PoorInRichfield

Have you used the KMC X12 train on a Shimano drivetrain? In your opinion, how well does it shift compared to a Shimano chain?

X12 – KMC Chain

I'm currently running the Shimano XTR 12-speed chain on Ultegra and the chain is getting worn and needs replacing. I'm tempted by the KMC X12 for no other reason that it comes in a pretty color I want. However, I'm not willing to sacrifice good shifting for a pretty chain!

Sy Reene

no idea, but another option if you like that color scheme
https://moltenspeedwax.com/collections/ybn-12-speed-chains/products/copy-of-ybn-12sp-chain-sla12

yaw

Ybn

primov8

I was back home in NYC last month for a follow up appt with my surgeon. I also got to install a KMC X12 DLC on my brother's R5 w/ Ultegra 8170. No problems running a KMC X12; just about every bike I've owned and built up has always been with KMC X SL/DLC chains. I'll be doing the same on my new Helix with Rival AXS 2x12 this weekend.

jonathanf2

I recently had a chain break on my road bike and when I got home, all I had was a Shimano 12 speed SLX chain for MTBs. On my road 11 speed drivetrain, it's the smoothest and quietest chain I've used. Moving forward, I'll probably stick with "boring" gray Shimano chains.

PoorInRichfield

OP > I'm actually using the XTR 12 speed chain on my Ultegra Di2 11 speed and it works well... hence I'm a little cautious about switching to KMC if it doesn't work as well.

PoorInRichfield

Thanks! I actually had an off brand "oil slick" chain when I first got my bike and I found it didn't shift well, hence going to the Shimano XTR 12-speed chain. As such, KMC is the only other reputable chain brand I'll likely consider as I've had their chains before and didn't have issues.

jonathanf2

Before using the SLX chain, I did try a KMC 11 speed lightweight chain and the shifting was terrible. Another plus for the Shimano MTB chain was better dirt and grease shedding. The chain stays surprisingly clean. Though I read the only downside is if you wax your chain, the Shimano XTR/SLX chains have their own special coating that might interfere with the wax performance.

Random11

I'm using a KMC chain on my Cervelo Caledonia, with Ultegra 11 speed drive train. I don't notice any difference between the KMC chain and the Shimano that came with the bike. It rides and shifts fine. I would have bought a Shimano chain, but during the pandemic my LBS didn't have one and the shop just gave me the KMC. Having used the KMC I would have no qualms about buying another one.

PoorInRichfield

I bit-the-bullet and purchased the "Aurora" colored KMC x12 chain as my current chain is making a clicking noise which is driving me nuts. New chain should be here later this week. I will update my impressions compared to the Shimano XRT chain once I get it installed.

eduskator

I went from a KMC X11SL-1 to a Dura-Ace chain, and I find that the KMC is quieter.