The PC-971 features inner and outer plate designs that offer faster and more accurate shifting at a more affordable price point. The PC-971 uses nickel-plated outer and gray inner plates.
Submitted by
bramasol
a Weekend Warrior
from Lima, Peru Date Reviewed: November 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Pachacamac - Chacritas
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$29.00
Purchased At:
beyondbikes
Strengths:
looks good, powerlink
Weaknesses:
material is way too weak
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Specialized - Enduro
Bottom Line:
PC971 a chain for road biking. I used this chain probably 5 times and snapped on me once climbing a small hill, found out one of the links was bended. Three rides later started having trouble shifting, not knowing why I continued and ended up breaking the middle plate. Today one ride later (5th on this chain) while cleaning the chain I noticed the chain was twisted, yep, a couple linkes were bended which explains why I was having trouble shifting. I'm looking for another chain, definitely will NOT be another PC971.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DriveByBikeShooting
a Weekend Warrior
from burlington Date Reviewed: November 2, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
on a bike i got on c
Strengths:
couldn't find any, other than power-link, which seemed to be the strongest part of the chain
Weaknesses:
broke on me twice in the FIRST week I had this bike... I have been mtn biking for a decade almost and have yet to break a chain, except this one! twice!!!
Similar Products Used:
many other chains
Bike Setup:
c'dale prophet with no chain cause this one broke!!!
Bottom Line:
This came on my bike, I broke it on my first ride!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I brought it to a shop, they put another power link where the old one broke then a week later I broke it in another spot!!!!!!!! holy crap!!! The second break happened about 45 mins ago as I had to walk home... When it broke I smashed my balls on my top tube and they are still in pain!!!
Don't buy this chain, the pins are way too weak... I am a 6" 200 lb rider who pounds on bikes, if you intend to ride hard, get a better chain!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TexK
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa Date Reviewed: July 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Downieville
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint
Strengths:
Definitely the powerlink
Weaknesses:
Durability
Similar Products Used:
Shimano HG-93, SRAM PC-991 Cross Step
Bike Setup:
2004 Iron Horse Warrior Elite, SRAM X.9 Front derailleur, XT Rear derailleur, SRAM Powerglide PG-970 cassette, Race Face Silver chain rings.
Bottom Line:
I was initially pretty excited about this chain. Worked fine for about 4 months on Florida trails. Ultimately came apart on me on a late shift climb. Figured it was me. Bought the same chain and fell apart on me three times in two months. Finally listened to the other reviews and shifted to the 991 Cross Step and have been much happier. A much better and stronger chain and I still get the powerlink.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
xamot
a Cross Country Rider
from Nashville, TN, USA Date Reviewed: May 21, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great chain. Powerlink.
Weaknesses:
None that I have found.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano
Bike Setup:
'08 Specialized Epic Comp - all factory specs.
Bottom Line:
I just had to post up on this one. I don't ride my mountain bike every day, but try to at least on the weekends. And I ride with a bunch of different people. I don't know anyone that breaks any chain like the ninnies posting up on this product review. As for the Sram PC-971, I have ridden it long and hard for about 6 months, including on the hardest trail I've ever ridden (Snake Creek Gap, Dalton GA), and through some ridiculous mud. I'm changing it now because it is time and because I take care of my bikes. I'm going to pick up another one just like it and ride it hard for 6 months or so too.
Oh yeah, and the power link thing is sweet. I've never had that before, but I like it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
HUZZA
a Cross Country Rider
from skeedunk montana Date Reviewed: April 26, 2009
Favorite Trail:
empty ones
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
long wearing good chain
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
wipperman
Bike Setup:
2 bikes
Bottom Line:
I know how to maintain and install a chain, a bet 1k all the people that complain about chains have either a crappy bike or do not know how to wrench.Never had a problem with this chain, whippermans last a bit longer
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mudcow007
a Downhiller
from UK, England Date Reviewed: April 13, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Weaknesses:
Chain snapped twice in less than a month
Bike Setup:
Kona Stinky 2007
Bottom Line:
this chain suxs, it has snapped on me twice in less than a month, normally on climbs resulting ion my knee coming into contact with the stem causing me to swear....alot
best avoided!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
VA mtbiker
a Weekend Warrior
from Arlington, VA Date Reviewed: March 22, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Cross County
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$33.00
Purchased At:
Local store
Strengths:
Power link
Weaknesses:
Didn't take long to break
Bike Setup:
