KMC X8 8-Speed Silver X-Series Bicycle Chain Compatible with Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo and All Major Systems

I purchased this to replace a really old and original chain on my Schwinn 24 speed mountain bike. I purchased the KMC X8.99/X8 Bicycle Chain and not only does it look great, it seems to be of better quality than my original. It comes with everything you need, including instructions and a missing link link. Once I had everything measured and popped the pin out, everything from there was pretty straightforward. Got the chain back on, and using the missing link, (which my original did not have) it makes it very easy to connect the chain together, and be on your way. I ended up using a different missing link only because of the color, but the one that comes with with the chain seems of better quality than the one I used. (this is just a recreational bike) The missing link link that comes with it is the same nice silver color as the chain. The chain overall came nicely lubricated, good packaging and fit perfectly after sizing it correctly. My old chain was very old and with this new chain my bike feels different when pedaling. Everything works. Shifting is smooth, no skips or jumps and very quiet. I have already ridden 30 miles on it and am happy I changed it. The chain just overall seems high quality and much nicer than my old chain even when new. Most importantly the compatibility, and fit is perfect on my bicycle. The size and links of the chain match up with my original.

My 8-speed cassette with medium level Shimano parts commuter bike had about 4k miles on it. I ride it most weekdays in nice and rainy conditions. I do keep up with the maintenance but lately it became rougher to shift and could hear some grinding. Thought the cassette was worn but after a close inspection the cassette was fine. Even though I regularly lube everything thought about changing the chain and cassette. I first took off the chain and upon inspection found it was about 1/4 inch longer if you stretched it as compared to this KMC chain with the same number of links. Using the Masterlink changed only the chain and WOW it was like a new bike.Yes the masterlink did not snap in and seemed loose but it is difficult to push it back to dislodge the link. I thought about using the chain link tool to compress an original link but that is difficult to do and even after press fitting an original link it seems to bind there a bit, so I went with the Quick Masterlink.This KMC chain is definitely smooth and very good shifting, maybe even better than the original Shimano chain.

Chain was self installed by an older biker using a road bike for exercise in a hilly N.J. location. Basically running about a two mile loop around the home neighborhood. Terrain is such that it requires a lot of gear shifting to manage it. Guesstimate the inclines running up to 4-5%. As a result the derailleur system is experiencing a lot of wear for a frequent 10-11 mile loop. These KMC chains provide a good, smooth and reliable shift. I am using it with a triple chain wheel and a 11-32 cog set. The 32 tooth max cogset was a recent upgrade from a 12-24 that was on the bike. Wanted an easier hill climb. So far all is well. Getting smooth quick shifts without a bunch of drama.Installation? What can I say? You should know what you are doing or use a shop to do the work. There is plenty of info on line. Park Tools has some great YouTube content that can help. My advice is to get proper tools for the job. For example the tool to open the master or quick link makes that a nothing effort. Try to fake it with a pair of needle nose pliers or fingers is likely to result in frustration and maybe blood. For a few dollars get the tool.Longevity? Use proper maintenance and it will hold up well.

Was several links too long and had to cut it.Was very difficult to cut. Great chain well made

have replaced a few chains with kmc brand and not disappointed. seem to generally be a little less in cost and this one is smooth and looks good. combined with a new rear cassette the shifts are smooth and quiet. lost one star for the "goop" they coat the chain with. it is so thick and sticky there is no way you could run it on your bike without immediately coating it with dirt an debris. drop it just once on an install an it will need to be wiped clean. it takes work to get this crap off and recoat with a quality chain lube. i cleaned with a citrus degreaser an then coated with a paraffin lube. once dry it is not sticky and attracts/holds little dirt. if you run this chain with the OEM coating you will also coat your derailluer with it and it will quickly be a dirty sticky mess. i emailed kmc about this and never got a reply. i think it is more about rust prevention, when sitting in a wharehouse or coming to the us on a ship, than practical use lubrication.

Bought this to replace my e-bike chain when going up to bigger chain ring. The chain was long enough to fit 56t chain ring. Also came with the reusable missing link. Shifts smooth too.