mybest
Accessories

Helping You Find the Best

Close
  1. TOP
  2. Sports & Outdoors
  3. Accessories
  4. 10 Bike Chains UK 2024 | KMC, Shimano and More
  • 10 Bike Chains UK 2024 | KMC, Shimano and More 1
  • 10 Bike Chains UK 2024 | KMC, Shimano and More 2
  • 10 Bike Chains UK 2024 | KMC, Shimano and More 3
  • 10 Bike Chains UK 2024 | KMC, Shimano and More 4
  • 10 Bike Chains UK 2024 | KMC, Shimano and More 5

10 Bike Chains UK 2024 | KMC, Shimano and More

If it's time for a new bike chain, finding the right one can be a difficult task. With so much variety on the market, it's hard to know where to begin. Luckily, this article will break down everything you need to know about how to choose a suitable chain for your bike!


We share our tips and advice on understanding speed and gear correlation, as well as the ideal weight and the importance of anti-rust coatings. Plus, we'll explain the significance of SRAM, Shimano and Campagnolo drive trains. If you're still not sure, simply take a look through our list of the 10 best bike chains in the UK currently available from Amazon, Decathlon and Halfords!

Last updated 25/03/2024
mybest Editing Team
Guide
mybest UK
mybest Editing Team

A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.

mybest Editing Team's Profile
…Continue reading

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Bike Chain in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Decide Between a Single or Multi-Speed Chain
  2. Check the Compatibility of SRAM, Shimano and Campagnolo Systems
  3. Consider a Lightweight Chain With an Anti-rust Coating
1

Choose a Single-Speed Chain for BMX Bikes or Match up the Chain’s Speed Rating to the Number of Gears on Your Bike

Choose a Single-Speed Chain for BMX Bikes or Match up the Chain’s Speed Rating to the Number of Gears on Your Bike

Most chains average around 116 links, but this number can vary based on manufacturer and chain length. The ideal chain will be long enough to be fitted around the largest front chain ring while still retaining ample room to shift into different gears without jamming. If it's too long, the chain could become slack when shifting down into lower gears.


The size you need will vary depending on the number of gears on your bike. BMX bikes will just require a single-speed chain, whereas bikes with multiple gears will need a longer chain in order to shift gear correctly. Luckily, all bike chains will come with the recommended speed stated in the product description, so you won't need to take any actual measurements, simply match up your bike's gears to the relevant chain. 


Keep track of speed and distance on a cycling computer.

2

Check That Your Chosen Chain Is Compatible With Your Bike’s Drive Train

Check That Your Chosen Chain Is Compatible With Your Bike’s Drive Train

The drive train is the gear system on the bike which holds the chain in place. The three drive train varieties are SRAM, Shimano and Campagnolo. You will be able to mix and match chains on most 3 - 10 gear bikes, but many longer chains need to be matched up correctly to avoid jams. 


If you're not sure what style of drive train your bike uses, you'll need to refer to the manufacturer's information pack to find a chain that is compatible with your system. If you're shopping for a single-speed chain for a BMX, you won't need to change gears, so drive train compatibility won't be an issue. 


Try cycling gloves to stay warm and reduce chafing.

3

Look for a Lightweight Chain Between 200 - 350 Grams With an Anti-Rust Coating for Easy Maintenance

Look for a Lightweight Chain Between 200 - 350 Grams With an Anti-Rust Coating for Easy Maintenance

The final factor to consider is the weight and finish of your chain. Lightweight bikes are easier to ride, so many cyclists prefer to shop for the lightest components possible. Most chains weigh between 200 - 350 grams. Anything over this may feel a little heavier, but it could have the added benefit of being more durable than a lighter design. 


The finish of your chain will also impact its functionality as well as its looks. Anti-rust coatings are great if you want a low-maintenance chain that won't require too much attention. A coloured chain is also a great way to add a pop of colour to your bike, and is a popular choice among BMX riders. 


