SRAM 8-speed chains

[Anthony]

If you worked in an LBS and you were trying to persuade me that a PC890 gave better results than a PC870, or that a PC870 gave better results than a PC850, what would you say?

I know the 890 is all nickel-coated, the 870 has nickel-coated outer plates and the 850 is all grey, but so what exactly?

 

[FluffyChicken]

I would say the PC890 was all silver and so the mud and grease would slide off it easier making you riding more efficient. The PC870 is mid way due to only being half and half.

I have no scientific backing for any of this, but I've watched enough TV adverts and been in PC World/Dixons/Curries to know that that does not matter. Just as long as it sounds plausible

The same goes for KMC X series and Shimano's HG series they follow the same pattern.

 

[Anthony]

I can see that mud and grease might slide off it easier, but doesn't that mean that the oil I put on it would slide off easily as well? I don't want my oil to slide off it easily.

 

[utahdog2003]

Between those model chains, rust protection and wear resistance afforded by the nickel is what you pay for.

That and the bling.

 

[dezmtber]

i second that the nickel plates give much better rust protection.

 

[Agency_Scum]

I just buy the cheapest 8 speed chains off eBay, connect them with Sram split links I save and replace them every 6 months. Job's a good 'un.

 

[FluffyChicken]

I can see that mud and grease might slide off it easier, but doesn't that mean that the oil I put on it would slide off easily as well? I don't want my oil to slide off it easily.

Due to the different adhesive qualities of oil to mud and dirt, the oil still clings to the chain perfectly fine.
Though when the mud eventually gets all messed up in the oil, you will find it easier to see at a glance when it is clean compared to the cheaper brown mud coloured chains.



Could mention rust prevention but not been quizzed on that yet, but I personally know they rust just as well in all varieties, plus I've had the silver flake off in parts. If rust was a priority then I would move you along to the Rust Prevention/Beater chains that are a touch more expensive and still all brown.
The only real reason would be bling