The SRAM PC-971 is the workhorse 9-speed replacement chain for riders keeping an older drivetrain running rather than upgrading the whole bike. It's a match for Shimano XT, LX/SLX, or SRAM X.9 level drivetrains, and it will also work with any 9 speed setup that might be higher or lower-end . If your current chain has stretched past the 0.75% wear mark and you're on a 9-speed cassette, this is the direct replacement without stepping up to the nickel-plated inner plates of the PC-991.

Compared to the PC-991, the PC-971 has bulged outer plates and chrome-hardened pins, and it sits a notch down since it lacks the nickel plating on the inner plates and instead has raw steel — so it's a bit more susceptible to the elements, but it doesn't sacrifice performance . The outer plates are nickel plated for corrosion resistance , which handles the exposed side of the chain where rain and grit hit hardest. That's where the price difference between the 971 and 991 shows up — same shift performance, less cosmetic corrosion protection on the inner surfaces.

The chain ships with a gold-colored PowerLink connector to make assembly and disassembly easy , which matters if you clean your chain off the bike or rotate chains to extend cassette life. No chain tool needed to break the link — squeeze the plates and slide the PowerLink apart. Chain width measures 6.8mm and the chain ships at 114 links , which is enough for most road and mountain setups with room to size down to your specific chainstay length and largest cog combination.... Read More