zandoval 

The Pin came out of the plate on 1/2 of the link. I was really surprised because up till that point I really saw no reason not to reuse them. On checking my other bicycles I found two loose pins as well. One of them was a KMC and the other a generic knockoff. I don't remove my chains very often so using a new link each time is not a big deal. If I were removing the chains more often, like when Waxing, then I would invest in Brand Name Shimano quick links...

Jeff Neese

Exactly. If a quick link requires a tool also, I may as well just stick with pins. I already have a good chain tool for the bench, and my multitools all have a chain tool. I only use Shimano chains and brand new pins, and always carry a couple of spare pins in my bag. Like you pointed out, pushing the pin out and back in is a recipe for failure.

Garthr

Yes, not all quick links are single use. They make both types. All of the KMC X8, X9 and Z series links I've used are re-usable and it's stated on the packaging. Same with SRAM PC-830/50/70 and PC-950/51/71. Wippermans Connex link also.

https://www.kmcchain.com/en/teach/missinglink
https://www.sram.com/en/sram/models/cn-plnk-9spd-a1

SRAMS have remained consistent in their actuation since they've been around. KMC has varied. Yes, I concur that it's not a great feeling to connect the missing link and it goes together with little effort. Their links they included in a box of 25 X9's however were different, they were so tight I couldn't get any one the together by hand and I had no quick link plier as I never needed one. KMC ended up replacing them, but the new ones weren't much better so I bought a Bikehand quick link plier and that worked. I don't really bother taking chains off one installed anyways as I ride the factory lube as long as I can, with consistent chain wipe downs. Then it's WD-40 and consistent wipe downs for the life of the chain. Been there done that with the religious chain cleaning thing.

sweeks

Even the ones that *theoretically* require a tool can be opened with a piece of brake cable (see for the general idea). There are many variations on this theme using shoelaces, dental floss, paper clips, etc. There are many other ways to do it using ordinary pliers. Since the most likely scenario is taking the chain apart at home for routine maintenance, an inexpensive link pliers probably isn't a terribly radical idea. I like having the ability to do chain service anywhere, so I carry a small Wolf Tooth tool with a couple spare (used) quick links in it. I've only ever used it (away from home) to fix other riders' chains.

smd4

I love mine. I honestly wonder why people use anything other than Connex.

sweeks

Well, to be fair, unless you always buy Wippermann chains, you'll have another kind of quick link to use up.
I *do* agree with you about Connex though... the spares I carry are all Connex.

smd4

I only use Dura Ace chains.

I’m really surprised at the cost difference for Connex links between different speeds. The 9 speed version that I use is $4 or $5 bucks. For 11 speed they’re at least $25!!

sweeks

I'm arrested at the 9-speed stage... this makes me feel somewhat good about that!

smd4

Same.

gkamieneski

One thing to consider is the proliferation of counterfeit KMC chains. I think this is especially true for the X10 10sp model. Possibly this could be a reason for a problem with the quick links.

Best to search on this topic and learn how to reveal a counterfeit KMC chain. Two of my X10 chains I was preparing to install both shook out as fakes.

MudPie

Good point. I was following a BF thread about the counterfeit KMCs. It's hard to imagine enough profit being made from a lowly chain, but I assume the bad guys rely on volume.

MudPie

At that rate, I'd hate to see the cost for a 12-speed version (if they offer one).

daniell

I think that in respect to SRAM chains, the quick link can be used multiple times on their chains 9 speed and below. Ten speed and above, they are one time use.