Telkwa

I blew up a chain on my mid-drive e-bike at about 1200 miles. Replaced it with plain old SRAM 1051. Paying more attention to chain mtc. since then.

At least one manufacturer (KMC) is marketing a line of e-bike specific chains. I'm wondering if there's any real advantage to buying chain that's marketed as e-bike specific. Anyone have any thoughts?

alloo

I replace my chain on my mid driver at about 1500 miles. My mechanic could tell that I ride a lot. My mechanic stated that next time he wants to replace the chain and casette.

slomoshun

The added torque on mid-drive chains tends to stretch them with indications around 800 miles. Stretch increases the roller spacing which eats sprocket teeth. New chain will not run against worn sprockets properly, you'll just get accelerated wear. Too much stretch requires replacement of both chain and sprockets. Don't wait too long to replace chain.

Get one of these chain measuring widgets


Ebike specific chain takes longer to stretch.

fly135

Sounds like replacing the cheaper chain more frequently than when it's worn will help extend the life of the cassette.

Telkwa

I picked up a Park chain checker. The CC 3.2. The chain that broke was still within .5%. My wife's was at .75%. Replaced hers too.

So, slomoshun, have you tried some e-bike chain? Do you think it's worth the extra expense?

Telkwa

Hmmm, crickets.
I bought two more lengths of SRAM PC1051, and two lengths of KMC x10e. I've got everything I need for chain cleaning and lubrication. Our ride is almost always the same route and distance, and I started a maintenance record in a 3-ring binder.
Maybe in a few months I'll post back with results.

trailangel

One thing to consider before purchasing a new chain for ebike..... how many links do you need? The Sram PC-1051 comes with 114 links. KMC 10.93 chains come with 116 links. KMC ebike chains come with 136 links. Ebikes tend to need longer chains. Measure first.

Frankenbike27

I know you can buy many titanium parts for a bike, does anyone make a titanium chain? Mine is a cheap setup, motor on frame and gear on the rear rim, it has a 12 tooth gear on the motor and 16 teeth on the rim. i use a custom length KMC and made my own tensioner, worked well all summer. the issue, i changed the rear gear over to 28 tooth for winter, i have to be careful not to give it to much gas or the front wheel comes up (24 volt 450 watt motor) i am seriously worried about my chain, keep a spare one with me. i would love an answer to this also

fly135

Don't know much about different chain materials, but your question suggests that you are more concerned about the chain after switching the rear gear. The tension on the chain should be the same. It's the extra leverage of the sprocket that makes for the wheelies.

2old

Never heard of a Ti chain, but Wipperman used to make a stainless steel one. Don't know whether it was stronger though.