Replace the chain?

[Reuben]

At 450 miles and chain is measuring 0.5% wear, would you replace it or wait till it gets to 0.75%?

And would you guys recommend replacing it with the same KMC X11e Turbo chain the bike came with or is there a cheaper alternative that'll run as well and last ok?

 

[Snoozeboy]

I'd say yes and yes.

What are you going to save with a cheaper chain, 10 quid?

 

[jabi]

Just use any good quality chain.

 

[Reuben]

I'd say yes and yes.

What are you going to save with a cheaper chain, 10 quid?

Having trouble finding the chain for sale in the UK full stop. KMC X11e Turbo - 11 speed, 126 link chain - cant seem to get it anywhere. Other than ebay from US seller for over £80 including shipping.

 

[Reuben]

Just use any good quality chain.

Dont seem to be many other chains around that length for 11 speed

 

[Snoozeboy]

Having trouble finding the chain for sale in the UK full stop. KMC X11e Turbo - 11 speed, 126 link chain - cant seem to get it anywhere. Other than ebay from US seller for over £80 including shipping.

Blimey, I think I paid about gbp30-40 for mine, here in Switzerland. Have you tried chain reaction cycles dot com?

Edit: it was 33 quid, including delivery. By the way, I'd wait til it was 0.75.

 

[Reuben]

Ok bit odd but the spec says its a 126 link chain but actually i just counted the links and I need the 112 link chain so its all good and not that expensive. Cheers guys.

 

[JimBo]

At 450 miles and chain is measuring 0.5% wear, would you replace it or wait till it gets to 0.75%?

And would you guys recommend replacing it with the same KMC X11e Turbo chain the bike came with or is there a cheaper alternative that'll run as well and last ok?

The only authoritative posting I've seen on this subject is from Park Tools. See Section 4's last paragraph here: When to Replace a Worn Chain

 

[steve_sordy]

Ok bit odd but the spec says its a 126 link chain but actually i just counted the links and I need the 112 link chain so its all good and not that expensive. Cheers guys.

Don't forget that you can always buy a longer chain than 112 and then shorten it. Carry the chain links you cut off in your backpack, along with some quick links. Then when/if you damage the chain you can replace the damaged section and continue your ride.

 

[Reuben]

Thanks Steve and Jimbo.

Ive got the park tool chain wear gauge and had read that article but agree its useful info. Ill get a new chain on asap.

 

[Jackware]

KMC have introduced a new ebike chain the E11, that has stronger links (122) , but not all UK sellers have it yet. I've seen it on eBay for £33.

 

[OldBean]

Change @ .5 otherwise you will knacker your cassette earlier than necessary. and they are expensive!

 

[Dave160sl]

I’ve just ordered new kmc x11e chain from merlin cycles, it’s 118 links which I only need 112 for £32, so hopefully it’s ok ?

 

[Dave160sl]

just got my new chain today, going to replace tomorrow. Does anybody know if the new chain needs degreasing and new lube reapplying before going on a ride. As the new chain seems to be oiled already.