I know the official answer from Shimano is you can only use their quick link, but practically is it okay to use SRAM or KMC links?
Specifically, I have the Shimano HG-40 chain.
asked Feb 28 '12 at 18:24
In general a SRAM or KMC link for an 8 or 9 speed chain will work fine with a similar Shimano 8 or 9 speed chain.
If you are dealing with a 10 speed chain I believe you will run into a compatibility problem as one brand is sightly narrower than the other (I can't remember which way and I only deal personally with 9 speed or lower).
I've used a SRAM power link on a Shimano HG-40 for a while now with no problems.
-
-
Several hundred km in mountain conditions on a Shimano XTR, joined by a KMC 10-sp link. No problem so far. – Vorac Nov 5 '14 at 14:05
-
KMC's faq at kmcchain.us/faqs says the following: IS KMC MISSING LINK COMPATIBLE WITH SHIMANO CHAIN, SRAM CHAIN, OR CAMPY CHAIN? Yes, KMC constructs Missing Link I, II, 9, and 10 for 7.3mm, 7.1mm, 6.6mm, and 5.9mm respectively; all Missing Links are compatible with Sram, Shimano, and Campy equivalent chains. – Benzo Nov 19 '15 at 20:14
