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Transmission / Re: Do More Expensive Chains Last Longer?
« Last post by Andre Jute on March 06, 2024, 07:40:23 pm »Generally speaking it is difficult to tell anecdotally whether expensive chains give higher mileages than cheap chains. There are too many variables. For a start, you used to get twice the mileage from chains on a derailleur bike than I used to get, so I assume you aren't a masher like me. You can probably enumerate all the other factors yourself.
The biggest influence is chain cleanliness. Grinding paste is just oil and dirt. That's why the Chainglider gives most people a big step up in chain mileage -- the Chainglider just about tripled my mileage in an experiment on never cleaning the chain and adding no lube for its entire life. Others reported similar experiences with the Chainglider.
Experiments with KMC's most expensive chains haven't had results nearly that clearcut.
I use the KMC X8 derailleur chain on my Rohloff, mainly because it is cheaper than the equivalent single speed KMC Z-whatever when bought a half-dozen at a time from the late lamented Belfast internet dealer who gave me free carriage to where I live in West Cork.
KMC is a good recommendation because they have excellent R&D, the more expensive the chain, the greater the number of special processes on it. Their factory lube is also widely considered the best.
I were you, I'd spend the money for a Chainglider and a midrange KMC chain, and run the combo on the factory lube for the entire life of the chain. Even if it takes a long time to recover the investment because you'll need a new sprocket and chainring to suit the Chainglider, it'll be worth it in zero bother with cleaning and adjustment.
The biggest influence is chain cleanliness. Grinding paste is just oil and dirt. That's why the Chainglider gives most people a big step up in chain mileage -- the Chainglider just about tripled my mileage in an experiment on never cleaning the chain and adding no lube for its entire life. Others reported similar experiences with the Chainglider.
Experiments with KMC's most expensive chains haven't had results nearly that clearcut.
I use the KMC X8 derailleur chain on my Rohloff, mainly because it is cheaper than the equivalent single speed KMC Z-whatever when bought a half-dozen at a time from the late lamented Belfast internet dealer who gave me free carriage to where I live in West Cork.
KMC is a good recommendation because they have excellent R&D, the more expensive the chain, the greater the number of special processes on it. Their factory lube is also widely considered the best.
I were you, I'd spend the money for a Chainglider and a midrange KMC chain, and run the combo on the factory lube for the entire life of the chain. Even if it takes a long time to recover the investment because you'll need a new sprocket and chainring to suit the Chainglider, it'll be worth it in zero bother with cleaning and adjustment.