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Your bike chains might seem insignificant, but it is just as important as your bike tires. So when upgrading the different components of your bike, you should take them into consideration too.
The common challenge bike riders face when upgrading their bike chains, is deciding which company to purchase from.
There are many chain manufacturing companies, but two popular ones are KMC chain industrial co, ltd and Shimano, Inc. These two companies are known for manufacturing quality bike chains, but there have been many arguments on which chain is a better investment.
Don’t stress yourself about that because this article will help break down all your doubts to enable you to make the right choice.
Before we head over to state these differences, let’s talk a little about the history of these bike chain brands.
A brief history of KMC chain industrial co, ltd
This is a Taiwanese company that makes a large number of bicycle components widely distributed to other bike companies, including their competitor, Shimono, Inc. They are known for their quality of products although considered expensive.
What makes the KMC chains unique?
The KMC chains are made with a diamond-like coating, hollow pins, and plates making them super light in weight. This lightweight often results in maximum performance and speed. One added feature that makes KMC chains unique is their aesthetically pleasing look.
A brief history of Shimano, Inc
This is a Japanese company that manufactures a ton of industrial products such as fishing, rowing, and cycling equipment. They have branches in parts of Asia, and their products are largely available in the market like the KMC chains.
What makes Shimano chains unique?
Their chains are made with Zinc alloy and steel which gives them durability and lightness. Its asymmetrical design makes it possible for improved gear shifts, ensuring a smooth transfer of power down to the pedals.
Now we have discussed a brief history of these two big chain companies, let’s speak on the differences between these two chains under these subheadings:
- Durability and Lightweightedness
KMC chains are popularly known for their durability and ability to resist extensive wear or tear. They are also constructed with a unique design that gives them lightweight. On the other hand, Shimano bike chains are equally durable and lightweight as the KMC chains.
So who wins here – Both bike chains are durable and lightweight at the same rating, so it’s a tie.
- Cost-effectiveness
KMC chains are expensive and not cost-effective, while Shimano chains are more affordable. Here is a question to ask yourself, “does it make sense to invest in such an expensive bike chain when you can get one that is cost-effective for the same durability?”
Your answer lies in your preference.
But, under this subheading, Shimano chains win as it’s more cost-effective.
- Ease of repair
KMC’s design is simple to maneuver, so it is easy to fix the chains with your hands in case of a breakdown. On the other hand, Shimano chains need a specific tool with the right expertise to work on them.
If you are not a professional, this might be a bit of a hassle as you will need to visit your local bike store. Going to your local bike store will still cost extra and evade whatever extra cash you have saved.
Who wins here – KMC chains as it is easy to work on even as a beginner bike rider.
- Compatibility
You can use bike drive trains from other companies like Shimano with KMC chains as they are compatible with them. On the other hand, you have to use a Shimano drive train for a Shimano bike chain, so it offers less flexibility.
Who wins here – KMC bike chains win because it offers more flexibility than its counterpart.
- Gear shifting
KMC chains offer smooth gear shifting same as the Shimano chains. So it’s a tie here for both chains as they both offer reduced delay between gear shifts.
Who wins here – it’s a tie as both offer smooth gear shifting.
- Design
KMC chains are aesthetically pleasing. The materials used give it a sleek design and makes it less noisy. On the other hand, Shimano chains are not as sleek as KMC chains, and they make a lot of noise which most bike riders complain about.
- Materials used
KMC chain materials include alloy/stainless steel, while Shimano chains are made with zinc-alloy steel. Both these materials are quite similar and lightweight.
Now to the question of the day, “Are KMC chains better than Shimono chains?”
The answer to this is based on the preferences of the rider. Do you have a large budget and are willing to invest in a KMC chain, then go for it. But if you need something more affordable and do not mind seeking help from your local bicycle store for the technical know-how then go for the Shimano chains.
Let’s have a look at what others are saying about these two chains
- Will Nunez says: After purchasing the KMC chains, they were not worth the money spent.
- Oxtox says: He had a superb service life from the KMC chains used.
- Mr fingerseu says: He finds KMC chains to be more durable and corrosive resistant than Shimano, and the master link makes it easy to remove the chain.
From this, you can see each speak from their individual experience, so we cannot conclusively state which is better than the other.
Final Thoughts
Your bike chain shouldn’t be underrated because it also affects the functioning of your drive train. Investing in a good quality chain will not only improve your ride performance, but it will also save you a lot of future expenses.
From our discussion, the differences between KMC chains and Shimano chains are slightly insignificant. So, your decision on which to invest in depends on your preferences as a rider.
