And the expectation is that the Red version, with its Hard Chrome coated rollers, will be the more durable of the two. So what makes a chain fast? The brief answer is: larger gaps between the various components, allowing lubricant to travel freely and do its job while reducing the sheer amount of friction between the various chain parts. Examples of this are seen with KMC and Shimano chains, which are both known to show minor amounts of roller-based wear when new, and according to CeramicSpeed, are lightning-fast, too.
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. 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. Furthermore, Shimano offers their products at a much cheaper price than KMC. Well pleased and I have a few in stock now. Mouvaise Herbe Solid chain, way less expensive than campagnol chains. It shifts gears smoothly. Mr Bradley Kmc chains do the job well and last as long as other brands I have used. Easy to remove and refit for cleaning with the quick link. Mr Bradbury Good strong chain, runs quiet and shifts well.
Got as a replacement for the same chain that had done over Km. New chain makes all the difference. Mr Nightingale Excellent quality chain, smooth and silent running compared to original that was fitted. Mr Strathdee I always buy KMC chains because they are reliable, durable, not too expensive and are easy to install.
Mr Cross wow the gear changing is so smooth - have now ordered the same for my other 2 bikes. Mr McInnes Have bought this chain numerous times, works great. Mrs Bellamy Very happy with this chain. Easy to fit and no issues with use. Ian G Use these as standard rear chain on tandem and find they run smoothly and quietly. With proper maintenance easily get 1, to 2, miles out of it. Prof Castro good durability for the price. The service from Merlin Cycles is excellent.
C Johnston I always use kmc chains. The quick link system is so handy! Also good durability. David Absolutely spot on - and quick delivery. Mike H Seems fine and easy to fit. Would happily buy again.
Mr Stebellini The best chain at the right price. Can't go wrong with these on the reliability scale. Brix Strong chain and shift smoothly, no noise in shifting.
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