Customer Reviews

SRAM PC 890 P-Link Bicycle Chain (8-Speed, Silver)

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Probably the smoothest running road chain I have ever used and I am a former professional cyclist. Lightweight, smooth shifting, and strong. In word: like butter! (but less fattening)

This is a good chain, my second, but I have yet to figure out how to use the master link so I emailed several bike mechanics who say use pliers across the links from fixed pin to fixed pin to open the link(s). I also saw a Youtube video and firmly believe the chain link in the video was never locked; good idea but needs work. However, clean it is a very quiet and easy shifting chain. I bought the more expensive chain but would buy the mid priced next time.

Not much to say... smooth shifting and durable. Best of all, it has a quick link to make thorough chain cleaning a snap.

I purchased this chain for my single speed 29er that I also use for winter commuting. The addition of nickel plating should prove valuable for corrosion resistance next winter. It was easy to install.

The chain came coated with a super sticky slime. On advice from others I soaked it in some citric de-greaser to remove this stuff and then greased with my own wet chainlube. After shortening by a few links to match my drivetrain I mounted it on the bike. The power-link snapped into place easily. It's a devilishly clever little bit of engineering -- very simple, very effective. The first 10 or so miles were a bit jerky with the chain jumping a tooth or two on the drivetrain under acceleration, but after it warmed up, flexed, and the chainlube penetrated its way in it ran smooth and creamy. Now with several hundred miles, I have no regrets.

This is also a nice looking chain, sure to dress up the grungiest of bikes. The chain is on an old Trek 1000, circa 1991. It works fine with the original Suntour Accushift drivetrain. It's easy to unsnap the power-link and drop the whole thing into solvent for cleaning -- way easier and far more effective than cleaning on the bike with brushes or those plastic contraptions. If you have trouble with the power-link it's because you aren't doing it right. You just need your thumb and forefinger to press inwards while pushing the links together. Practice a little before you put it on the bike.

Also note that SRAM makes other chains for 7-8 speeds, the 850 and 870, that do the same thing for a lesser price. I have the 870 on my mountain bike and it works fine but doesn't look quite as cool.

I use a 90s-era mountainbike for commuting and other non-sporty cycling. Winter riding frequently results in the chain getting saturated with saltwater, and I don't always have a chance and frequently don't have the inclination to clean, dry and lube between messy rides. The previous chain, a SRAM PC830, took about a year to become extremely rusty. I oiled it and kept riding, enjoying the extra bit of homeliness it added to an already ugly bike. It finally rusted so badly that links began freezing up, causing the drivetrain to skip.

I decided to try a new tact, and got the most expensive 8-speed chain, the PC-890, rather than the cheapest one. It starts off a bright nickel tone, which is a little flashy. But I've treated it (or mistreated it) identically to the PC830, and it's rust-free nearly a year later.

Very good quality product. Made lots of difference after I replaced my old chain. I also installed new SRAM PG850 11-32T 8 Speed Cassette at the same time.

500 miles old, the chain snapped in half, not from wear, but on one of the outside links... Worked great while it lasted, but this chain is just too weak.