2009 Fuel EX 9, the chain is part of the original setup on this bike.
Bottom Line:
I'm the kind of guy that waits for the weekend to get all the weeks stress out on my weekend trail ride. The chain broke of in the last 2 miles of my bi-monthly 51 mile trail, 25 miles of single track the rest is paved road. Usually I'd go on a 8-9 mile of single track trail with a completion of 11 miles paved road. If you do the math, I only took this bike on 12 rides since it got out of the box. In my opinion, the chain isn't a good product for the pure essence of mountain biking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mojavehanna
a Weekend Warrior
from Las Vegas, NV. USA Date Reviewed: January 27, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
PricePoint
Strengths:
Inexpensive, Powerlink Gold, works well for a cheap chain.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, Sedis
Bike Setup:
GT LTS
Bottom Line:
After reading all of the reviews I thought I made a big mistake in buying this chain. However, I then read other reviews and realized that virtually all chains of every make were getting equally crappy reviews... so the reviews must be taken with a grain of salt obviously.
I installed this chain when I replaced my entire drivetrain and it seems to work just fine. I ride in dry and dusty conditions and usually wipe down and re-lube my chain almost every ride just as routine maintenance.
Installation was non-eventful thanks to the Powerlink and it shifts and runs good and quiet so far. I have put over 50 miles on the chain before I had to wipe it down and re-lube it so the factory lube holds up well. Bottom line for an inexpensive chain you can't beat it. Maintain your chain, maintain your bike, and it will do what it is supposed to do as long as you dont abuse it i.e no lube, forced shifting, worn out rings/ cog, etc. I dont know what some of you do to constantly break your chains but I dont seem to have this problem so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pynis McDermott
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ, US Date Reviewed: January 21, 2009
Favorite Trail:
T100
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
The Power Link is a cool feature. Otherwise, strength was not a term I would include in this product's description.
Weaknesses:
I would say that the pins were the weakest portion of this chain system. I broke this chain a number of times out on the trail. Links did not hold up to hammering pressure, and entire chain became weak after minimal maintennance was performed.
Similar Products Used:
KTM X9, and SRAM PC-990 Cross Step
Bike Setup:
2008 Gary Fisher X-Caliber 29er HT, PC-970 Cassette, SRAM X-9 RD, SRAM X-7 FD, Shimano Hollowtech II Cranks
Bottom Line:
This was the worst chain I have ever owned. From the moment I first sized it, I had problems once I got on the trail. I would continuously have to fix it, which required that I include an extra power link and chain breaker in my saddle bag. I made extra effort to keep it well lubed and cleaned, but it seemed like I was just buying time until the next break in the chain. The problem was with weak pins that did not hold the links together, but it also seemed as if the links themselves were fairly weak as well. Difficult to maintain and keep together, easy to break apart. I bought the Cross Step, which is much stronger. Value, OK. Overall, Bad.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike_d_1583
a Cross Country Rider
from cincinnati, ohio Date Reviewed: November 23, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$28.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Light
Weaknesses:
Broke to many times to count. Snapped under low force 3 times on one ride.
Similar Products Used:
sram pc991, sram pc69, pc48
Bike Setup:
2004 Rockhopper. Race face crank rings
Bottom Line:
Don't really see why anybody would buy this peice of junk. It would be ok for just cruising around town at the same speed, but take it on the trails and its garaunteed to snap. The pc69 is a much stronger chain, but good luck finding one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
depp
a Cross Country Rider
from Methcondido Date Reviewed: October 4, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Elfin forrest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
I actually didn't have enough time to truly test this item, but it shiffted superbly the first ride.
