New Shimano Chain

TiBoy
TiBoy Posts: 366
edited June 2012 in Workshop
I have recently replaced my chain with a Mavic 10 speed one, at the same time I changed the cables, wheels and jockey wheels for some bling (but not the cassette) ever since I made the changes I have been getting a bit of ghost shifting and chain slippage. I thought it was the cables that need adjusting so have been fiddling for weeks with mixed results.

After todays ride I noticed that there is a link that does not sit on the cassette correctly when I back pedal, the link is not stiff and is well lubed so I am assuming the chain is faulty. I am thinking of ordering a new chain but am unsure if the new Shimano chains are compatible with my 6600 Ultergra SL groupo. I am looking at Dura ace 7801, 7901 and ultegra 6701, would these work, I am also using a triple and have read some reviews that some chains are only compatible with double chainsets.

One final thing, if I get a new cassette is there much difference in a 105 and an Ultegra one except the price.
Cheers.
Sunday September Ultegra SL
Raleigh and BSA single speed
Specialised Rockhopper comp disc
And some others

Comments

  • Papa Ado
    Papa Ado Posts: 76
    KMC X10 series are compatible for ALL 10 speed applications - and they come with a convenient Missing Link connecting link.

    If you really want to stick with Shimano, and because you are using a triple, you should look for one of the following chains:
    CN7801
    CN6600
    CN5600
    These all connect via included pin....or get a KMC link at the same time :)
  • amaferanga
    amaferanga Posts: 6,789
    Don't know if your Mavic chain is faulty, but my experience of Mavic chains is not good. Shifting is just not as good as with a quality Sram/Shimano/KMC chain.

    I have a 6701 chain on my Sram set-up so I can't see why it wouldn't work with any other Sram/Shimano 10 speed groupset.
    More problems but still living....
  • keef66
    keef66 Posts: 13,123
    I had one of the cheap Mavic 10 speed chains when CRC were doing them for a tenner. Rough as a badger's @rse initially. Settled down a bit, but the shifting was never as smooth as the 105 chain it replaced. I get the feeling it was fractionally wider than the Shimano chain. It did last a long time though!

    Just replaced it with a new 105 chain / KMC link. Silky smoothness restored!
  • TiBoy
    TiBoy Posts: 366
    Cheers guys, I got a few Mavic ones when CRC were doing them as well but this is the 1st one I have had any issues with (assuming it is the chain) have ordered a 105 chain and cassette from PlanetX, strangley CRC had loads of knocked off their 105 stuff but the sale price was still higher than what PX were quoting as the RRP plus they had more money knocked off, just shows how careful you have to be.
    Sunday September Ultegra SL
    Raleigh and BSA single speed
    Specialised Rockhopper comp disc
    And some others
  • jermas
    jermas Posts: 484
    Have you fitted the quick link the right way?
    I think the mavic chain is slightly wider, so gear setup needs to be good. I've gone through 15 mavic chains and they were great. People seem to give them bad reviews (cheap and nasty). Wipperman manufactured the chains and they are almost identical to their own very expensive stainless ones -which people regard highly. Strange.
  • derek48
    derek48 Posts: 67
    Papa Ado wrote:
    KMC X10 series are compatible for ALL 10 speed applications - and they come with a convenient Missing Link connecting link.

    If you really want to stick with Shimano, and because you are using a triple, you should look for one of the following chains:
    CN7801
    CN6600
    CN5600
    These all connect via included pin....or get a KMC link at the same time :)

    Yep,

    I fitted a 7901 Dura Ace 'directional' chain to my Dura Ace 7803 triple crankset, and four of the side plates cracked. I subsequently learned that none of the directional chains should be used with a triple, although I can't find anywhere it says that on the packaging or fitting instuctions. Anyone want a brand new in box Dura Ace 7901 which I can't use? Cheap. (I bought two)
  • maddog 2
    maddog 2 Posts: 8,114
    Not obvious why using it on a triple should break it.... :roll:

    Let me know what you want for it Derek.

    KMC X10 are a good, safe buy. Having said that, this mag rates the new 105 and DA directional chains

    http://www.tour-qtr.com/epaper_4_2011
    Facts are meaningless, you can use facts to prove anything that's remotely true! - Homer
  • derek48
    derek48 Posts: 67
    As far as I can find out, the angles to which a chain can be flexed sideways are greater on a triple than a double, and the chamfers on the directional chain perhaps make the side plates weaker. Having said that I never cross chain it, so I'm still a bit uncertain. Madison will not replace a directional chain under warranty if it has been used on a triple. £27 posted if you are interested.

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