New Chain

WatfordKev
WatfordKev Posts: 120
edited August 2012 in Road buying advice
My road bike was supplied with a Shimano CN-6600 chain - ten-speed, 114 links. I've been contemplating a replacement. Partly because I want a red chain (I know, I know) and partly cos the bike is now around 5 years old, probably done around 4,000 miles, and though the chain looks as clean as a whistle (I maintain it myself ongoing and have had two or three LBS services), I wonder if it "should" be replaced?

So, two questions :

1) Should I bother replacing it at all?

2) I've seen a Clark PTFE ten-speed chain with 116 links. As Morrissey memorably chirruped - What Difference Does It Make (if any)?

Thanks for reading and for any advice!
Have a good time. All the time.

Comments

  • maddog 2
    maddog 2 Posts: 8,114
    you should replace it if it is stretched. To measure stratch then invest in a chain checker, or measure carefully yourself. At 4k miles I'd say it probably is stretched. Note, you should think about changing the cassette at the same time too.

    A red chain.... my 7-year old likes coloured chains :lol:

    KMC do good chains but I'm not sure off the top of my head whether the X10 or X10SL is available in colours.
    Facts are meaningless, you can use facts to prove anything that's remotely true! - Homer
  • maddog 2
    maddog 2 Posts: 8,114
    there you go

    http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/KMC-X10-Colou ... 483e1f2351
    Facts are meaningless, you can use facts to prove anything that's remotely true! - Homer
  • Mad_Malx
    Mad_Malx Posts: 5,190
    1) Yes, probably quite worn after 4000 miles (danger of breakage). If it hasn't done so already, it will also wear the (more expensive) cassette. If this is the case, then unfortunately the new chain will not run smooth on the old cassette and you will need to replace this too.

    2) Chains are usually sold long to be shortened as required. If the chain was correct before, you would be advised to remove 2 links - tool required. It would probably work fine without, but with more chain slap.
  • ride_whenever
    ride_whenever Posts: 13,279
    If nothing is worn then you can replace without issue, I'd go for the KMC x-10sl in the black red as it's subtle but looks awesome.
    Neeermad
    Carbon 456
    456 lefty
    Pompino
    White Inbred
  • WatfordKev
    WatfordKev Posts: 120
    Thank you for the feedback, guys, greatly appreciated - maddog I take on board your point about the cassette, as well as the point about your seven year old lol!
    Have a good time. All the time.
  • Frank the tank
    Frank the tank Posts: 6,553
    After 4,000miles I'd be amazed if you don't have to replace the cassette.
    Tail end Charlie

    The above post may contain traces of sarcasm or/and bullsh*t.

Categories