[Closed] How long a chain for 1x12?

If they are all the same price buy the longest.

I got an XT 12 speed chain with 126 links from CRC and removed about 6 links on a large Nukeproof Reactor.

They're not all the same price, hence my question! 😀
The Solaris has pretty long chainstays & if you had to remove ~6 links from a 126 then I'd be safest to get >120 links I guess. Oh well. Thanks. 🙂

There is a formula on the park site which will get you a chain length of you know chainstay length and both cogs. It's not 12 speed specific so I'd be tempted to add an extra pair. Don't forget, if it's a full suspension bike, it needs maximum chainstay length.

Park chain length

I needed to buy 126, my bike has 435 chainstays, but I run 34t chainring.
116, 126 138 are the only options I can find.

Thanks, I ordered the longer more expensive SLX chain already. I can maybe make something out of the extra left over. 😀

The Solaris has pretty lengthy 444mm chainstays, although I'm getting a 32T chainring. The options on Merlin are 118 links Deore, 120 SLX or 138 SLX. I chose the 138 SLX. Probably just as well. 🙂

I didn't know they did a 120 version, are they OEM, you might have gotten away with a 120.

From the numbers you've posted, 118 would have done it.

You'll need a bit longer chain for 12 speed, it's not the old rule of large-large +2 links.
IIRC it's +4 links for a hardtail or 5 for a full suspension. Check the Shimano dealers manual.

It’s not even as clear cut as that as it depends on what part of the link the two ends join whether you add 4 or 5 to enable you to rejoin

The old method for 51/32 with 444mm chain stays is 57", or 114 links. Even at 118, there's 2 extra pairs to play with as well as the quick link.

Keep in mind, that old system already gives an extra pair.