Are all 10 speed chains directional?

brindlescoops
brindlescoops Posts: 465
edited June 2012 in MTB workshop & tech
Hi, my stock chain was full of sand and had a few battered links so I put a new SRAM PC1051 chain on, havent ridden it yet and seemed to index fine on the stand, but suddenly remembered reading somewhere that 10 speed chains are directional. Is this true? If so how do you tell as there are no markings or obvious signs. Cheers.
My biggest fear is that should I crash, burn and die, my Wife would sell my stuff based upon what I told her I paid for it.

Comments

  • bennett_346
    bennett_346 Posts: 5,029
    I hope not, i never pay attention to which way i put my 10 speed chain on! Having said that it's never made a noticeable difference (KMC Chain on sram 10 speed setup).
  • 386ka
    386ka Posts: 479
    I think not, only Shimano 10 spd MTB chains are directional I think..
    A much loved, Giant Trance X3 2010
  • FunBus
    FunBus Posts: 394
    Correct. It was only Shimano chains which were directional. All others fit either way and, for 2013 Shimano are reverting back to dual direction chains as well.

    I'd always recommend KMC - dual direction and compatible with Shimano, SRAM, Campag.....simple!
  • Ghostt
    Ghostt Posts: 192
    I wondered about this when fitting the same chain as the powerlinks have little arrows on them. Soon realised though that regardless of which way you put them, you always end up with one link with an arrow pointing backwards. Haven't noticed any problems on mine.
    Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go - T.S. Eliot
  • Papa Ado
    Papa Ado Posts: 76
    From KMC: to confirm, Shimano 10 speed road and MTB chains ARE directional. Installing them in the wrong direction will affect shifting performance and gear wear.

    All KMC chains are non-directional. In fact, the 2013 design of the X10 is asymmetrical, but still non-directional. Radical plate design - should be in stores soon.

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