Thinking of getting a blackspire stinger as I find I drop my chain a lot on the descents. Do they work and are they worth the hassle? Is there drag associated with running one? It would be fitted to what it primarily an xc bike so don't want to feel like I'm dragging a spare tyre behind.

I've run an MRP LRP – essentially the same thing – for years. Minimal drag and no noise. Can't remember the last time i dropped a chain since fitting it.

Can't understand why more people don't run them, even on xc bikes 🙂

The MRP rollers used to have a much better reputation for reliability, not sure if that's still the case. They'll be interchangeable though so you can fit one when the blackspire bearings inevitably seize.

Stingers work well for me, not much drag if you keep them lubed. I've dropped a chain once, on a very rough section of trail.

Run a stinger on my spicy and it's all good. No noticable drag.
Superstar components also do one that looks pretty similar to the stinger. May be worth a look as stock on the stingers seemed pretty low when I was looking one.

Added a Stinger to my Heckler last summer and its been brilliant, not dropped the chain once and no noticeable drag.

Bit OT but can BB tensioners such as the stinger be used to tension a singlespeed chain rather than having a rubbish rear derailleur hanger mounted tensioner?

_tom_

yes.

Stinger works fine for me.

Same here. Well worth the cost. Used one on Yeti 575 for 18 months including alpine downhills and never lost chain. Drag minimal.

Stinger = excellent.

Ive been waiting a week and a half for one coming from Rush Cyles. I wish they would be in a "rush" to get it to me.

carbon.give them an email.i waited a while for one off them.
1 email and they arrived 😉

Stinger has been great for me, but I would agree on Rush cycles, seems they need a bit of encouragement. Won't be bothering with them again tbh.