Get the most out of your rides with a men's or women's cycling jersey.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Bike Chains in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Decathlon

3 to 8-Speed Bike Chain

Decathlon 3 to 8-Speed Bike Chain 1

£9.99

Low Mid

A Versatile Chain for 3 to 8-Speed Bikes With Any Style of Drive Train

2

Decathlon

9-Speed Bike Chain

Decathlon 9-Speed Bike Chain 1

£12.99

Mid

A 9-Speed Chain Designed by Market Leaders in Drive Train Repair

3

SRAM

11-Speed Bike Chain

SRAM 11-Speed Bike Chain 1

£14.99

Mid

Lightweight 11-Speed SRAM Chain That’s Also Compatible With Shimano

4

zonkie

Single-Speed Bicycle Chain

zonkie Single-Speed Bicycle Chain  1

£12.99

Mid

Add a Pop of Colour to Your BMX With an Orange, White or Yellow Chain

5

Clarks

7, 8-Speed Anti-Rust Chain

Clarks 7, 8-Speed Anti-Rust Chain 1

£7.93

Low

Anti-Rust 7 to 8-Speed Chain at a Bargain Price

6

KMC

12-Speed Chain

KMC 12-Speed Chain 1

£108.73

High

Premium Chain in 6 Styles for Any 12-Speed Drive Train

7

KMC

6, 7, 8-Speed Bike Chain

KMC 6, 7, 8-Speed Bike Chain 1

£9.59

Low Mid

Nickel-Plated Chain With Chain Connector for Easy Installation

8

Shimano

105 11-Speed Bike Chain

Shimano 105 11-Speed Bike Chain 1

£24.99

High Mid

Keep Weight Down and Improve Aerodynamics With This 250 g Chain

9

Shimano

10-Speed Chain

Shimano 10-Speed Chain 1

£17.99

High Mid

A Near-Silent Chain That Improves Efficiency While Cycling

10

Decathlon

BMX Bike Chain

Decathlon BMX Bike Chain 1

£8.99

Low Mid

A Classic Single-Speed Steel Chain for BMX Bikes

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Decathlon3 to 8-Speed Bike Chain

3 to 8-Speed Bike Chain 1
Source:decathlon.co.uk
Reference price
£9.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£9.99
Low Mid

A Versatile Chain for 3 to 8-Speed Bikes With Any Style of Drive Train

This 100% steel chain from Decathlon is designed for use with 3 to 8-speed bikes. The 350-gram total weight will help you keep your bike's overall weight low, remaining agile on the road. 


The chain is compatible with Shimano, Campagnolo and SRAM drive trains, making it one of the most versatile styles on the market. This makes it ideal if you're not sure what style of drive train you have.

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Decathlon9-Speed Bike Chain

Reference price
£12.99
Mid
Reference price
£12.99
Mid

A 9-Speed Chain Designed by Market Leaders in Drive Train Repair

If you need something with a slightly higher gear capacity, Decathlon is still one of the best options on the market. In fact, this 9-speed chain is compatible with Shimano, Campagnolo and SRAM drive trains. 


Designed in collaboration with KMC, this chain has been approved by the leading brand in drive train repair. The overall weight is just 300g, so there's no chance you'll be weighed down by this steel chain.

No.3

SRAM11-Speed Bike Chain

Reference price
£14.99
Mid

Lightweight 11-Speed SRAM Chain That’s Also Compatible With Shimano

If you're shopping for an 11-speed SRAM bike, you may want to follow industry advice and only pair like with like. Luckily, SRAM's 11-speed chain is of superior quality, and super lightweight at just 270 g. 


Assembly is easy, thanks to the quick-release chain links. Plus, you'll be covered by a 2-year warranty from the manufacturer in case of damage or deterioration. It's even compatible with Shimano drive trains!

No.4

zonkieSingle-Speed Bicycle Chain

Single-Speed Bicycle Chain  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£12.99
Mid
Reference price
£12.99
Mid

Add a Pop of Colour to Your BMX With an Orange, White or Yellow Chain

BMX riders often pride themselves on the style of their bike as well as its functionality. If that sounds like you, you might want to consider a coloured chain to really make it your own. 


