My MTB came with SRAM XX1. The original chain lasted about 5 years & thousands of miles through some tough rides, steep hill climbs, deserts, mud, etc. Last year it finally showed some stretch so I replaced it right before a big 5-day stage ride (OTGG, 350 miles and 30,000' of climbing). It's an 11x1 bike and the only compatible chain the LBS had was some generic Shimano. This chain worked fine with the SRAM drivetrain and got me through that ride and lots of other riding since. Yet now, just about 1 year old, it's showing about the same amount of stretch that the original chain took 5 years to show.
That's a big difference. Is it coincidence or are chains really that different? I didn't change my riding style or chain maintenance methods.
That's a big difference. Is it coincidence or are chains really that different? I didn't change my riding style or chain maintenance methods.