11 Speed Chain Preferences for Campy

[Bici-Sonora]

It's been awhile since I've done a Campy build, and I've never done a Campy 11 speed build.

With Shimano and Sram drivetrains, I've always prefered KMC or Sram chains because they are usually cheaper and I like their quick links.

I know at least one crank maker (Rene Herse) says explicitly to only use a Shimano Ultegra chain for 10 or 11 speed: "When using with 10- or 11-speed, we recommend Shimano Ultegra 11-speed chains – even if you run derailleurs and cassettes from other brands, use a Shimano Ultegra 11-speed chain."

Any concern about using a KMC chain on a Campy Centaur 11 build? Tell me what chains you would use?

I finally got the whole group (the shipping/customs fiasco took 2 and a half months from Germany!) minus the chain so I've got to go shopping.

[FlashUNC]

KMC is fine and works. But I prefer the Campy chains.

[arimajol]

I usually use sram chains on my chorus 11.

[Velocipede]

I've used KMC X11-SL chains on Campy drivetrains before. They make a great chain. And the DLC chains... COLORS!!!! They look and work great.

BUT, I do try and keep things drivetrain wise same branded. Just less chance of noise and problems. But yeah, they work great. Another one is Wipperman Connex 11 chains. Always loved that they did a stainless steel chain.

[bigbill]

I tried a KMC chain on my Campy 11. I thought it was noisy and didn't shift as well. I went back to campy. I bought the tool in 2009, I'm invested.

[AngryScientist]

KMC all the way.

campy chains are excellent, but i dont like to fiddle with push-pins and peening operations. even if i use a campy chain, i'll use a kmc quick link on that chain. the price of the KMC chains is very good also.

[Bob Ross]

Originally Posted by Bici-Sonora

Any concern about using a KMC chain on a Campy Centaur 11 build? Tell me what chains you would use?

Got my first Campy bike in 2016. Record 11-speed gruppo w/ whatever Campy chain they ship with a Record 11-speed gruppo. First time I had to change the chain I tried the KMC X11SL. Worked great. Been using them ever since.

Full disclosure: I also use the KMC X11SL on my SRAM and my Shimano bikes.

[R3awak3n]

I used to do KMC but been finding some good deals on campy chains so I bought a few and that is all I have been using. Of course always use em with a KMC link and working flawlessly after many miles.

[m_sasso]

Generally use KMC X11SL, however find the Campagnolo chains run just a touch smoother and quieter.

[Elefantino]

I use KMC SLs unless I can get Campy 11 cheaper, which is not often.

I'm not sophisticated enough to notice much of a difference.

[ColonelJLloyd]

Originally Posted by Bici-Sonora

I've always prefered KMC or Sram chains because they are usually cheaper and I like their quick links.

Same holds true with 11s. I will never buy another Shimano chain.

Originally Posted by Bici-Sonora

I know at least one crank maker (Rene Herse) says explicitly to only use a Shimano Ultegra chain for 10 or 11 speed: "When using with 10- or 11-speed, we recommend Shimano Ultegra 11-speed chains – even if you run derailleurs and cassettes from other brands, use a Shimano Ultegra 11-speed chain."

I don't know what crank you're using, but let's not pretend that said maker has any fraction of the R&D or engineering behind their chain rings that do the big three.

[Bici-Sonora]

Thanks for all the useful replies Campy-o-philes. It seems they consensus is either stick with KMC, or look for Campy on sale. It is a silver build, mix of Centaur and Potenza, with the CS being Centaur.

[Dave]

The KMC x11.93 that I tried was the fastest wearing chain I ever used. Higher level KMC chains might be better.

Try a Campy chain with a connex link.

[RoadWhale]

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[RoosterCogset]

You might find this worth reviewing:

https://zerofrictioncycling.com.au/chaintesting/