Chinertown

Chinese Carbon Road Bikes => Road Bike Frames, Wheels & Components => Topic started by: OlieSimpson on November 24, 2025, 05:46:17 AM

Title: New Chain Recommendation?
Post by: OlieSimpson on November 24, 2025, 05:46:17 AM

Hi guys,

Should hopefully be an easy thread. currently using an 11spd Ultegra chain however it could do with being replaced.

Any Chiner recommendations or should I just stick to Shimano with another Ultegra?

If it makes any difference it's going to be used with a mechanical Shimano 105 rear derailleur and SRoad SLR2 11/28 cassette.

Thanks in advance!

Title: Re: New Chain Recommendation?
Post by: Da11as on November 24, 2025, 06:31:01 AM

YBN SLA or Shimano. There is no point to go cheap on chains.

Title: Re: New Chain Recommendation?
Post by: Dan S. on November 24, 2025, 07:09:41 AM

You can get a Dura-Ace 11sp chain for like 40 bucks, I would stick with that.

Title: Re: New Chain Recommendation?
Post by: offspring_fan on November 24, 2025, 03:22:19 PM

I wouldn't buy a chain without checking Zerofrictioncycling's amazing chain tests:

https://zerofrictioncycling.com.au/chaintesting/

Also chains are something to buy to support your local bike shop, or a reputable domestic retailer. Assume all chains on Amazon/eBay/Aliexpress are fake, and fake chains are shit.

Title: Re: New Chain Recommendation?
Post by: 70Herald on November 25, 2025, 05:09:50 AM

I wouldn't go so far as saying all chains on Ali are fake. I have bought a few shimano (with more than a 1000 km each) and KMC (just recieved but look correct)  chains with no problems at all. BUT I also would only buy from one of the known bike stores on Ali.. and as always, your mileage may vary. 

Title: Re: New Chain Recommendation?
Post by: cycloholic on November 26, 2025, 02:21:20 AM

I just bought a Dura Ace chain on Ali Express and it is definately an original Shimano item. Indeed there are some fakes, just be careful which Aliexpress seller you buy from.