I’m looking for a decent, reliable chain, not over priced. I’d prefer a chain with easily replaceable links. My Shimano chain drives me crazy sometimes.
I’m looking for a decent, reliable chain, not over priced. I’d prefer a chain with easily replaceable links. My Shimano chain drives me crazy sometimes.
What drives you crazy about a Shimano chain? If you’re looking for something that has a removeable link, you can add any of the masterlinks available (e.g. SRAM) to a Shimano chain.
I’ve used nothing but SRAM chains for the last 10 years. Never broken one, even on the mountain bike.
Ive used ''Wipperman" with the connector link for 2years, and had no problems with shifting or anything.Its EASY to take off on put on.I clean my chain about every 250 miles ,this is the chain.Sram also has the samething I think for alittle less.My feeling is beter is better,ya got to get the power to the wheel.
I have had good success with Wipperman. The nickel plate is cheaper and better value than the stainless.
I got SRAM on my roadie and Wipperman on my P3. No problems with either.
I’ll second this. I’ve been using Dura-Ace chains with SRAM quick links for a long time. Never had one break and they work flawlessly.
I’ve switched from DA to SRAM and been very happy with the difference. I understand that SRAM owns Sachs, who acquired or owned Sedi who made the best chains ever. This may be one explanation as to why SRAM chains are so nice. Bottom line: quieter, smoother shifting, and the powerlink or powerlock in 10 speed allows for the chain to be safely broken for cleaning or repairs. A nice tool to have for opening powerlocks is here: http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=5&item=MLP-1
I’m currently running the SRAM 1090R on two bikes and getting about 3000 miles between replacements. This chain is almost an oz lighter than a DA chain if that means anything.
Do you carry a couple spare links with you to a race or training ride in case chain breaks you can quickly repair? That’s kinda where my mind is. I’m doing IMFL and I’m thinking how to best protect myself from flat tires (i.e. post on tufo sealant) and broken chains (i.e. this post).
Given that I’ve experienced zero failures of the quick link in 4+ years, it’s not anywhere near the top of the list of items that I contingency plan for. However, a spare link is only a few bucks and takes no room in saddle bag or wherever you carry stuff on the bike. It would be very simple to stash one somewhere for peace of mind if you’re worried about it.
The first 15 years of biking/tri-ing, I used Shimano chains with no problems or breaks. Then I switched to a Whipperman stainless steel about 5 years ago and the chain broke after 6 months. They did have a bad batch of stainless steel chains. Probably was one of those. I then switched to SRAM and had no problems. This spring I got a new Felt B2. Came with a Shimano chain and I added a Whipperman Conex link (made for Shimano chains) and have been happy with it. So over 20 years I’ve only had one chain break and that was probably due to a faulty chain. So just go with Shimano chain (cheaper) with a Whipperman Conex link (Shimano specific) and you’ll be fine.
Thanks for the suggestion. I think that is what I’m going to do.