer than standard??

My assumption is that these will all be compatible, but will I need to make sure I get the link option seeing as I'm running SRAM Apex with an rear cassette with a longer cage mech? Any advice gratefully received. Location glasgow. I don't know which exact model it is as it just came on the bike, and the website just states KMC X10, not a particular version of the X10 or how many links.

I was hoping someone might know off the top of their head to save me going downstairs and getting my abacus out! Edge Well-Known Member.