Nine-speed drivetrains refuse to disappear. They remain on commuter bikes, touring setups, and older road machines that have thousands of miles left in them. The SRAM PC-971 handles chain replacement duty across all of them, built with chrome hardened pins and solid pin construction that prioritizes durability over weight savings.

The 114-link length covers most standard double and triple chainring configurations without needing to size down. If your drivetrain runs a compact double or has shorter chainstays, you might remove a few links during installation. The included PowerLink connector makes that process straightforward—no chain tool required for the final connection, and the same link works for future removal when deep cleaning or swapping between bikes.

Chain wear happens gradually, which makes it easy to ignore until shifting quality deteriorates or the cassette starts wearing prematurely. Running a chain past its service life accelerates wear on the more expensive drivetrain components it contacts with every pedal stroke. The general replacement interval sits around 2,000 to 3,000 miles depending on conditions, riding style, and maintenance habits. Wet weather, gritty roads, and infrequent cleaning push that number lower.... Read More