There are a few key differences between 8 and 9 speed chains. First, 9 speed chains have narrower inner and outer plates. This makes them more compatible with the narrower spacing found on 9 speed drivetrains.
Second, 9 speed chains use a different pin length and profile. This helps to further improve shifting performance on 9 speed drivetrains. Finally, 9 speed chains tend to be more expensive than 8 speed chains.
This is due to the higher quality materials and construction required to meet the stricter tolerances of 9 speed drivetrains.
Are 8 and 9 speed chains the same? This is a question that we get asked a lot, and the answer is yes, they are the same. The chain width is the same, and the link pitch is the same.
The only difference is that 9 speed chains have an extra link. This extra link is used to make the chain compatible with 9 speed drivetrains. So, if you have a 9 speed drivetrain, you will need a 9 speed chain.
difference between bicycle chain speed, 8 speed, 9 speed, 10 speed, 11 speed
Will 8 speed chain work with 9 speed cassette?
The quick answer is no, an 8 speed chain will not work with a 9 speed cassette. Here’s a more detailed explanation.
8 speed chains are 1.125 inches wide, while 9 speed chains are 1 inch wide.
This may not seem like a big difference, but it is enough to keep the 8 speed chain from fitting into the 9 speed cassette. The 8 speed chain is also not compatible with 9 speed shifters.
If you’re looking to upgrade from an 8 speed drivetrain to a 9 speed, you’ll need to replace both the chain and the cassette.
This can be a bit pricey, but it’s the only way to get the increased performance that 9 speed offers.
Is 8 speed chain the same as 9 speed?
There is a common misconception that 8 speed chains are compatible with 9 speed drivetrains. This is not the case. 8 speed chains are narrower than 9 speed chains and will not fit properly on a 9 speed cassette.
9 speed chains are also not compatible with 8 speed drivetrains.
Are 9 speed chains all the same?
9 speed chains are not all the same. Some are designed for road bikes, while others are designed for mountain bikes. The width of the chain also varies, with some being narrower than others.
The number of teeth on the sprockets also varies, with some having more teeth than others.
Can I use a 7 speed chain on a 9 speed cassette?
There are a few things to consider when determining whether or not you can use a 7 speed chain on a 9 speed cassette. The first is the width of the chain. 7 speed chains are generally narrower than 9 speed chains, so they may not fit properly on the cassette.
Additionally, the teeth on 7 speed chains are spaced further apart than on 9 speed chains, so they may not engage properly with the cogs on the cassette. Finally, 9 speed cassettes typically have a larger cog than 7 speed cassettes, so the chain may not be long enough to reach it. If you have a 7 speed chain and want to use it on a 9 speed cassette, you may need to modify it to fit or replace it with a 9 speed chain.
Credit: bike.bikegremlin.com
Shimano chain compatibility chart
If you’re a cyclist, then you know that having a reliable chain is essential to having a good ride. But with so many different types and brands of chains on the market, it can be hard to know which one is the right fit for your bike. That’s where a Shimano chain compatibility chart comes in handy.
With a Shimano compatibility chart, you can quickly and easily see which chain is compatible with your Shimano-equipped bike. Simply find your bike’s model number in the left-hand column, then match it up with the corresponding chain in the right-hand column.
For example, if you have a Shimano Deore XT M8000 bike, then you’ll need a Shimano CN-HG601 chain.
Or if you have a Shimano Dura-Ace R9100 bike, then you’ll need a Shimano CN-HG901 chain.
Conclusion
The quick answer is that an 8-speed chain will work with a 9-speed drivetrain and vice versa. The difference is that an 8-speed chain is slightly narrower than a 9-speed chain. As a result, an 8-speed chain may feel a bit “tighter” on a 9-speed cassette, but it will still work.
Similarly, a 9-speed chain may feel a bit “loose” on an 8-speed cassette, but it will still work.
