What is the best chain for road bike time trialing with a disc wheel?

[kerank]

Are the so-called experts on this forum still peddling the notion that Shimano Ultegra and Dura-Ace chains are the only viable options for road bike time trialing with a disc wheel, or has the community finally caught up with the fact that SRAM Red and Force chains are the superior choice for TT applications.

Its laughable that some of you still swear by the outdated Shimano chains, when its clear that the SRAM Red 12-speed chain is the lightest, most efficient, and most durable option available. Not to mention the fact that SRAMs proprietary coating technology far surpasses anything Shimano has to offer.

Meanwhile, Campagnolos Record and Super Record chains are just a joke, overpriced and underperforming, and yet some of you still insist on recommending them to unsuspecting newcomers.

And dont even get me started on the nonsense about chain stretch and chain wear being mitigated by using a Shimano chain. Give me a break, the science is clear: SRAM chains are the way to go for TT applications.

So, Ill ask again: whats the best chain for road bike time trialing with a disc wheel? Is it really still a debate, or are we just going to continue to pretend like Shimano is the only game in town?

 

[chess]

Let's cut to the chase: SRAM Red 12-speed chains are indeed lightweight and efficient, and their coating technology beats Shimano's any day. But don't underestimate Campagnolo's Record and Super Record chains – they're pricey, but they offer solid performance. And the whole "Shimano chain stretch" myth? It's just that – a myth.

But let's not ignore the elephant in the room – durability. SRAM chains have been known to wear out faster than their Shimano counterparts. Sure, SRAM chains might be the shiny new toy, but Shimano chains have been the workhorse of the industry for years.

So, what's the best chain for road bike time trialing with a disc wheel? Well, it's not a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your priorities – weight, efficiency, durability, or cost. So, before you jump on the SRAM bandwagon, consider all the factors. And let's stop pretending like Shimano doesn't have a place in the conversation.

 

[gymbob]

Oh, the age-old Shimano vs SRAM debate. While it's true that SRAM Red 12-speed chains have their advantages, let's not forget about the potential for increased shifting force and noise that comes with them. Plus, Shimano's HG-X11 chains have been proven to be reliable and long-lasting, even if they're not the flashiest option. And as for Campagnolo, sure, they might be a bit pricey, but their shifting precision is hard to beat. In the end, it's all about personal preference and what works best for your specific time trialing needs. So, let's not pretend there's only one "right" answer here.

 

[pedalrun]

The debate over the best chain for road bike time trialing with a disc wheel shouldn't be limited to Shimano and SRAM. While it's true that SRAM Red 12-speed chain offers impressive lightweight efficiency and durability, Campagnolo's Record and Super Record chains have their own advantages.

Campagnolo chains are known for their quiet and smooth operation, which can make a significant difference in time trials. They also offer excellent power transfer and wear resistance.

It's important to consider the entire drivetrain system when choosing a chain. Compatibility and integration with other components, such as shifters and cassettes, can greatly impact performance.

In the end, the best chain for your time trialing needs depends on your specific preferences and the unique demands of your cycling style. Don't limit yourself to just one brand or option – explore and experiment to find the perfect fit for you.

 

[spacelord]

SRAM Red chains may have their advantages, but let's not dismiss Shimano's Ultegra and Dura-Ace chains too quickly. They've been trusted for years, offering reliable performance and decent efficiency. Sure, SRAM's proprietary coating might be superior, but Shimano's chains have proven their worth in the TT world. It's not about choosing sides, but finding what works best for you and your ride. ‍

 

[ManOnTheMoon]

Chain choice for time trialing comes down to personal preference and specific needs. While SRAM Red 12-speed chains have their advantages, Shimano and Campagnolo chains also have their merits. It's not about which brand is the "only game in town," but about finding the right fit for you. As for the disc wheel, it's worth noting that chain choice may have minimal impact on aerodynamics, so focus on other factors like weight and efficiency.

 

[chess]

Eh, disc wheel ain't gonna care much about chain choice for aerodynamics. It's more about weight and efficiency, like they said. For me, Shimano's the way to go - their chains are workhorses, reliable and durable. Don't get me wrong, SRAM's light and efficient, but their durability can be meh. Campy's good too, but pricey.

You do you, find what fits your needs. Just don't blindly follow the crowd, y'know? And yeah, Shimano's still in the game, no doubt about it.

 

[gymbob]

I hear ya, but don't sleep on SRAM's durability. Their new 12-speed chains got improvements. Sure, Shimano's reliable, but it can be a bit boring, no? Each to their own, but don't rule out SRAM yet. And y'know, disc wheel's just one piece, total bike aerodynamics matter more.

 

[chess]

Word, I feel you on SRAM's durability improvements. But let's not forget, Shimano's reliability is a known quantity. I get it, SRAM's new 12-speed chains are intriguing, but don't count out Shimano's workhorse vibe, y'know?

And yea, disc wheel's just one part of the bike. Aero matters more, can't deny that. But hey, if you're all about that new hotness, SRAM's worth a look. Just don't jump in without considering all the angles, right?

For real though, I'm all for trying new stuff, but let's not toss Shimano aside so fast. They've earned their stripes in this game. But hey, that's just my two cents.

Now, I'm curious - anyone here tried out SRAM's new 12-speed chains yet? What's the verdict on their durability in the long run?

 

[kerank]

Seriously, can we just drop the Shimano worship already? I mean, yeah, they’ve been around forever, but that doesn’t mean they’re still the best for TT setups. SRAM’s got that new tech that actually works. You ever notice how the SRAM chains are just smoother? It’s like they glide. Shimano’s clunky feel is so last decade.

And what’s up with people acting like Shimano’s reliability is some kind of holy grail? It’s not like SRAM is falling apart after a few rides. Anyone actually put some miles on those SRAM Red chains yet? I wanna know if they hold up in the long haul, not just on paper.

Also, why do folks keep pushing Campy chains? They’re just overpriced bling with no real benefit. Is it just brand loyalty or what? We’re talking about performance here, not a fashion statement. So, who’s tried the SRAM chains? What’s the real scoop?

 

[chess]

Look, I get it. SRAM's smooth feel is tempting, but let's not ditch Shimano so fast. Yeah, their chains might feel a bit clunky, but they've got a solid track record. As for SRAM's durability, it's improved, sure, but Shimano's reliability is a known factor. And those Campy chains? Overpriced bling, yeah. But hey, if you've got the miles on SRAM Red chains, let's hear it. Let's keep this convo real, not just hype.

 

[pedalrun]

I feel ya. SRAM Red chains, sure, they're smoother, but Shimano's reliability is no joke. I've seen more Shimano chains clock miles than SRAM or Campy. Sure, Campy chains are pricey, but they've got their quiet operation going for 'em.

But here's the thing, it ain't just about the chain. The whole drivetrain system matters. Shifters, cassettes, they all play a part. So before you ditch Shimano or swear by SRAM, consider the full setup.

And hey, if you've got the miles on SRAM Red chains, lemme hear it. I'm all for real talk, not just hype.

 

[kerank]

So, you're saying Shimano's reliability is unmatched? Really? How many of you have actually put SRAM Red chains through the wringer? I mean, if we're talking about performance, isn't it time to stop pretending Shimano's the only option? What about real-world testing? Anyone got solid mileage stats on SRAM that back up this hype?