Road chains

How to choose a road bike chain

The chain is the most critical wear component in the drivetrain: replacing it in time costs far less than also replacing the cassette and chainrings. Shimano, SRAM, KMC and Campagnolo cover 10-, 11- and 12-speed systems.

Which chain for my drivetrain?

• The number of speeds determines everything: a 12-speed chain is narrower than an 11-speed chain and will not work in its place.
• For 10- and 11-speed systems, Shimano, SRAM and KMC are largely interchangeable.
• For 12-speed systems, stick to your drivetrain brand: link profiles differ.
• Campagnolo requires a dedicated chain, regardless of the number of speeds.

What length, how many links?

• New road bike chains generally have 114 to 126 links and need shortening during installation.
• Common method: chain on the large chainring and large sprocket, without routing it through the derailleur, then add two links.
• A chain that is too short can destroy the rear derailleur if a shift goes wrong.

When should it be replaced?

• Check elongation with a chain wear gauge and replace at around 0,5 % (0.75% maximum).
• A chain replaced in time preserves the cassette; a neglected chain means replacing the entire drivetrain.
• Allow for a new quick link each time it is refitted: it is not designed to be reused indefinitely.

To find out more: How to choose a road bike chain

See also: Road cassettes · Road chainrings · Chain and cassette tools