What 10sp Chain?

Mefster

After snapping my KMC X10 chain on the Cheshire Cat after about 300 dry miles, I was a bit surprised and disappointed in its apparent frailty. It looked in pretty good nick, and wasn't stretched at all. When it started mis-shifting I stopped to investigate and the service car stopped also- they thought the chain was showing excessive lateral flexibility (I just assumed this was the normal flex for a 10 speed chain, as it's the first 10 speed bike I've had.

The chain had been degreased and lubed as with all other chains I've had. The whole drivetrain is only 300 miles old and so is showing no signs of wear. It's a 105 cassette with Dura Ace rear mech.

I know chain longevity varies considerably, but I've never got through chains at a particularly fast rate (and regularly check for stretch with a guage). My mountain bikes' chains get a much greater hammering and have lasted longer.

Have I just been unlucky or is this the expected lifespan of a lighter weight 10 speed chain? Can anyone recommend a smooth shifting, durable 10 speed chain (avoiding Shimano if possible; I prefer power-links to the snap-off pins)?

Frank the tank

I use KMC X10 chains and have never had any problems on any of my bikes including my winter steed. I think you have just been unfortunate and copped for a dodgy one.

redddraggon

There's been a dodgy batch of KMC x10 chains about - I've two of them after about 400miles each :? There's a thread about it if you do a search.