Conclusion. To say I'm pleased with the results of the frankentrain would be an understatement. Considering these parts were never designed to play well together, the Sram GX AXS shifter and derailleur work perfectly on the Shimano XTR cassette.
While SRAM's chains are not directional, THE SRAM QUICKLINK IS DIRECTIONAL. If you look closely you will see an arrow engraved into the face of the quick link. This arrow should put in the direction the chain is moving. Make sure to get this arrow pointing the right way to avoid any chain skipping.
How do I choose? Bike chain selection is firstly decided based upon the "speed" of the chain; this is because it determines the width of the chain. An 11 speed chain for example is narrower than a 9 speed chain, as the sprockets on the 11 speed cassette have a narrower spacing between them.
Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo all use the same chain with 8 speeds. Chain for 7 speeds is a bit wider – 7.3 mm, while a 6 speed one is substantially wider – 7.8 mm. That is why the reverse is not the case and a 7 speed chain and especially a 6 speed one will not work as well on an 8 speed system.
Are all bicycle chains the same size? No, all bicycle chains are not the same size. Size varies on the bike's numbers of sprockets, speeds, the distance between the front chainring and rear cogs, and the number of teeth on them.
Condensed answer: A 12-speed chain can work with an 11-speed cassette. However, it's recommended to avoid using a Shimano 12-speed chain because it doesn't play well with 11-speed chainrings.
SRAM and Shimano cassettes, on either road or mountain bike, are interchangeable with each other as the spacing is the same between the sprockets.
The SRAM rear derailleur (mech) will not work with a Shimano shifter as is; the cable pull and shift activation ratios are not the same between the two systems. If you have an 11-36 (mid-cage SRAM RD) or a 10-42 (long-cage SRAM RD) cassette, you won't be able to use a Shimano road rear mech.
SRAM 12-speedSRAM's 12-speed mountain bike setups use both the XD and HG freehub bodies, once again with the higher-end groups having XD and the more affordable kit using the HG body.
Summary. The difference between the Shimano chain and the KMC is marginal; your choice will always come to personal preference. Despite the inconvenience of adjusting the chain, the Shimano runs a lot smoother and will provide you with long-lasting use.
Gear RangeThe gear steps throughout the 10-51-tooth cassette are strategically designed for pedaling efficiency and optimal ride feel. The first eight cogs provide comfortable and familiar jumps between the gears (10-12-14-16-18-21-24-28), while the top four cogs (28-33-39-45-51) limit the size of jumps.
Do all bike chains have a master link? Nope, not all chains have master links. If your bicycle has derailleurs, it means it's unlikely that your bike's chain will have a master link.
SRAM's 10 and 11-speed master links are called PowerLocks and are not to be reused. According to SRAM, the ridge that joins the two plates of the PowerLock together can be damaged when unlocking it, increasing the risk of failure if reused.
However, even Shimano is now changing its tune and its latest 11 and 12 speed chains are available with master links.
In an emergency situation you can reuse a pin to get you home or to a nearby bike shop. For long term usage, either get a master link or a new pin.
Yes, KMC constructs Missing Link I, II, 9, and 10 for 7.3mm, 7.1mm, 6.6mm, and 5.9mm respectively; all Missing Links are compatible with Sram, Shimano, and Campy equivalent chains. Our chains also feature our XXSP stretch proof treatment. This is a treatment that we have perfected in our years of chain manufacturing.
Sram's 9 speed Power Link was designed to be reused. Sram's 10 speed and 11 speed Master LOCKS are one time use only. KMC and Shimano's master link is also one time use only for 11 speed chains.
Generally 6-7-8 speed chains are the same and 9 speed are thinner, more than 9 speed is a bit specialized. The length isn't as important because you will usually have to shorten the chain to fit your bike. The standard chain is 114 pins (56 links) but you almost never need to know this ( I had to look it up!).
A master link or quick-release link is a roller chain accessory that allows convenient connection and disconnection of a chain without the need for a chain tool. It acts as a set of the chain's outer plates, so joining two sets of the chain's inner plate ends. Such master links may or may not be re-usable.
Comparison Table Best Mountain Bike Chain
| Name | Material | Rating |
|---|
| KMC X10 SL | Steel, Titanium Coated | 4.3 |
| Wipperman Connex 11S0 | Steel | 5.0 |
| Shimano CN-HG53 | Steel | 3.9 |
| KMC K810 | Steel | 4.5 |
Pragmasis Protector 16mm Chain - Strongest Stationary Bike Lock. The Pragmasis Protector 16mm is the strongest stationary bicycle chain lock on the market. This chain is made from hardened Boron steel and weighs a whopping 3.02lb per foot (4.5kg per metre).
Fake ones are engraved with shimano and chain models for both sides of the chain and randomly sorted. There is some expectation with some chains, you can check whether your original chain has a clean side or not.
Are gold bike chains better? There is no evidence that a gold chain gives you better performance or increased durability than the same chain in the standard silver/metallic finish. However, there is no denying that they look awesome.
No. The only advantage of expensive chains within a specific brand is the minor reduction in weight. The ones with extra plating do look nicer and provide some corrosion resistance, but it takes almost no effort to keep your chain rust free.
SRAM's technical manual has this to say: "Use a chain wear tool to measure chain wear and replace the chain when it reaches 0.8% elongation. The cassette and chainrings should be replaced when a new chain is installed."
Most mechanics agree that you should replace your chain about every 2,000 to 3,000 miles, depending on your riding style. Many Tour De France riders wear out two or even three chains on their primary bike over the course of the three-week race.
Every SRAM chain is proudly system-engineered and manufactured in Coimbra, Portugal.
Which brand of chain should you buy? For optimal performance, it's recommended to match your drivetrain manufacturer (the most common are SRAM and Shimano) to the brand of chain. This isn't vital though – as long as the chain is made for your number of gears, it should work.