Weaknesses:
It failed after the first ride. The chain gave me a grindy feeling.
Similar Products Used:
Sram pc 990 Shimano
Bike Setup:
Intense chris king USA stuff.
Bottom Line:
This chain has no life. It is absolutely not worth the money. Just because its made in Europe means nothing. 1 Flaming Turkey for rating and 1 Flaming Turkey for Value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pedalitup
a Cross Country Rider
from Oregon Date Reviewed: September 9, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
It's cheaper than the 991.
Weaknesses:
It's cheaper than the 991. It runs a lot louder.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, PC-99, PC-991
Bike Setup:
I used this chain on a hardtail with mix matched drivetrain. FSA rings, XT cassette, a real mutt!
Bottom Line:
I thought I would try this chain as its price was attractive. Unfortunately I guess I'm spoiled by the 991's I run on 5 other bikes. About a half hour into fresh chain lube this thing is noticeably rough as stated in other reviews. I looked today and its finally stretched enough (about the least I can measure)to replace with another 991. I wouldn't purchase this again unless I was broke down somewhere and had absolutely no other choice. The PC 991 seems like its from a completely different universe in the way it runs quietly at long intervals between lubrication.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mrm1
a Weekend Warrior
from Interlachen, FL USA Date Reviewed: August 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Santos
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$27.00
Purchased At:
Mr. Good Bike
Strengths:
none that I have found
Weaknesses:
Broke in 2 places on the third ride out.
Similar Products Used:
HG 71
Bike Setup:
Marin Rock Springs with LX Group
Bottom Line:
Hate to say it, but the chain is really a POS. This is my 2nd 971. The first one a year ago broke at the power lin 2nd time out. this time, I followed the suggests below and "seated" the chain with a gentle road ride prior to pounding it. Out of the box on the 2nd ride it had developed stiff links and was shifting like crap. I had check it for stiff links before install.
Today in the parking lot before the ride, I mashed the peddles and .... BOOM ... Snapped in 2 places right off. They seemed to have just pulled apart. The power link broke, AND it had pulled apart another link about 12 links up. Needless to say, the force of the chain ripping thru the Rear DR also bent my DR and possibly did damage to it as well. May have to replace the DR. With a new chain on it now (HG-71) the shop said they could not get it to adjust correctly now. Looked like the DR was bent.
Bottom Line: This chain DOES NOT INSPIRE CONFIDENCE. IMO stay away from this crap. Gave it a poor value for the Cost to run time ... 3 rides. And an overall 1 chili because IMO a chain should last more than 3 rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
aaron0000934
a Cross Country Rider
from Monkton, VT, USA Date Reviewed: July 15, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Ski Rack
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Broke with less than 15 minutes on it
Bottom Line:
I bought a brand new Specialized 29er hardtail this weekend with this chain installed. Within the first 15 minutes of my ride the chain broke while shifting up a hill. I was irate and wanted to smash the bike on a big tree. From what I've read this chain is a piece of crap that breaks often. Dont waste your money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Codad 4
a Weekend Warrior
from Virgina Date Reviewed: June 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
East Coast Mts
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
cheap and works (if you set it up right)
Weaknesses:
got some quirks to look out for. i broke my first a lot... my second i havent cause i've set it properly...
it only sucks cause opperator error.
Similar Products Used:
other 951 971, sram mostly
Bike Setup:
IH warrior trail, all air shocked, hyrdo and fatties
Bottom Line:
this chain will last IF you know how to milk it.
here's my two cents:
1 stiff links are common and WILL cause breaks... so the first two or three rides on the new chain you gotta check and correct. (standard stuff)
2 the power link will fail IF you dont seat with a nice soft ride first. if you get it dirty before it locks all the way it wont ever and it will fail.
