SRAM PC1 Single Speed Chain 1/2x1/8" w/SnapLock: Delta hardened pins, step riveting, and nickel-silver plating on upper-end models for extra durability.
Strengths: Looks pretty good, the snap-lock connector really is easy to use and seems to really do the job. Not heavy, by my standards.
Weaknesses: Haven't noticed any, so far. Looks like I overpaid which wouldn't be the first time with this particular LBS, but I was in a hurry so had no choice.
Bottom Line:
Unlike many previous reviewers, I've had absolutely no problem with the installation of the chain or its performance. The included snap lock connector works just as it says in the manual. I replaced a very worn chain and aluminium sprocket with this PC-1 and a Tokyo Fixed cog, so my general impression has been absolutely positive: the drivetrain is dead silent now, no skipping, NO stiff links at all and it's probably the best-looking SS chain I've ever had.
My first use of the PC-1 was at the Red Bull Mini-Drome in Warsaw and I managed to get to the quarter-finals, possibly thanks to the new chain, wink, wink.
it would be awesome if it wasn't for the noise and stiffness. One reviewer has me a little baffled, I've been out in rain quite a few times because I commute every day on it and it hasn't shown any signs of rust.
Bike Setup: SS/fixed custom painted Purple brougham frame and fork, 18T Surley cog, 110/130 48t origin8 crankset, Green Velocity Deep V rims laced to Paul track hubs, green King headset everything else is stock so far
Strengths: Cheap, Good looking, Widely available at any shop in UK
Weaknesses: Terrible rust resistance
Bottom Line:
I used this chain for a couple of months without any problems, maybe stretched couple of mms, It was a bit noisy but hey who cares after the price paid for it.. Anyways everything was great until I rode it in a rainy day. Now the chain is covered with rust... I never had this problem with KMCs and I am not talking about the KMC rustbusters. If you are living in a dry environment then its a good chain otherwise dont even be bothered with..
Cheers.
Strengths: Burly, thick, heavy, tough. Black or silver, powerlink, 1/8.
Weaknesses: Wide, had to space bash to prevent interference.
Bottom Line:
I think most of the SSers reviewing this chain have no idea how to properly use a chain breaker.
I ride urban freeride and destroy chains; this one has held up with minimal maintenance. It's a strong, tough, tried and true workhorse chain that costs $10. It's like a freakin motocross chain.
If I didn't have to go with a half link, I'd run only PC-1.
Submitted by
Julius
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: March 4, 2008
Strengths: Strong, nickel plated, cheap.
Weaknesses: Very, very, and I mean very stiff links after tensioning.
Bottom Line:
I'm having a real gripe with the links. They are stiff as heck! When I power down it sometimes skips and I am definitely damaging my cog and chain. At least it's cheap.
Submitted by
Jon
a Cross Country Rider
from Bozeman, MT, US
Date Reviewed: May 25, 2006
Strengths: Cheap, sexy nickel plating, durable, easy to install.
Weaknesses: Makes my bike that more attractive to would be theives...
Bottom Line:
This is a good chain, it looks great, won't rust, won't jump, and well... it's nickel plated. I'll never again buy a non nickel plated chain. This bike is running at 52t by 17t, which is pretty damn steep, I also resist and do my share of skid stops, so that should speak to it's durability. Never had a stiff link either.
Bike Setup: 80's Puegeot ten speed converted with track hubs, Zac wheels, bullhorn bar, carbon fiber fork, centerpull brake with red kool stop V-brake pads pulled by a Deore LX lever.
Bike Setup: Old school/retro Barracuda! (Single speed conversion)
Overall Rating:
Value Rating:
Submitted by
Robin Miller
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, NY, USA
Date Reviewed: October 9, 2005
Strengths: Cheap, looks shiny, snap link connector is convenient.
Weaknesses: INCURABLE STIFF LINKS! This chain is really poor quality. It is plagued by 'phantom' stiff links.. When the chain is not tensioned, all the links seem fine, but when you tension it (ie. start riding), the links start to stick, and you get serious chain skip. A bike with a chain like this is totally unrideable, not to mention that it damages the rear sprocket.
Bottom Line:
This chain is worse than useless. It not only is unusable, but it causes damage to the rear sprocket, and SS rear sprockets can be expensive!
Strengths pretty much hit it on the head. Its a cheap chain that's held up well for me. I'm 220 and ride 3-4 times per week (1-2 of those are commutes tho). No issues.
well i would say dont get it. i snapped it 3 times in under a month. its a peice. when you put it together, your allways going to get a stiff link no matter what breaker you use. and if you try to pull the chain side to side to get the stiff link weaker/out. it dont work, chain is to stiff to go side to side.
