Chains
Used road bike chains from Shimano, SRAM, KMC, Connex, and Campagnolo, listed by sellers across the UK. 8 through 13-speed, including quick-link and connecting pin options.
Which chain matches my speed count?
The chain is your drivetrain's most consumable part, and width decreases with speed count. An 11-speed chain is narrower than a 10-speed and won't work on a 10-speed drivetrain (it'll skip). Going the other direction — a wider chain on a narrower drivetrain — causes rubbing and poor shifting. Match the chain to your cassette speed count and your shifters.
Can I mix chain and drivetrain brands?
8/9/10-speed: Shimano, SRAM, and KMC chains are fully interchangeable. 11-speed: Shimano and SRAM chains work on either system. 12-speed: Shimano and SRAM are not cross-compatible — different roller widths. Campagnolo chains work best with Campagnolo drivetrains at all speed counts. KMC makes chains for all systems and is often the best value.
Quick link or connecting pin?
Quick links (Shimano calls them "quick link", SRAM "PowerLock", KMC "Missing Link") snap together without tools and make removal easy. Shimano connecting pins are pressed in — reliable but single-use. Most riders prefer quick links for convenience.
Do premium coatings make a difference?
Standard nickel-plated chains last 2,000-3,000 miles with proper lubrication. Premium coatings — Shimano SIL-TEC, SRAM Hard Chrome, KMC Diamond — reduce friction and extend life by 20-30%. Ceramic-coated aftermarket chains (CeramicSpeed UFO) are for marginal gains chasers: 1-2W savings at race pace.
When should I replace a chain?
Check chain wear every 500 miles with a chain checker. Replace at 0.5% stretch on 12-speed, 0.75% on 11-speed, 1.0% on 8-10 speed. A £15 chain replaced on time saves a £60 cassette and the rest of your drivetrain road components. Clean and lube regularly — dry lube for summer, wet lube for winter, wax for the obsessive.