I just installed a Connex link to join a KMC X9 chain and I’m noticing that whenever the link goes through the derailleur hanger, it causes it to move a bit, which causes rhythmic noise. Anyone using Connex noticing this? Is it normal?
Not sure if it’s related, but I use Connex links in my Shimano chains with no issues, but I have one YBN chain where it really doesn’t work: it gets stuck at a slight angle (so chain can’t get straight) and I not only heard the ticking but I felt it in the pedals. I had to switch to a KMC link for that specific chain.
Very interesting. I can definitely feel it if I pay attention.
Paging @Showroom7561@lemmy.ca ☝️
Sounds like this “problem”: https://youtu.be/yuqeogcwaIs
Make sure the direction of your link is correct.
I’ve got Connex links on three different bikes on both Wippermann and KMC chains, and I only hear noise when the link was installed upside-down.
Looking at the video, mine seems installed correctly:
That’s at the bottom side of the chain. Here’s his bottom side:
Is it happening across the entire cassette or only the higher gears (smaller cogs)?
Entire cassette.
I think I figured it out. At least a part of the problem. One side of the link is very stiff and while it does rotate while on the cassette and chainring, it does not rotate when going over the pulley wheels. This pushes on the derailleur cage as the link goes over the pulleys, causing the cage to move back and forth.
You have a waxed chain, right? Me, too, maybe it’s another factor causing the sticking between the surfaces (I replied to the top level post already). My YBN chain is black coated and thought that maybe the thickness is that much higher than a Shimano chain, that the plates press on the inner joint too much. But I see your KMC chain with a different coating. Interesting indeed.
Yup, waxed. I think it’s just wax collection in that particular joint. I’ll loosen it up and report.
Is the chain FRESHLY waxed (i.e. not had a chance to be broken in)? That usually happens for the first 10km(?) when I just stick it on without any prep work. Then the chain gets eerily quiet after that.
Freshly waxed chain (and those quick links) are pretty stiff, but loosen up quickly as you ride and shift between the entire cassette.
Yup. Newly waxed. The rest of the chain is articulating normally already. I’m pretty sure the link will loosen up too. My 11s chain seems to have broken-in faster. I guess the 9s chain has larger gaps and collects more wax which makes breaking it in slower. I’ll loosen the link up and report back.
Yeah, I think 9 speed chains in general are unique. The problem child of the cassette word. LOL
I’d be interested in an update.
Loosened the link a bit. Still stiff but the noise is a lot lower and there’s also less overall noise. Still clacks a bit but I’m pretty sure it’s gonna get to normal and there isn’t anything to worry about the drivetrain.
That’s encouraging. Are you planning to get multiple chains in rotation? If you do, it may be worth getting something other than the X9, just to compare. I find that Wippermann chains work really well, and hey, you get free connex links with them! LOL
