Chain Links: My quick take.

I was recently asked by @justinbrennan on @twitter what my opinions are regarding the different designs or techniques for connecting chains that are currently out there and if I had any preferences.  Well, as you can imagine, I do have some opinions as well as preferences. 

I think that it's best to first preface this with saying that no matter how good the design is, if you do not do the installation properly, you are more than likely going to experience some sort of failure, so do it right.

Let's break this down into brands...

Shimano HG & IG Pins:

I have no issues with this design.  It works for the useful life of the chain... unlike their Quick-Link design issue that I noted here.  I like this simple, low cost design.

Campagnolo C-10 HD Link:

Besides the fact that it's the most costly (approx $30US for just the Link Kit) and the big $'s for the Campy chain tool, it's also the most time/labor intensive design... Hey, you have to pay to play especially when it comes to Campy....  I think that because of this, folks are more likely to do a half-ass chain cleaning job with the chain on the bike instead of the more thorough approach associated with removing the chain.  I'm ok with this, but I have a hard time looking folks in the eye and telling them the cost...

Campagnolo 11s:

See above but more $$$.

SRAM Powerlink:

Simple, cost effective, and it just plain works.  I like it.

SRAM PowerLock:

This connector link for SRAM 10spd chain differs, besides dimensions, from the 9spd Powerlink in the fact that it is not reusable.  I don't have a problem with that.  It works and I like the design.

Wippermann ConneX 9&10:

I just can't get excited enough about this product to use it or even recommend it...as long as there are other options out there.

KMC Missing Link:

See previous comment.

So there you have it.  I hope that this helps, and remember, this is my opinion that is based on first-hand experience.  Thanks for checking in.  -John