How to choose a road bike chain

How to choose a road bike chain

As part of the drivetrain that transmits your power to the wheel, the choice of the right chain is quite simple.

Standards

  • The number of speeds today : 9, 10 or 11 ;
  • The make of your transmission : Campagnolo, Shimanoor Sram.

Chain types

All components of a transmission are designed to operate under speed standardSo you can't combine a 9-speed chain with a 10V transmission, for example. Today, most road bikes are in cassette of 10 or 11 speeds, but 9 speeds are still available.

In theory, it's preferable to fit a chain from the brand of your transmission to ensure perfect compatibility between the various components. However, you'll find that a Shimano chain generally works well with a Sram transmission, and vice versa. On the other hand, a Campagnolo trnasmission is incompatible with any other chain unless it is specially designed for that brand.

In addition to brand and gear standards, some chains offer a superior quality thanks to alloys or surface treatments that are more resistant to wear and corrosion. To lighten your drivetrain and thus limit its inertia, you can also find openwork chains for weight savings ranging from simple to double, depending on the model.

To mount your chains, brands such as Sram, KMC or Yaban offer quick-releasesa quick-releases that simplify this operation. Whereas other brands, such as Shimano or Campagnolo, are only designed to be mounted by rivetingb with a special pin.

Which chain to choose?

Your choice will depend on your use.

For amateur use

Choose a chain with a special alloy or treatment for maximum reliability.

For competition use

Choose a specially treated, lighter chain to optimize transmission efficiency and reliability.

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