KMC Z8S IG or HG compatibility - Project Sports
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KMC Z8S IG or HG compatibility

4 min read

Asked by: Cindy Hudgins

Can I use IG chain on HG?

Can I use an IG chain with a HG cassette? All current HG cassette cogs are specially profiled to be HG or IG chain compatible. Any Shimano IG chain will work with any HG cassette. If you use a HG chain with a 7-speed IG cassette (CS-IG50 and CS-IG60) the rear derailleur adjustment becomes more critical.

What is the difference between Shimano IG and HG chains?

The HG chain is a narrower chain meant for 8-9 speed drive trains. The IG chain is wider and meant for 6,7,8 speed drive trains.

Are KMC chains compatible with SRAM?

One of the main advantages of KMC chains is that they are compatible with Sram, Campagnolo, and Shimano drivetrains.

Is KMC X12 compatible with Shimano?

In line with these new requirements, we have consistently revised our 12-speed segment and made the X12, e12 and DLC12 compatible with all shifting systems from SRAM, Shimano, Campagnolo, and other manufacturers.

What is the difference between HG40 and HG71?

In terms of the chain, the 8-speed chains are CN-HG71, which was formerly called CN-HG50, and CN-HG40, which was introduced in 2006. They are the same chain, having the same weight, the difference is ‘chromizing treatment on link pins‘. Perhaps this makes them slightly more durable.

What is IG in Shimano?

Rather, it is the letter “I” which stands for “interactive glide.” That means that although it is of the Shimano HG model series it is only compatible with IG chain. IG chain has an external width of 7.1mm compared to HG’s 6.6mm. Your KMC Z8S chain has a outside width of 7.1mm.

What do Shimano HG numbers mean?

Re: Shimano HG##?



The higher the number the more expensive it is, a bit like 105 and 600 groupsets. From Mr Shimano’s viewpoint quality is a combination of performance, weight and longevity but not necessarily in that order.

Are all Shimano 11-speed chains the same?

Chains for 11-Speed Bicycles



11-speed drivetrains require 11-speed chains. Shimano and SRAM 11-speed chains are cross-compatible. If you have a Shimano 11-speed drivetrain, a SRAM chain will work fine and vice versa, however manufacturer’s recommend pairing your components for optimal performance.

What is the difference between a 10 and 11-speed chain?

Chains for 11-speed systems are around 5.4mm wide on the outside, vs. around 5.9mm wide for 10-speed ones, so that’s 0.25mm narrower from the center of the cog tooth to the end of the chain pin on each side.

Is KMC chain compatible with SRAM AXS?

KMC do advertise it as being compatible with SRAM 12 speed road groups.

Can you use KMC quick link on Shimano chain?

Yes, ime they all work. I even carry a few SRAM links with me even though I run shimano chains (9&10 speed). There are different sizes for different speed systems. I’ve been using KMC reusable missing links with a 9 speed Shimano drivetrain (XT chain) for a year now.

Can you reuse KMC chain links?

A little-known fact is that KMC offers both reusable and non-reusable quick links for 10 and 11-speed chains.

How do you install a Shimano HG chain?

Quote from video: Break off the narrow end of the pin if the link feels stiff. Place the chain on the inner grooves of the chain tool closest to the handle. And tighten. It just a bit until the link rotates smoothly.

Can I use a SRAM missing link on a KMC chain?

Yes. I’ve used SRAM and KMC missing links on 9- and 10-speed Shimano chains for years.

What chains are compatible with SRAM AXS?

NOTE: SRAM AXS ROAD drivetrain MUST RUN SRAM AXS FORCE OR RED CHAINS – NO AFTERMARKET / OTHER CHAIN TYPES ARE COMPATIBLE – Axs road is a much more narrow chain and has oversize rollers – you MUST run axs road chains, YBN / CAMPY / Shimano 12spd chains are NOT compatible with AXS Road 12spd.

Are all 12-speed chains compatible?

Chains have become narrower to match, which limits their compatibility between drivetrains with different numbers of gears. Therefore, you can’t run a 12-speed chain with an 11-speed sprocket set, for example, and it means that if you’ve got an 11-speed drivetrain you’ll need an 11-speed chain.

Are KMC 12-Speed chains good?

KMC’s X12 Ti Nitride 12-speed chain falls well short in expected durability. However, as covered in the next section, it certainly has a purpose. More and more 12-speed chains are continually hitting the market, and these are something that Kerin will likely revisit in the future.

Can you use KMC chain on Shimano 12 speed?

Conclusion: KMC model X12 12-speed chain is not compatible with Shimano 12-2peed XT drive train.

Are KMC 12 speed chains directional?

Non-Directional



Unlike other bicycle chain brands, we do not have an indicated mounting direction of the chain.