[monkies]

I've usually swapped chains every few months to increase drivetrain life, but with my new 12 sp Eagle setup, I read that the chain's powerlock is for one time use. Is this true???

It may explain why unlike my 9 and 10 sp setups, this powerlock does not come apart with just my fingers (in fact, it hasn't come off the bike since I got it).

 

[noapathy]

Dunno, but SRAM powerlock 10spd is supposed to be one use as well, so no surprise. That's part of why I run KMC.

 

[92gli]

Buy quick link pliers to take it apart. When you re-install it, if you still can't take it apart with your fingers it's fine.

 

[jestep]

They're technically 1 time use and can be really hard to get off, like nearly impossible in some cases. I also have gone to KMC on all of my 10 and 11 speed bikes.

 

[mtnbikej]

I dunno...,.KMC says the 10 & 11 spd Quick Links are reusable....but I seem to break a lot of them. They tend to be the weak link in the chain.

 

[alexbn921]

I reuse powerlinks for the life of the chain unless they get damaged. Never had an issue.

 

[Andy13]

Count me with the "reuse powerlinks for the life of the chain" group. Doesn't matter what speed. I have done it with eagle chains to shorten and have no worries. You "can" remove powerlinks without a special tool but I would recommend picking up a Park or Pedros, etc. tool made to do it easily.

 

[Cleared2land]

All SRAM links are stated as a "One Time Use Only'.

I have been re-using them for many years with zero issues. I'm sure it's a liability issue.

As a side note, and a cool backcountry trick...if you don't have link removal pliers, you can always use shoe laces or a stout string to remove the link.