Shimano Ultegra/XT CN-HG701 11-Speed Chain W/Quick Liink

Been riding in Utah's dusty conditions and noticed my old chain was starting to stretch after about 1500 miles - time for a replacement. This Shimano chain's been on for a couple hundred miles now and it's definitely quieter than my worn-out one. Shifts are smooth and consistent. One heads up - this uses Shimano's specific quick link system, not the old pin style. You'll need special pliers to install or remove it. The SIL-TEC coating seems to be helping with our local dust issues, but it pairs best with a dry lube like White Lighting or Finish Line. For now, it's doing exactly what it should - running quiet and smooth on my 11-speed setup. I've always been a Shimano fan boy.

UPDATE (03-2021): I have about 2,500K IRL miles on this new chain now and there is no sign of stretch and my old-school no-master-link connection has held up perfectly. ORIGINAL REVIEW: I've been racing since the late 70's, built frames in the 80's, was a bike shop manager and mechanic into the mid 80s, and was a support mechanic and motorcycle official for the Coors Classic "back in the day". I've replaced hundreds of chains, but until recently always with a chin break tool and fixed pins. I've never had a problem doing that, perhaps because I'd developed a technique, with fixed pins. "Master Links" were for 3-speed chains and commuter bikes. Now they're on racing chains? That may be fine for people who don't know how to properly replace a chain with a chain tool, but unless you have the proper tool (which I do happen to have), these master link chains can be hard to replace - completely contrary to the point of moving to master links in the first place. In any case, there is nothing wrong with the chain or the ML - I just don't like the ML. I did not use the ML in this case, I just used a chain break to remove the extra length of chain to fit my bike and connected the ends with the chain break. I suppose time will tell if reusing existing pins is a bad idea, but I've got about 300 miles on the new chain in the past 3 weeks and so far so go. The chain replaced the stock non-Shimano chain on a 2018 Cannondale SuperSix Evo training bike that was stretched longer than I've ever seen a chain stretch in about 3K miles. I've heard these Ultegra's tend to stretch easily too, so we'll see on that count as well. In the end the chain is what it is - Shimano Ultegra - and who am I to question Shimano's engineering expertise when it comes to chain linkages. However, I won't be using MLs any time soon unless I learn that reusing pins results in premature failure. But I do have a Park ML tool, so I can go either way. I also plan to continue using Ultegra for my training bikes and Dura Ace chains on racing bikes as I've never ridden on better chains.

I recently upgraded to the Shimano Ultegra/XT CN-HG701 11-Speed Chain, and I couldn’t be happier. Here’s why: Smooth Shifting: The chain glides effortlessly between gears, ensuring seamless transitions during my rides. Whether I’m climbing steep hills or sprinting on the flats, the shifting is precise and reliable. Durability: This chain is built to last. Even after countless miles, it shows minimal signs of wear. I trust it to withstand the rigors of both road and off-road cycling. Quick Link Convenience: The included quick link made installation a breeze. No fussing with pins or special tools—just snap it into place, and you’re ready to roll. Kudos to Shimano for this thoughtful design. Abundant Links: Unlike some other chains, the CN-HG701 has plenty of links. I didn’t have to worry about sizing; there was more than enough to fit my drivetrain perfectly. Shimano Compatibility: As a Shimano enthusiast, I appreciate that this chain pairs flawlessly with Shimano components. The directional design ensures optimal performance, especially when combined with Shimano gears. In summary, the Shimano Ultegra/XT CN-HG701 11-Speed Chain delivers exceptional value. It’s a worthy investment for any cyclist seeking reliability, smoothness, and longevity. Don’t hesitate—grab one for your bike and experience the difference!

I have bought this chain twice through the years. The first one was fine, and replaced in due time when it was worn out. Second time, I purchased in July 2023 and installed in August 2023. After 4 months and not so many miles, it snapped, December 2023.... but not only did it break (one link snapped in half, located one link over from the quick link- see picture), but upon further inspection I noticed what you see in the picture...about half way down the chain, there is a crack in the actual metal of a different link. Very disappointing. Is this a real Shimano chain? I am starting to wonder. I will do some research. I have never seen a chain break like this, with an additional crack, in this manner, and after a short amount of time/miles pedaled. I will do some research and hopefully update. Be sure you do the same before purchasing. Update: This was indeed a counterfeit Shimano chain. The pattern of links does not match an authentic Shimano chain, as researched online. To the eye, this chain includes exact letters, numbers and stamping as a Shimano chain, but the edges of the links are not the same. Very sneaky. Buyer beware. I had nothing but problems with this chain for an entire season. Mystery solved. There are over 11 other cracks in other links on this chain, just waiting to break. The chain checker shows no wear, yet close inspection tells otherwise. Be careful what you purchase. I now buy my Shimano 11-speed chain replacements at my LSB.

How to spot the real deal. The chain I received was real, but that doesn't mean counterfeits aren't out there. Here is how to tell if it's real or not. A real Shimano chain has 4 equal cuts on each corner of the front side of the links (the side with the text) and 2 short and 2 long cuts on alternating sides on the back of the links. I've circled the cuts in the attached photos for reference; if your chain has the same cut marks on the front and back, it's a real Shimano chain.

Genuine Chain: it tickes all the boxes for a genuine packaging, runs smoothly, and shifts quickly. If I dont write again in a year, the chains will last as long as it should.

This works for any Shimano Ultegra group set. I have the DI-10, and just replaced the cassette and had the new chain installed. For road bike enthusiasts like myself who easily do 2000 miles a year, these parts wear out, and you have to replace them periodically to keep your bike running well: chains once a year, cassettes every three years. I do recommend authentic Shimano parts.

The market is *flooded* with counterfeit Shimano chains, including being sold online by otherwise "legit" sellers & bike shops. I'm a serious road cyclist & train with racers, and most experienced, expert cyclists buy 90% of their parts & equipment online from Aliexpress or Amazon. The ONE thing everyone knows *never* to buy online are Shimano chains, because most of them are fake. So I was very happy to discover this on Amazon for about $10 bucks less than in a shop, and upon inspection it is 100% legit. Pro-tip: Watch some youTube vids about the subject. The problem is rampant, and fake chains LOOK very, very similar to the real ones, but they are weak, have substandard performance, and can be dangerous. Learn what to look for and how to identify counterfeits.