Taya was showing off colorful new coatings for their 11-speed chains, which adds a bit of variety to the nickel-coated outer links, leaving the stainless steel inner links to contrast the color. Shown above and directly below, the blue Galaxy finish is the top level of their DHT (Diamond Hard Tech) chains that promise extended durability and quiet performance. And, now, 12-speed SRAM Eagle compatibility!
The12-speed versions bring all of the hollow pin, four-corner ramped shaping and other features as their 11s chains. This Ti-Black Gold uses a highly corrosion resistant coating that they’ve proven in industrial settings, but it’s environmentally friendly to produce! Check them out at TayaChain.com.
(Update: We originally mistakenly listed the above products as Connex, but they are from Taya and available now)
Connex goes green
The new CKS chain lube if biodegradable and comes with a thin dropper to make application easy and avoid overuse. When it comes time to wash it off, the formula won’t pollute the water supply, either. Now you just have to find an equally clean degreaser…
Check them out at ConnexChain.com.
2019 KMC 12-speed & eBike chains
KMC has also moved to a 12-speed design, which also gets their top-level “X” plate shaping for crisp, quiet shifts.
It’ll come in the gold version shown up top and with DLC-coated inner links and pins in your choice of blue, red, green or yellow. Outer links remain black to keep the color hit subdued, but visible.
We’re seeing more and more e-bike specific drivetrain products now that the market is becoming so big and brands are seeing the downsides of using people-powered parts for bikes with motor assistance. KMC is solving the problem by making their first sprockets, available for front and rear, along with a chain specifically for them.
What’s unique about them is the width…they use a wider tooth profile and chain, along with much larger diameter pins and rollers, to handle the increased torque. Check them out at KMCchain.com.
