bob watkinson wrote:
> Anybody got any opinions on any noticable benefits on using a more expensive chain, say a shimano
> or a cheaper option. Is a chain just a chain?
I've NOT noticed that more expensive SRAM (or Sedis/Sachs*) chains work any better than cheaper
models, and SRAM chains seem to work as well as more expensive Campag chains. However, I would be
wary of using a cheapo chain from a make I'd never heard of.
A common difference between models is finish. Expensive ones are often shiny silver. But they all
look black when they're dirty

The finish hardly matters in terms of function. It'll wear out
from use long before it'll corrode away, and any chain will work ok with some lube on it.
In theory, certain chains are supposed to shift from sprocket to sprocket faster than others - hence
Shimano's insistance on sticking with their chains. I'm skeptical that the chain can make much
difference to shifting.
The pitch and width will be compatible whatever normal make/model you get as long as the "speed"
is correct.
One benefit SRAM has over Shimano is the Powerlink (to make removing and refitting chain a doddle).
A disadvantage Shimano have compared to all ordinary makes are those special pins Shimano's have.
None of that messing about with basic chains.
* These makes have been taken over by SRAM, so they're now the same thing.
~PB