Key Technologies in Bicycle Chains

Published At 2025-03-01

The technological development of bicycle chains covers various aspects such as materials, chain plate design, lubrication treatment, and durability. Below are some key technologies:

1. Material and Coating Technology

• Alloy Steel: Most chains use high-strength alloy steel to enhance durability and tensile strength.
• Nickel or Chrome Plating: Prevents rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan of the chain.
• DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon Coating): Reduces friction, improves wear resistance, and minimizes lubrication needs (e.g., KMC DLC chains).
• Titanium Nitride (TiN) Coating: Provides superior wear resistance and corrosion protection, commonly found in high-end chains (e.g., Shimano Dura-Ace).

2. Chain Structure and Design

• Narrow and Wide Chains: Width is adjusted based on the number of speeds (e.g., 12-speed, 11-speed, 9-speed, etc.) to ensure smooth shifting.
• Hollow Plates: Reduce weight, commonly used in high-end chains such as Shimano XTR and SRAM XX1.
• Hollow Pins: Decrease weight without compromising strength, ideal for competitive cycling chains.
• Chamfering and Beveled Edge Design: Optimizes shifting performance and reduces shifting resistance.

3. Shift Compatibility and Chain Flexibility

• Compatibility with Different Speeds: Chain width varies for 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12-speed drivetrains, requiring higher manufacturing precision for higher speeds.
• Wide-Narrow Chain Design: Suitable for 1x drivetrain systems (e.g., SRAM Eagle) to prevent chain drops.
• Hyperglide+ (HG+) Technology: Shimano’s latest shifting optimization technology for smoother and faster gear changes.

4. Connection Technology and Maintenance

• Quick Link / Master Link: Found in SRAM PowerLink and KMC MissingLink, making removal and maintenance easier.
• Detachable Chain Pins: Some Shimano chains use single-use chain pins that require special tools for installation.

5. Lubrication and Low-Friction Technology

• Factory Lubrication: New chains typically come with special lubricants (e.g., PTFE or wax-based) and should not be cleaned before initial use.
• Wax Coating: Found in CeramicSpeed UFO chains, reducing friction and extending chain life.
• Low-Friction Coating (Sil-Tec / Teflon): Shimano applies Sil-Tec coating to reduce wear and noise.