SEVEN DAY CYCLIST
CYCLING, BUT NOT USUALLY RACING

Materials/Construction

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The Elements come in two forms. Our single speed 1/8th and 7,8, 9spd 3/32 derailleur options. The key ingredient here, is their thick silvery galvanised coating. Aside from the obvious corrosion inhibiting prowess, lube also adheres better to the surface texture. Theoretically, you’re using less lubricant and there’s less transfer when tackling roadside mechanicals/ shouldering the bike.

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Length is reasonably generous. Ample for a 77.8 inch gear (15 tooth sprocket, 44 tooth ring, 700x32 tyres) and 41cm chainstays. I cut ours down by four and dispensed with the tool-free “magic” type.

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These are fine, with a freewheel/hub gear transmission. Fixed demands a more traditional union. Now, unlike standard chains, it comes completely dry. Perfect for mess free ... ahem ..... indoor fitment.  Talking of which, tensile strength is cited as a reasonable, and more than adequate for its target audience, 802kg. Putting this into context, a heavier duty model for big gear pushers and track riders, such as KMC Z1 X Inox, is around 1050 Kg.

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Being December, I fed our sample, chainsaw bar oil (this was part of our (Cheap as Chips Chain Lubes Challenge) which has a very similar consistency and flow rate to Weldtite TF2 Extreme Wet. Drizzled from a 125ml dropper bottle, the chain's gravelly patter, was quickly replaced by a more refined, swoosh. The side-plates required minimal wiping, too. 

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Durability

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Despite the tenacious wet lube, and a high quality, straight-cut titanium track sprocket, I wasn’t surprised that the Elements was more audible than the KMC Z1 X, which has been my go-to fixed/track chain, for several years now. The difference in tensile strength, was also quite apparent, during the first few outings. This resulted in a more gentle approach, to acceleration, climbing and transmission braking, until I gained full confidence in it.

 

During this formative 100 miles, things became noticeably quieter, almost meditative. I had to ease a stiff link, and adjust the chain tension twice, during this period. Minimal transfer of lube to hands/clothing.