10 Bike Chains UK 2024 | KMC, Shimano and More

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.