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New build has a Shimano drivetrain and I’m looking to stock up on compatible links that can be reused rather than once-only as I sometimes take the chain off for a proper clean. What can def be reused and works with SLX? Cheers
Just use the cheapest 12sp links you can get, I've used SRAM, YBN and sunrace, the only true reusable one is connex wipperman, could be wrong but I'm unaware of any other, they are about the same price of an SLX chain and rare af, hardly worth the effort n cost if you can even track one down, you're better off buying their full chain.
After getting a bike with 12sp slx at the start of the year, i sought out similar info and advice seemed to be just use the Shimano link again and it loosens up for removal after a bit of riding...found this to be true and often take the chain off for a clean/degreaser with the help of pack chain pliers
I always thought SRAM links were reusable. Probably reuse mine several times before buying a new chain.
I reuse Shimano + Sram + YBN quicklinks; replace them when they stop re-engaging in a positive way. I've a vague recollection that it's all about patents and being able to call them reusable or not rather than any mechanical reason.
Just have one spare in case it goes pop on a ride; I'd carry one regardless for any chain issue tbh !
As above, the only ones I don't re-use are the 10x for £2* ones off ebay /Ali express / amazon. Those seem to work fine once then the pin comes loose from the supposedly fixed side. I still use them though if I've not got a genuine one to hand.
11s MTB work perfectly though, and even 10s work (I guess it might catch on the next sprocket more often in theory, but in reality I forgot about it and ran one until the chain needed re-waxing.
* not the actual price, but too cheap to be true.