3 i have been running it to tight (short) AND hard (up hill shifts and mean powered shifts) for about 15 months... and i have not broken it yet because of #1 and #2.
get a chain tool and try real hard to not put links back in because thats were you start to get stiff (and eventually broken) links. start stock, remove what links you need, put that power link in, set the pwer link and ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
oldsalty
a Cross Country Rider
from USA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$24.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
reliable,tooless removable master link
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
shimano,that german brand
Bike Setup:
on all three bikes
Bottom Line:
a good chain at good price, NEVER had one break,I use a park tool chain wear tool and replace my chain about 5/1 per cassette and about 8/1 chainrings. hey guys fact is you cannot force shifts or you will break the chain going uphill, gotta choose your gear before or wait for a small flat on the hill, I am able to shift going uphill on my finely tuned bike...takes some finess and I know when not to push it.I have a FSA mega exo crank set, LX cassette, XTR shift cables,xt rear derailleur,SRAM attack shifters on both my hardtail and Heckler and this set up is the best I have tried.
I don't have any problems with Sram Chains. Come on! It's a friggin chain! Is one chain really so different from an other? Don't piss on my leg and tell me it's raining!
Weaknesses:
It does not have a big set of hooters and a great attitude.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano
Bike Setup:
I own two IF bikes and a Surly, all steel.
Bottom Line:
I believe the negative posts here are by people who are not building their own bikes. Let's face the truth. The majority of americans are riding factory bikes that come with mix matched groups. I've seen some Cannondale full suspension bikes that just horrify me. Nobody wants to work on them cause they know they'll never work right. Being a professional, I know that if you're having a problem with your chain, your drive train has wear or youvbent it. It happens. Not everyone knows what not to do when riding a bike. But most likely, the problem is that you're riding on a bunch of mixed matched crap. Treat your bike to a new group/drive train,(rear derailleur, crank, cassette and chain). Make sure your rear hanger ain't bent. Get it tuned properly and then you might love your chain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: May 1, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Strengths:
Cheap, quick link is great
Weaknesses:
Strength (snapped)
Similar Products Used:
Shimano HG, Connex Wippermann
Bike Setup:
Kula Primo XTR/XT drivetrain
Bottom Line:
Just finished a new build and got a good deal on a PC971 with a SRAM cassette so gave it a try. I'd done about 150km and had no problems at all with the drivetrain, and then the chain snapped today on a climb. I read up on here before buying this chain so I knew I had to be careful with shifting under power and take it easy (which I did). I'm not a big guy and not putting out that much power so pretty disappointed the chain went so easily. Used an HG73 on the same trails all last year with no problems (and shifted a lot harder).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rod
a Cross Country Rider
from ky Date Reviewed: April 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
many
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
came w/ my used bike
Strengths:
It works and no breakage like the other users
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
other SRAM products
Bike Setup:
tires chain wheels etc.
Bottom Line:
If you don't shift under loads the chain won't break. I have used this chain for a while without any problems at all. I believe the peoplet that post here after they have a problem with a product. It also has a very cheap price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Warnick
a Cross Country Rider
from Etters, PA, USA Date Reviewed: April 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Ridge, York, PA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Deliveried with bike
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
It breaks
Similar Products Used:
SRAM PC-991
Bike Setup:
Specilized Enduro
Bottom Line:
I purchased a new Specilized Enduro with the PC-971 chain after about ten rides the chain broke once. I repaired it with a master link and two rides later it broken again in a different place. The chain can't handle any high load up hill shifts. I weight 215 pounds and ride difficult rocky areas. I just purchased a SRAM PC-991 for $50, I hope it works or I am going to a differnt brand.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich
a Cross Country Rider
from Port Washington, WI Date Reviewed: February 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Reliable and easy to remove (with the Powerlink)
Weaknesses:
None. It does what it is supposed to.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano chains
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic
Bottom Line:
I don't know what these guys who keep breaking this chain are doing. I've been using this chain for years and have never broken one. I replace it about twice a season. I clean it regularly. (Easy to remove with the Powerlink.) I keep my deraileurs tuned. I've broken chains in the past -- but they've all been Shimano. I switched to the SRAM, and haven't had any problems with it breaking or shifting. In fact, I've got this same chain on both my bikes. It works fine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Bristol, CT Date Reviewed: December 15, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
It turns the rear sprocket when it stays together.
