JWK

The wife and I are doing an overhaul on our Surly DTs. New chains, cables, and we are going to try wax for a season and see how it goes. So we want to get four chains. Like so many who haven't shopped in awhile, I am stunned at the prices. So it goes...

I'm just looking for a decent chain without having to buy Shimano. What exactly makes for a "cheap" chain? What exactly is a bad chain anyway? What makes a good chain? I really have no idea. What to buy and where to get? Also, I will be needing to take these chains off a lot more than I used to when oiling. Do we need to get those expensive links separately, or are the links that come with OK to reuse a bunch of times. I've read various reports regarding this.

Thanks for any suggestions and guidance.

mprince

I use SRAM PC-9xx chains on my bike (shimano drivetrain). I've used them for years without issue and will continue to, as the price isn't too bad, and their quick link (included with the chain) can be used for the life of the chain.

Iride01 

Bicycle chains have been around since the 1880's. Just get a brand name chain that you can afford and you will probably buy a good quality chain. KMC, Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo, Wipperman, etc.

KMC, Shimano and others have chains at different price tiers for some of their speed groups. Don't know how much prices vary for their 9 speed chains.

Since inventory is still screwed up along with rising transportation costs and inflation, you might find prices high. However I actually found a chain a tad cheaper at my LBS last year than I did online.

3alarmer 

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https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/.../rp-prod179573

cyclezen

yeah, I know... the sport went all to hell, pricing thru the roof !!! when they introduced 6 speed freewheels !
now I'm ONLY getting about 3500 miles for every $22 chain... Bah Humbug !
https://www.google.com/search?q=kmc+x9.93+9+speed+chain
I'm almost to having a COMPLETE Chain with all the extra links I've removed on installs...
and then Tires !!!! DON'T GET ME STARTED !!!
Ride On
Yuri

Kedosto

KMC. Great value and easy to use with their master link design. KMC has a chain for every speed and every budget.

mstateglfr 

Less expensive chains tend to gain surface rust easier. I assume its due to whatever finish they do or dont put on the cheaper chains.

Just buy some chains that have a master link and call it good. A 9sp chain will last for so long that you will struggle to remember where you stored the spare chains.

slowpacer

I've been using FSA chains, they work just as well and in my experience are quieter than KMC chains that came stock with my bikes.

Ironfish653

KMC 'X-9' series, or SRAM 'PC-9##' chains do just fine. You'll have to try hard to spend more than $30 for one, and with some looking, you can probably nab one for under $20.
Nickel or Bright finished chains cost a little more, but then the black / gray ones don't show the dirt as easily

Anything with the 'X' shaped side plates, and that comes with a quick-link. The links are reusable, but I'd use the new one with the new chain (if it comes with it) save the old one in your bag for a spare for 'field repairs'

Rolla

If I was going the wax route, I'd buy a supply of master links with the new chains. 4-packs of Srams are about $15 and KMC links are $14 a pair. KMC says theirs are re-usable.

Steel Charlie

I use them on everything. Best chain for the $ at any price point

Rgv700

I have always had good luck with KMC chains.

JWK

Thanks, everyone. I'm going to grab some KMC chains and see how it goes with the waxing process.

Kai Winters

We sell 9 speed chains, SRAM or KMC for $12...you can likely get cheap chains for less. But you always get what you pay for.

JWK

I tried sending you a PM but it wasn't allowed for some reason. Please send me a PM about the chains you sell. Thanks.

Kai Winters

just stating they aren't expensive...not trying to sell them