9 speed chain

[rich p]

Can I use one on an 8 speed? It's just that I have one already and thought I'd save a few bob if poss. All Shimano if it makes a difference

 

[rich p]

Someone must know

 

[mondobongo]

Yes you can, might wear faster and your shifting may be a little slower.

From Sheldon:
Chain As you go to more sprockets on the cassette, you need a narrower chain. However, using a narrower chain with an older system rarely presents any problem. Thus, you can use a "9-speed" chain with a 7-speed or 8-speed system, or a "10-speed" chain with a 9-speed system. Since the chains designated for more gears are usually more expensive and don't last as long, this is not the ideal approach, but it's perfectly workable.

 

[rich p]

Thanks

 

[02GF74]

hmmm, so the sprocket aren't narrower as the chain becomes narrower?

 

[GilesM]

Can I use one on an 8 speed? It's just that I have one already and thought I'd save a few bob if poss. All Shimano if it makes a difference

It should work, however I think that the front mech may not be as smooth when changing, the 8 speed front mech will be slightly wider cage than the one used on a 9 speed, therefore the mech will have to move further before it actually contacts the chain, I hope this makes sense. If you have the chain sitting in a box just try it, if it doesn't work you'll know pretty quickly.

Giles

 

[Smokin Joe]

It should work, however I think that the front mech may not be as smooth when changing, the 8 speed front mech will be slightly wider cage than the one used on a 9 speed, therefore the mech will have to move further before it actually contacts the chain, I hope this makes sense. If you have the chain sitting in a box just try it, if it doesn't work you'll know pretty quickly.

Giles

A ten speed chain works perfectly with a front mech from an old eight speed system, and the extra wear rate often claimed for narrower chains does not happen in practice.