Chain advice for a single speed

[Andy R]

Last time I used a regular chain on a Singlespeed I got a six inch scar up the back of my calf when it snapped and the nasty Easton DH pedal muched my leg open.

I agree that a 1/8 isn't needed but a beefy 3/32 half link is a much stronger option.

Si

I'd argue that a normal 3/32" singlespeed specific (ie non derailleur) chain is at least as strong as one of those BMX half link chains.

Yes I agree, but the half link chain negates the need for a tensioner (op is using a frame with horizontal drop outs) in most cases. I have used tensioners in the past and they have failed or worked loose on every occasion.

Well, if the OP is using horizontal dropouts (track ends) surely he'd have no need for a tensioner anyway?

 

[orange71]

KMC Z610 HX - it's what I always use on singlespeed and IGH bikes and they've always been excellent.

+1

I did quite a lot of research and this came out tops - and it's available for £10 too

I use one on my singlespeed and I put a lot of torque through it as I run quite a high gear offroad (34:16 on a 29er, which is more like 36:16 on a 26er). Still early days, but no issues at all yet.

 

[MikeD]

A proper chain with one half-link in it does everything a half-link chain does and looks eighty-five times better

 

[velomaniac]

If you can afford it a 1/8th pitch chain designed for Kierin track racing as carried out by the Japanese are meant to be very strong and very well made.
Wippermen also offer many SS chains in many levels of price/performance including one they claim is unbreakable and liked by the freestyle boys as you can land the bike on the chain onto a rail without failure :shock:

 

[kingoffootball]

Well, if the OP is using horizontal dropouts (track ends) surely he'd have no need for a tensioner anyway?

Yeah, it's the original Zaskar vertical drop outs, so I've bought the Surly tensioner and was looking to go down that road - if I have problems with it I'll reconsider, but that configuration will be my first attempt.

KMC Z610 HX sounds good - shame it doesn't come in black, but I guess quality should take precedence over looks.

 

[JamesM]

KMC Z610 HX - it's what I always use on singlespeed and IGH bikes and they've always been excellent.

+2

 

[shedobits]

Whatever you use take a few extra links with you because if you snap the chain you may not be able to refit it once it's been shortened. :shock: