🚲 11-Speed Shimano Ultegra/XT CN-HG701 Chain Featuring Quick Link Review

Chains feel like they should last a little longer than they actually are. I ride about 2000 miles every 3 months, so 4 laps a year. I'm not a big guy with a lot of power and mostly ride 18-25mph. I don't do a lot of sprints so overall it's fine, but for the most part I wish they made the chains sturdier to get at least 5000 miles.

We're giving this a neutral 3 star rating for now. The chain itself appears to be in good condition and is the type/size/etc I ordered. However, my problem was with the provided quick link. Despite repeated efforts with additional lubrication, additional help and various methods, it was impossible to click on the link to the location. It appeared completely intact with no visible kinks or breaks in the connection. It just didn't work. Rather than returning and replacing the chain (I ride every…

Sure the Ultegra level chain is good but I've also switched to these interchangeable (quick) main links. If you only change the chain once a year or so, it's difficult to keep in practice to adjust the pin properly, and if you get it wrong your chain could snap or bind while riding. It's much easier to use a quick connect, but get a pair of Park Master Link pliers. All you have to do is test a stubborn limb that doesn't want to fall apart to make the pliers worth the small investment, and they…

A quick connect doesn't seem to solve the problem in my opinion. No special pliers needed so the mechanic told me to install it and it worked fine. 1) Place the quick release skewer UP between the cassette and the crank (make sure the arrow is pointing forward) 2) Place the chain on the largest cog on the cassette and the small sprocket 3) Pull the wheel down with one hand and the pedal with the other hand, tighten to engage the quick connect. I think I NOW agree that it's easier than a pen…

UPDATE (03-2021): I've got about 2500k now - the master link connection works fine. ORIGINAL REVIEW: I have been racing since the late 70's, built frames in the 80's, was a bike shop manager and mechanic until the mid 80's and was 'in the past' a support mechanic and motorcycle official for Coors Classic. I've replaced hundreds of chains, but always with a chin break tool and solid pins until recently. I never had a problem with it, maybe because I developed the fixed pin technique. "Master…