CHAIN UPGRADE, a waste?
#1
CHAIN UPGRADE, a waste?
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!
#2
Senior Member
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.
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.
#3
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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.
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.
Last edited by Iride01; 01-28-24 at 10:56 AM. Reason: at not as
#4
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!
#5
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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!
No. You won’t. More expensive chains are typically lighter, which in your case would not help your ride.
#6
Banned
Yep, use your chain up. When it is done you will be fine with the least expensive Shimano, KMC or SRAM.
#8
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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!
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#9
Full Member
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.
#10
Senior Member
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.
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#12
Senior Member
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!
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