KMC 10sp Quick Link Unbelievably Tight

[migrantwing]

I would not take it the wrong way, people were just trying to help you as you, as the nature of your post suggests you are not an expert, for example oiling a brand new chain and removing the chain just to give it a wipe over.

No, I'm not an expert, whatever constitues an 'expert' in bike chains, but besides that, some people use a chain straight out of the box, some clean off the factory lube, some use WD40, some use wax and some use lube. It's a choice, just like I chose to take out my quick link. I also didn't take things the wrong way, I was simply stating and reiterating my choice to do what I want with what I own, just like everyone else.

For clarification, the reason I took the quick link out is so that, out on the road, I always like to know that the quick link can be removed easily if required, due to breakage, problems etc. If I can't remove the quick link when out on the road, I'm screwed if anything is amiss. After all, isn't that what a quick link is for? To make removal and installation easier? Some people check keys in padlocks before locking them, some people don't. Again, it's a persons choice. Yes, maybe I should have stated this in the OP, but again, it's irrelevant. I simply stated in my OP that the link was a bugger to undo and that I'd never come across this before and wondered if it was due to the new iteration of KMC chains and quick links or not.

 

[migrantwing]

Obviously different in a few ways. Size, shape, chamfers and tabs on both ends, not seen on the one on the right. Also note '8 J' on link on left.