8 speed chains.....

[jgjones095]

I have an m950 xtr 8 speed cassette. I'm looking for compatible chains.

I would like an ig90 but they are rare as hell now!

so alternatives;

hg91 chain?

hg93 chain?

7701?

thoughts...

 

[fagin]

KMC.

 

[02gf74]

Re:

I used to have 8 speed cassettes and bought all manner of chains, ig, hg ... and never noticed that one was any better.

 

[hamster]

The only real difference seems to be durability. SRAM or KMC seem to last longer for me. Don't buy the bottom of the range SRAM one, it doesn't have hardened links, all the others in their range do. Beyond that the difference is largely microscopic on weight and a load of glitzy colours.

Shimano chains run quieter IME, but at the expense of a life half that of SRAM or KMC.

As XTR cassettes are irreplaceable these days, go for a durable chain to minimise cassette wear.

 

[legrandefromage]

As above - ANY chain designed for 7/8 systems will work. 9spd chains too so if theres anything that you fancy, go for it.

 

[jgjones095]

Re:

ok so if 9 speed chain is good on the 8 speed then I'm considering the 7701 xtr 9 speed chain.

I'm guessing it would be fine?

yeah I know their are other brands but I'm wanting to stick with shimano and want top quality chain as I don't want a cheep chain wearing my cassette out prematurely

 

[Mike Muz]

Re:

I tend to use SRAM PC870 chains for 8 speed bikes I have, or PC970 for.9 speed.

I have a new in the box Shimano 9 speed one if you're interested. Not sure which model,but I can have a look tonight.

Mike

 

[ceo]

not freaky lightweight but really long-lasting (full nickel coated) is the connex 808 chain

 

[salesguy]

@jg

Any 8 speed chain will work. Obviously the better chains have advantages the cheaper ones don't.
BUT, if you don't care about it being an 8 speed chain, use a 9 speed chain. I have been "one upping" chains for years. They work exceptionally well They last longer, are quieter, shift better and the cassettes last longer too. Even in mountain situations, one upping a chain works great.
So yes, you can use a 9 chain on an 8 drive system. 10 on 9, 11 on 10. But try and stick to better chains.

On a side note, KMC makes some of the Shimano chains. So if you get a KMC, yes, you are getting a quality chain. Taya, Yaban and Izumi all make excellent chains. As well as Wipperman. And the huge plus with a Wipperman....Stainless Steel! SO no rust.

Hope that helps.