The rust-resistant high-carbon steel is tough yet lightweight, and the quick-connect buckles make it easy to set up. Best of all, it comes in orange, white and yellow, so you can match it up perfectly to your bike and personal style.

No.5

Clarks7, 8-Speed Anti-Rust Chain

Reference price
£7.93
Low

Anti-Rust 7 to 8-Speed Chain at a Bargain Price

There are plenty of options on the market for 7 and 8-speed bikes, but this chain from Clarks is one of the best. It's super lightweight and boasts a longlife anti-rust coating that will make it much easier to maintain


It's compatible with any style of drive train, and it's quick to install no matter your setup. Even better, it's the cheapest chain on our list and one of the most affordable on the market, too. You really can't ask for much more than that!

No.6

KMC12-Speed Chain

Reference price
£108.73
High

Premium Chain in 6 Styles for Any 12-Speed Drive Train

Considering the size of this chain, the low 272 g weight is very impressive. It's suitable for 12-speed Campagnolo, Shimano and SRAM drive trains, and comes with a subtle pop of colour on each chain link. There's a choice of 6 colours, including plain black for a more minimalist look. 


That said, it is the most expensive chain on our list. Of course, if you're shopping for the absolute best, KMC is commonly recognised as the leading industry brand. Their patented coating boasts unrivalled durability, with a low-maintenance, mud-shedding design. 

No.7

KMC6, 7, 8-Speed Bike Chain

Reference price
£9.59
Low Mid

Nickel-Plated Chain With Chain Connector for Easy Installation

KMC's 6 to 8-speed chain is nickel-plated for strength and durability. Each purchase comes with KMC's own brand chain connector to make assembly simple. Plus, they've eliminated compatibility issues by making this model suitable for any drive train. 


Unfortunately, some customers have complained that this chain can be prone to rust. So it may not be the best choice if you're hoping for a low-maintenance option. However, if you're looking for a bargain that's still of great quality, this one is sure to deliver.

No.8

Shimano105 11-Speed Bike Chain

Reference price
£24.99
High Mid

Keep Weight Down and Improve Aerodynamics With This 250 g Chain

If weight is an important factor, this chain will likely catch your eye. At just 250 g, it's the lightest chain on our list and is compatible with both Shimano and SRAM 11-speed drive trains. 


Although SRAM compatibility is a great addition to this Shimano brand chain, it won't be suitable for use with Campagnolo hardware. If you're not sure what style of drive train you have, it may be best to choose a universally compatible chain, just in case.

No.9

Shimano10-Speed Chain

10-Speed Chain 1
Source:halfords.com
Reference price
£17.99
High Mid

A Near-Silent Chain That Improves Efficiency While Cycling

This 10-speed chain features an inner plate which improves contact with gears. As a result, you'll get smoother gear shifts, more efficient pedalling and almost silent motion. It also features a corrosion-resistant finish, with open links for easier mud-shedding.


As a Shimano brand product, it's not hugely surprising that this chain is only compatible with Shimano drive trains. Even so, it's a little disappointing that it can't be paired with any other styles. 

No.10

DecathlonBMX Bike Chain

Reference price
£8.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£8.99
Low Mid

A Classic Single-Speed Steel Chain for BMX Bikes

Decathlon's 100% steel BMX chain has been designed alongside industry professionals at KMC. It may not be the most exciting, but we think the classic silver finish is perfect if you want to keep a traditional look for your bike. 


The only downside is that it weighs 410 g, making it the heaviest chain on our list. However, as BMX bikes are typically much smaller than mountain or road bikes, a little added weight may not be much of an issue.

Top 5 Bike Chains

No. 1: Decathlon3 to 8-Speed Bike Chain

No. 2: Decathlon9-Speed Bike Chain

No. 3: SRAM11-Speed Bike Chain

No. 4: zonkieSingle-Speed Bicycle Chain

No. 5: Clarks7, 8-Speed Anti-Rust Chain

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
  1. TOP
  2. Sports & Outdoors
  3. Accessories
  4. 10 Bike Chains UK 2024 | KMC, Shimano and More

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.