Which Chain? (Chains / Size / Width / Wear)

was going to ask tons of questions about replacing the kmc z510HX on my langster but mdcc your posts above seem to have answered most of my questions.

One thing, you recommend the wipperman 1z1, is it better than the z510hx? As i see it the kmc is not a bad chain either and its the rust proof version.

Also is the spring clip connector easy to get on on the 1z1?

Lastly, would it be a problem to shorten the chain by a couple of links from the originals length?

The galvanised versions of KMC chains are suffixed -RB (e.g. Z510RB), anything else isn't as corrosion resistant as the 1Z1

The 1Z1 has a conventional spring clip (not the nasty snap link of the 7Z1) which is very easy to assemble with some thin nosed pliers. You can do it with a screwdriver, but it's less easy to control and you usually end up with the spring clip flying across the room, never to be seen again

Shortening the 1Z1 is easily done even with lightweight chain tools, it doesn't require the brute force which makes the 1R8 such an attractive proposition for racing.

The great advantage of the 1Z1 over the Z510 is that the Wippermann is bushed whereas the KMC is bushingless. Bushingless is an excellent idea for dérailleur chain which needs to flex sideways, but that same flexibility makes it easier for the chain to jump off the chainring on a fixed or SS bike. I have samples of the two chains on my desk, and the difference in sideways flexibility is really obvious even over the 16 link offcuts in front of me.