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Just checked my GX 12 speed chain after about a year and its at about 0.75 worn so its time to replace. Its only done 800km but a lot of that will have been in slop.
So, is it worth spending a bit more on a xo1 chain or less on an NX chain? or is it much of a muchness? is there another brand 12 speed chain thats worth checking out?
Cheers
I'd just go with another GX
Read an interesting article that basically concluded that the XO1 chain was cheaper per mile than the GX/NX ones. However, if you're racing, there is a 4W power loss over other chains die to the tight tolerances.
I like more expensive chains just for the corrosion resistance if nothing else.
Where is this article? I keep blowing up GX chains.
FYI, you're supposed to replace 11 and 12sp chains at 0.5 wear.
I didn't really believe the mechanic who told me, but it turns out its true and the newer Park chain checker now measures for it.
Always replace ours with the X01s. Usually keep one spare and the keep an eye out for when any are on offer and try and find a voucher code.
I have been running a KMC 12 speed chain and it’s been flawless, I have broken SRAM GX Eagle chains with plates cracking.
https://m.pinkbike.com/news/4-key-facts-from-the-cycling-tips-ultimate-chain-test.html?pbref=p
I started here, but went into a bit of a rabbit hole with it.
I went down the rabbit hole to the Cycling Tips article.
https://cyclingtips.com/2019/12/the-best-bicycle-chain-durability-and-efficiency-tested/
Based on that for the OP - GX.
Interesting article though - all those that bang on about 9 sp (8sp, 7sp ad nauseam) being more durable - the chains most certainly aren't going by that testing.
The other relevant question is how clean you keep your drivetrain.
The other relevant question is how clean you keep your drivetrain.
I’m good at keeping my bike clean, I have to keep it stored in the house.