The KMC X12 uses nickel coated links and is joined with KMC's Missing Link connector link. This greatly simplifies the installation process and also allows the user to remove the chain for cleaning and bike maintenance. The inner and outer plates are chamfering to allow the chain to move from gear to gear precisely. The Double X Bridge shape outer plate helps to provide lightning fast shifts by improving stiffness of each link. Bushing-less construction helps give the chain what KMC refers to as noiseless function.

The KMC Chain Industrial Company's sole focus is to create the world's best chains by amalgamating proven construction methods with quality raw materials. They have a manufacturing campus in Tainan County, Taiwan where all product is produced in-house to control quality. Since the mid-80s KMC has had a partnership with Shimano. Chain making is a complex process and requires specialty facilities. Shimano chose KMC because they're simply one of the world's best bicycle chains producers.