I wondered also if I should buy a Wipperman chain (Wippermann Connex 9X1). They say '9X1 is 18% more durable than common steel chains' (http://www.trisports.com/wico9x1ch.html). But what is a common steel chain? Shimano 105, Ultegra. Dura Ace?

Who has experience with Wipperman chains?

Dan wrote a good review on the Wipperman chain compatible with Campy's 10 speed: http://www.slowtwitch.com/...nents/wipperman.html

And the tool-free connector sounds interesting.

Felix

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http://www.weilenmann.ch.vu

I never used a wipperman chain, I just bought that SRAM hollowtech 9 speed chain, costly but easy to install will see if it is easy to take apart. SRAM chains seem to last longer, Shimano Dura ace/xtr chains seem very smooth, but this new tool free link the SRAM has seems like a plus, but I will carry my chain tool until I gain some confidence with it.

I asked about the Wipperman chains a while back and got mixed responses. But I've been riding one for a few months now and love it. Smooth as butta! Some people complained about the master link failing and others with shifting issues, but I've had no issues at all yet. The only chain I've ever broken was a Shimano. One thing to note is that there is a correct and incorrect way to install the master link that isn't completely obvious. If you do a search on "Wipperman" on this forum, you'll see the past threads.

I'm never going back to a chain that requires the use of a tool to remove. I am going to give the SRAM chains a test drive soon too.

Someone did say that they choose the 10sp Wippermann for their 9sp Shimano drive train.

As to which one you should choose, I'd go 9sp > 9sp. I tend to expect that a munufacturer like Wippermann will have done their research and not recommend going 10sp on 9sp. Check thier web site to be sure.

I have the 9X1 on my 'cross bike that has a 9sp Ultegra-XT drivetrain mix. The chain was VERY easy to install (just make damn sure you get the quik-link the right way as Dan has warned about), won't rust and is pretty quiet. I have a little noise in my drivetrain that I can't pinpoint to the chain. It's just a little annoyance when you really know how your bike's supposed to sound.

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Sean

As you told me the 'New Wipperman Chain question' gives mixed responses. But that connector sounds good.

I probably buy one and test them myself.

How often do you suggest to replace a chain? I know that this depends how the chain is treated and the conditions it is used. But is there a general rule?

Felix

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http://www.weilenmann.ch.vu