Weaknesses:
It breaks often!
Similar Products Used:
Shimano hyperglide
Bike Setup:
06 Stumpjumper FSR
Bottom Line:
Came stock on my 06 Stumpy FSR. While it worked fine the first 100 miles or so, it quickly deteriorated. Shifting was never an issue, but the strength. I typically break this chain every 50 miles or so, and I do not beat on it. VERY frusterating. I've been riding several days a week for about 20 years now, and I think I've broken a chain once or twice before this piece of garbage. If you buy a bike that has this chain, do yourself a favor and spend the extra 25-30 bucks for a shimano.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
peeler hughes
a
from Philadelphia, PA, USA Date Reviewed: December 3, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Guy's bikes
Strengths:
a very smooth shifting chain, lightweight.
Bottom Line:
I am following up a review on my last chain, the PC 971. I have since switched to the SRAM hollowpin 991. I really loved it at first, until the chronic breakage. I shift under very little crankage. I occasionally meke an emergency shift under load, though I gain speed in gear, shift without applying alot of power and resume cranking hard. Believe me, I shift properly. I have never broken a shimano chain (always used dura ace) But since I switched to SRAM out of circumstance, not choice, I have experienced at least 7 broken chains. I installed them perfectly and rode them under pretty tough conditions, though not atypical. I have ordered a dura replacement and will never consider a SRAM chain ever again. Ive become an expert at chain repair. They suck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hugh
a Weekend Warrior
from Wyoming Date Reviewed: October 31, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Quiet at first, shifting was positive and smooth for first 20 miles of use.
Weaknesses:
Began skipping intermittently after 20 miles of riding. Stiff links showed up repeatedly. Snapped twice in two spots.
Similar Products Used:
stock chains on other bike.
Bike Setup:
2007 Enduro Sl comp completely stock. Chain came with the bike.
Bottom Line:
By the time I had accumulated 100 miles the chain was done. Snapped twice; I had to fix around 8 stiff links in this time period. The cheapo chain on my commuter doesn't have any issues and has around 2k miles. I would not recommend this chain to anyone unless I was racing them. For money. Or beer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Racer
from Niagara Falls Date Reviewed: October 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Rapid City Cycle
Strengths:
It did not break on me Shifting is fine Powerlink is easy to use good value
The reviews for this chain, in general suck. I was a long time user of the PC-59, but then it was discontinued. I was hesitant to get a 971, based on the reviews here. But, since i had always used sram, with few problems, i had to find out for myself. I purchased one, and put in on my bike. It worked. I rode it a lot, it wore, like all chains do, and then i replaced it, to get more life out of my cassette.
So, in conclusion, i had no problems with this chain. I think as long as something works, people don't think about it. But, when something breaks, people get pissed, and come write a review here, and this skews the ratings sometimes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
peeler hughes
a Racer
from Bensalem,PA,USA Date Reviewed: October 20, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Wissahickon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
Guy's
Strengths:
Smoothest shifting chain, glides like a fish over XT cassette.
Weaknesses:
suddenly broke. going down a hill, not pedaling.
Similar Products Used:
first SRAM chain
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur XT/Raceface drivetrain/Fox suspension/Crossmax tubeless...
Bottom Line:
This chain broke going down a hill after about 27 miles of racing. It raced 2 weeks prior, a long 31 miles over rocks and mud. The powerlink must have been the problem. I never broke a chain before. I hit a rock or root, who knows, I heard a loud metal on metal noise, chain gone. I switched to the SRAM 991 hollowpin. I can't believe how friggin' smooth it, versus the 971. So far I have about 10 miles on the new chain.
Bottom Bottom line: I don't trust the powerlink concept and I think it would be a good idea to carry a spare powerlink. If I break another, I will never use SRAM chains again, I will simply go to Dura Ace road chain, like everyone else and go back to never ever worrying about chain breakage.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Destroy
a Cross Country Rider
from Montréal Date Reviewed: October 1, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Bottom Line:
Broken my chain 2x in one week.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a
from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Date Reviewed: August 31, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
MEC
Strengths:
Light compared to my old chain. Shiny. Works great.
