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TPE16: KMC rethinks chain connection with new Klick Link

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KMC chain klick link chain pin-5

The new KMC Klick Link is an interesting concept, but it’s probably something you won’t see on a bike for another year or two. Why invent another way to connect the two ends of a chain? It seems to be the result of the desire to combine the convenience of a quick link with the added security of a chain pin. But instead of using the current chain pin as the standard, the Klick Link promises easier connection with even better security and performance…

KMC chain klick link chain pin-6

While KMC wasn’t able to provide a lot of information on the new Klick Link, we’re assuming this will be something that will show up on complete bikes rather than aftermarket chains. Instead of using a quick link to connect the chain, each chain will have a special link  on one end which is designed to mate with the female end of any chain link. A special pin is then inserted into the chain and then locked into place with either pedaling or a special too.

Unlike the standard chain pins, the locking function of the Klick Link pin means there is no chance of a stiff link or weak link at the connection and it has a wide flange on one end for even more strength. The connection is reusable, and the chain can be resized by cutting the end of the chain without the Klick Link. It doesn’t seem to be meant to replace the Missing link completely, but more likely a cost effective method of connecting chains securely at the factory.

KMC chain klick link chain pin-4

KMC chain klick link chain pin-2

KMC chain klick link chain pin-3 KMC chain klick link chain pin

On the chain side there is a whole new collection of X11 and X10, SL, EL, and standard chains for Shimano, SRAM, and Campy 11 and 10 speed drivetrains, as well as EcoProTect rust proof finishes for X11, X10, and the Z51 chain.

kmcchain.eu

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18 Comments
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brooks
brooks
8 years ago

“each chain will have a special link on one end which is designed to mate with the female end of any chain link.”
I think you mean the male end of any link?

Ck
Ck
8 years ago

I’m thinking this change might make it not so easy or impossible to disconnect the link by hand or with regular pliers, and force you to buy the special pliers.

anonymous
anonymous
8 years ago
Reply to  Ck

This. As it is, you can open a quick link with channel locks, or sometimes by hand.

The advantage really have to do with whether or not you think a quick link is more prone to fail, and if having 2 instead of 1 substantially increases risk of failure.

JBikes
JBikes
8 years ago

If it works as stated, it seems a much improved way of connecting a chain. The broken/riveted pins used by other chain mfg’s use methods much more prone to user error in what is a safety critical connection. This is especially true with Campy chains, but applies to Shimano as well.

DJ
DJ
8 years ago

That pin will be easier to lose than a Missing Link. Since it is going into the OEM channel, I’m guessing it is also cheaper than using a Missing Link.

Pete
Pete
8 years ago

I had no idea KMC chains failed that often to warrant a “special” pin.

The bigger issue is the constant “proprietarization” of every last little bike part, which is not good for the consumer.

Gef
Gef
8 years ago

Still better than Shimano’s solution

Mike D
Mike D
8 years ago
Reply to  Gef

Haha, THIS. I agree 100%. The silly Shimano pins are literally the reason we always use Sram chains at the shop unless someone specifically requests a Shimano. (We typically suggest the high-end KMC chains for longer wear or upper level chain).

Luiggi
Luiggi
8 years ago
Darryl Duck
8 years ago

Gef, Shimano chains are about to ship with a new designed quicklink…..

greg
greg
8 years ago

this system only applies to OE and packaged chains. it cannot replace the missing link. you cannot add this system to an existing chain, as the outer plates are factory riveted to one inner plate set, with the other end taking the special sliding pin.

Jeff
Jeff
8 years ago

Hmmm, what an invention. Doesn´t SRAM use a system like this for years? a safer and easyer one?

redline9k
redline9k
8 years ago

find me an 11spd quick link that doesnt stretch beyond use after 500+mi and im in. KMC? no, Connex? no.

Equipe á Grumeaux (@veloaficionado)
Reply to  redline9k

The steel used in these links has .2% stretch across the thinnest x-section before it separates. I think you’ll find it will snap long before it ‘stretches’, and wear out (‘elongates’, which is what you are experiencing) long before it snaps. Connex in particular, which is made of harder tougher steel than the Taiwanese ones, but not by much.

puffy
puffy
8 years ago

You won’t find this on complete bicycles because chain for OE is bought in bulk as one long chain.

King County
King County
8 years ago

I never had a problem with the current missing-link design, but maybe this link is a refinement. I like KMC Chains the best.

Technician
Technician
8 years ago

More than often new chain that comes with Missing link is almost impossible to decouple. Only the last KMC set I’ve bought was easy to install and deinstall without touching pin extractor.

nsajf
nsajf
8 years ago
Reply to  Technician

You need the plyer tool

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