ArgoMan

Hi all. I'm slapping a 1x on my bike and got to wondering, are there any real advantages to "upgrading" my chain? Maybe a KMC chain? I currently use the Shimano chain that came with the groupset I purchased. So, the chain in question came with a Sora FC3550, which is a bit older. Chain is in really good shape, not many miles logged on it. I'm not looking to "go faster" or anything, but if an upgraded chain can give me a noticeably smoother ride, I'd be interested. Any advice here? Thanks!

bargainguy

If your current chain is stretched, yes, it's worth replacing.

You can use a Park CC-2 chain checker, or just measure 12 inches across 12 links, middle to middle rivet.

If your chain is 1/16" more than 12" across 12 links, time to replace.

If your chain is 1/8" more than 12" across 12 links, you've waited too long.

Chains that aren't stretched shift better, are generally quieter, and prolong the life of your drivetrain.

If you do need to replace, using any chain with a master link system (KMC, SRAM) makes for easy removal and maintenance. Even if the original chain didn't use a master link.

Iride01 

Any advantage would seem to be lost if the old chain still had usable life left.

But depending on what new 1x crankset you put on it, you might need a new chain regardless.

I find that well used chains pedal smoother, but at some point the shifting suffers.

ArgoMan

Thanks. The chain has less than 500 miles on it. My concern is about whether or not I'd get an overall better ride if I "upgrade" to a "better" chain. I ride short distances of about 9-10 miles, 3-4 times a week, but at a fast pace with regular explosive pedaling up gradients. This hard pedaling comprises about 25% of my riding time. Thanks again!

bampilot06

No. You won’t. More expensive chains are typically lighter, which in your case would not help your ride.

shelbyfv

Yep, use your chain up. When it is done you will be fine with the least expensive Shimano, KMC or SRAM.

DCwheeler

I'm likely to swop in a Gold KMC SL chain purely for the aesthetic - if it looks fast I'll feel faster at least.

eduskator

I don't believe you would notice an appreciable difference. A top-tier chain is obviously better in terms of performance, but the gains are marginal and you sacrifice - too much - lifespan. That's one of the reason why I buy Ultegra chains instead of DA.

coupster

You won't gain anything but bragging rights if you upgrade the model of your chain as well as losing some thickness in your wallet. However depending on your setup, going to a narrow-wide chain may be warranted by the 1x change.. When I built up a formerly 2x bike to a 1x, I was regularly dropping the chain on big bumps, i.e. RR tracks. A switch to a narrow-wide solved the problem. Its also quieter and feels smoother. YMMV.

choddo

Do you mean chainring because surely all chains are narrow-wide?

coupster

Oops elderly brain fart. Sorry. You are correct.

Camilo

The answer is no. Except for very, very, very marginal gains, virtually imperceptible, spending more money on a "higher end" chain is not an upgrade.