Weaknesses:
It seemed to have some skipping issues at first but it stopped now.
I have been biking pretty much every day for the past month and a half and have had no trouble with this chain. As far as I can tell its a great chain.
Bottom Line:
I think its a great chain for a decent price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert
a Weekend Warrior
from Berthoud, CO Date Reviewed: August 23, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
none
Weaknesses:
chain breaks by outer plates coming off of rivets
Bike Setup:
'06 Slayer 70
Bottom Line:
I'm a big guy (220lbs), and started breaking these chains last year. It goes when I'm powering up a hill or obstacle. Twice last week, finally wised up, and am trying the 991 cross step chain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Queens, NY Date Reviewed: July 17, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
E-Bay
Strengths:
Didn't last long enough to find one
Weaknesses:
Broke after a few rides, One of the links was locked- up
Similar Products Used:
KMC, pc-48
Bike Setup:
06 Stumpy Hardtail
Bottom Line:
JUdging by the other reviews here I am not the only one dissappointed with this chain, not worth its wieght in turds
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dirty
a Cross Country Rider
from boston Date Reviewed: July 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
what?
Weaknesses:
freakin breaks!
Similar Products Used:
pc 951
Bike Setup:
07 stumpy hardtail carbon sram xo xt cranks/front der.
Bottom Line:
three rides on brand new bike chain skipped all over the place then broke on my third ride. I have been riding a pc 951 with no issues on my old hard tail. Also I rode a epic expert demo that exhibited the same issues (I work part time at my local shop)and went back to the shop and it was a pc 971. CRAP CRAP CRAP!!don't buy it, unless you like bloody knees.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
WorldBTom
a Cross Country Rider
from NorCal Date Reviewed: May 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$22.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bikes
Strengths:
Easy to put on
Weaknesses:
Chain width may be an issue; either that, or the links are too stiff.
Similar Products Used:
Other SRAM and Shimano chains
Bike Setup:
SRAM drivetrain
Bottom Line:
After having gone 9 years without breaking a chain, I have now broken 3 in the last two months. After a particularly nasty, muddy race I replaced the entire drivetrain and was not able to pedal without the bike "ghost shifting". Basically the chain wants to ride up the cassette as soon as I put any tension on the chain (i.e. during any hard pedaling). I took it to multiple shops and nobody could figure out what was wrong. I kept riding anyways and would eventually break the chain during a hard push up a slope. Being an idiot I bought the same chain and subsequently broke it twice in one month. Yes I know how to tune a bike, but I absolutely perplexed at why this happening. It could be that the cassette teeth are too closely spaced (SRAM 9 speed), or SRAM made a bad batch of chains. I am switching over to a Shimano drivetrain and will see if that makes any difference.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert McMahon
a Weekend Warrior
from Saratoga, CA, USA Date Reviewed: April 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Table Mountain/Charcoal Road
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Performance bike
Strengths:
Master link makes it easier to remove the chain. A few dollars cheaper than shimano comparable chain.
Weaknesses:
Durability. I tested both the PC 971 and Shimano HG 93 in near identical riding conditions cleaning the chains after every major weekend ride. (Usually rides consist of around 30-40 miles and 5000-6000' of elevation.)
The Shimano HG 93 lasted 1200 miles. The SRAM PC 971 lasted 600 miles.
PS. No need for nickel plating when chains need to swapped every 3 months.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano HG 93.
Bike Setup:
2006 Giant XTC. Replaced Race Face bottom bracket (which failed) with Shimano XT. Replaced DT swiss rear hub (which failed) with Shimano XTRs. Needless to say I'm becoming a Shimano convert as these lesser components Giant selected fail in real world riding situations.
Bottom Line:
Not as good as shimano HG 93 - buy that instead.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
singletrackfever
a Weekend Warrior
from Philadelphia Date Reviewed: April 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
wiss or belmont
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
The PowerLink
Weaknesses:
everything but the PowerLink
Similar Products Used:
whatever came on the bike...
Bike Setup:
cannondale f700
Bottom Line:
I just recently swapped out my whole drivetrain and this was the chain that was recommended. However, it broke 3 times in less then a month. Need more explanation?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daniel
a Weekend Warrior
from Israel Date Reviewed: January 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Strengths:
Outer links made of Stainless Steel - looks great and after wash - look like new
Pins are Much more easy get in and out compare to shimano Power link - great patent. very easy to use.
Submitted by
Brandon T
a
from Toronto, Canada Date Reviewed: November 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
All of Ontario
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
LBS came w/bike
Strengths:
Powerlink and that's it...everything else is terrible about it.
Weaknesses:
It breaks so often it's ridiculous...I bought a new HT stumpy 06 and 2nd ride out the chain broke at 2 different locations...wasn't pedaling hard or anything...and just a momemnt ago...I was on my TRAINER...you know you're not pedaling super hard on a trainer because you're after consistency...so it broke on that...I'm feeling a bit jipped because i've had the chain for less than a month and it's already broken in 3 different areas.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano
Bike Setup:
stock specialized stumpy 06 HT
Bottom Line:
Do not buy this chain! It breaks too often in different areas. Spend your money elsewhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charles Davis
a Cross Country Rider
from Knoxville, TN Date Reviewed: October 23, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
None
Weaknesses:
Everything... Junk chain that broke going up a small hill on my second ride. I have been riding 20 years and this is only the second chain I have ever broken.
Based on my two rides the second one cut short by the failure of this product less than 2 miles in.... I would not suggest you buy this chain and if it comes on your new bike like it did mine carry a spare or replace it soon...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wenisman
a
from sydney Date Reviewed: October 7, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
shifts quick and clean
Weaknesses:
it will break very often
Similar Products Used:
too many to remember
Bike Setup:
intense 6.6... blinged out
Bottom Line:
i have used this chain for about 100 miles of off roading... i have broken this chain 5 times!! its now more powerlinks than chain.
previously swore by sram chains but this one is rubbish! with so many choices dont waste time or money on this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pitbiker
a Cross Country Rider
from Marikina, Philippines Date Reviewed: August 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Baguio/Rizal Trails
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
John Wilkie
Strengths:
So far so good, haven't experienced the chain breaking up. I never installed the power link.
Bottom Line:
It really doesn't matter which chain you use, shift properly and off course you have to properly maintain your bike. I wonder how you guys make use of your chains?? hahahaha
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc
a Cross Country Rider
from Brisbane in OZ Date Reviewed: August 15, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Nil
Weaknesses:
Very noisy with weak linkages.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano HG-53, HG-93
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper FSR
Bottom Line:
This chain came with my 06 Stumpjumper 120 and was ok for the first and second ride. After that it became very noisy and when I investigated the noise I found several links that were very loose. I have no doubt this chain would have fallen to bits in another 2 or 3 rides. Have now put on a HG-93 and bike is running smoothly again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick
a Cross Country Rider
from Cape Town, South Africa Date Reviewed: August 8, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Powerlink!
Weaknesses:
Noisy.
Similar Products Used:
SRAM Pc-59
Bottom Line:
I've used SRAM chains forever, and SACHS/SEDIS before they became SRAM. The PC-59 was a great chain, unfortunately they've changed the design and this one has become noisy, possibly because it seems to be wider in the middle of the link - I think its rubbing on things. I'm using mine with Shimano cassettes. I hate Shimano chains, but I guess I'm going to have to try them out again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a
from Washington, DC Date Reviewed: July 26, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Bottom Line:
I bought this chain two months ago with a new SRAM cassette. I've probably put around 150 miles or less on the chain and it's broken four times. The first time it broke was my second trip out. I took it back to the shop where they worked out a stiff link and put a new link back in and it has kept breaking since then. I've spent a lot of time cleaning the chain and working out any stiff links. It's now too short to ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington MI USA Date Reviewed: July 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The last one I rode
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
It's shiny
Weaknesses:
It breaks
Similar Products Used:
PC 69
Bike Setup:
'02 hardtail Fox 100x fork XT components Chris King hubs & headset Mavic rims
Bottom Line:
I've broken this chain (3) times, and had one stiff link issue in about 600 miles. I've had many PC69 chains without ANY trouble (I just ordered one up to replace this chain) There's too many chains on the market to waste time and $$ on this model....I hope SRAM fixes this problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
drfish
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston Canada Date Reviewed: June 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
any long ride is fine with the dr
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$28.00
Purchased At:
mec
Strengths:
love the power link
Weaknesses:
keep getting stiff links, on inspection it looks like the inner plates are getting rough and marred
Similar Products Used:
sram pc-59
Bike Setup:
tandem khs Race face rings with a xt cassette
Bottom Line:
For the tandem this chain is not a good thing it should be better but is not as good as the cheap pc-59 on this setup. Better than walking but its the first chain I have had problems with and I am old!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glenn
a Cross Country Rider
from Fontana, California USA Date Reviewed: May 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Works well, easy to use. PowerLink is nifty!
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Some other chain. Don't know.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR 2006 - stock parts - the chain came with the bike
Bottom Line:
Others have complained about it, but I think it works fine. I've put 400+ miles on the bike and chain. No problems. Admittedly, I'm not very experienced with bike maintenance. But, I think that makes this review stronger. In January I bought my first "real" mountain bike. And, I decided I should take care of it. So, I bought some Pedro's cleaning tools and cleaned the cassette and other drivetrain components. But, I realized in reading and observing the chain that to really get the chain clean I'd have to take it off. It seemed daunting. However, I saw I had the PowerLink so I gave it a go. I worked at it for a couple minutes until it came off in my hands. Cleaned the chain, back on the bike in under 30 minutes. That might seem like a long time but it was my first time doing it so...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jesse B
a Downhiller
from California Date Reviewed: May 3, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Bob's Cycle center
Bike Setup:
06 StumpJumper FSR Stock
Bottom Line:
I bought an 06 StumpJumper FSR. My brother bought an 05 Stumpjumper comp at the same exact time. His bike has an all Shimano drivetrain. My bike has the following.
CrankSet: Truvativ Stylo, 2-peice GXP S/A/A Chain: SRAM PC-971 with Power Link
I have had 2 chain break incidences in less then 6 months.
Id stay away from this product. I am going to stop by the bike shop I got the bike from and see if they can't swap out the chain for a high end Shimano chain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
freddie
a Cross Country Rider
from Harbor City, CA USA Date Reviewed: April 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$28.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Easy install with powerlink.
Weaknesses:
Doesn't shift nearly as well as Shimano HG 93.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano HG 93 and CN7701
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight, Truvativ stylo crankset, SRAM X9 shifters and rear derailleur, Shimano XT front derailleur and cassette.
Bottom Line:
Wanted to give this chain a try since it has the powerlink and has been redesigned for '06 (bulged outer plates make it look more like Shimano chains).
Doesn't shift nearly as cleanly as the high end Shimano chains, especially when downshifting on the chainrings. I've been told that SRAM chains need some break in time but I didn't want to wait: put a new HG 93 chain on right away and the difference was dramatic.
I've used Shimano chains forever and have never experienced the breakage issues that others have reported. Shimano chains are less expensive as well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
garret
a Cross Country Rider
from tres rivers, ma, usa Date Reviewed: April 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
sterage rock
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
COMPETITIVE EDGE ELM. THEY ROCK!!
Strengths:
shifting was nice..
Weaknesses:
got stiff link on first one.. replaced.. got stiff ling again..
it did it's job when it didn't get stiff link, can't get too excited about it, i rode each chain for 2 hours, and both got stiff link.. competitive edge ski and bike of east longmeadow upgraded me to a pc-99 hollow pin for no charge.. haven't experienced the problem since..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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