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Always had a sram powerlink chain but have just bought a complete XT groupset and know that kmc use a similar link just need to know which is compatible with the new XT 10 speed cranks and cassette.
A 10 speed one.
Not sure of the experiences of others but the KMC equivalent of the powerlink needs pliers to fit and remove on both my X10SLs, simply too stiff to split or join by hand, just the most obvious observation between them and SRAM. Works perfectly with Shimano IME.
I've got the gold 9 speed SL think its pretty good. Certainly better than the chains I've used previously. And the nice thing about the gold coating is that the grit doesn't seem to stick to it so is easy to clean. On the powerlink connector I can do mine by hand no need for the tool (although that may be a difference between 9 and 10 speed) .
The Sram 10 speed link is called a "powerlock" NOT "powerlink". It's not designed to be taken apart, which is why it's stiff to assemble...
That's weird - because the 2 SRAM 10spd chains I bought both needed pliers to install and split the split link whereas the KMC 10spd chain I replaced them with didn't...
Sorry, Fudge - are you after a chain or just a link? On eBay there are several Taiwan sites that sell KMC chains at very good prices.
As for links, any 10 SPD will do. The SRAM ones are supposed to be "one use" but several posters on here have reused them. KMC or YBN quick links (10spd) work well and are much cheaper.
I use the KMC tool to split my SL but it goes back together pretty easily without the other, line 'em up and snap into place.
Other option is KMC 10 speed chain link with the XT chain....has been working fine for me and it's a tool free hands only on/off ( just have to get the knack of a bit of a mid link squeeze to loosen it).
[url= http://www.wiggle.co.uk/kmc-10-speed-chain-links/ ]kmc 10 speed chain link[/url]