Bike Build Story: The Drivetrain, the Chain. As explained in Part One , we're trying to build a bike "Made in Europe." This is achieved with the Connex 11SB. An article just about the chain? Yes, because this part is crucial: no chain, no propulsion.
Connex 11SB, Made in Germany, Made By Wippermann
A successful French downhill and freeride rider once said something along the lines of: "Suspension is essential, brakes are optional, a chain isn't necessary..." That's a fair assessment if you're primarily relying on gravity for propulsion. However, anyone who, like almost every biker, also wants to pedal, usually needs a chain. Besides transmitting power, a chain is also responsible for the quality of shifting and is crucial for the drivetrain's durability. The Connex 11SB chain meets these demands with several well-considered features.
Wippermann, the manufacturer of the Connex chains, is an industrial supplier. Hardly anyone knows that Wippermann was at times the largest chain and pedal factory in Europe. It all started with Wilhelm Wippermann, who decided in the 1920s to manufacture chains himself because his son's bicycle chain broke again. From the parent company in Hagen, the industry is also supplied with chains for mechanical engineering and other applications. So you have experience and know-how and you know what you are doing.
The 11SB Black Edition in detail
With 118 links, the chain weighs 270 grams. The color combination of black and gold is not just for looks. The Ultra Black Coating is a coating conceived for industrial applications. The chains thus last longer in machines, even under the most adverse conditions. What is sufficient for such demands should be just about good enough for the bicycle. Connex calls the lugs Speed Wing: This refers to an optimized lug design for quick and quiet gear changes. The outer contour in the so-called Diamond Shape should make the shifting processes even more precise. The chains are joined with the power pins, bolts with a specially tempered surface for maximum durability, which allow a specific radial riveting process.
Early on, Wippermann developed chain locks and also two-part chain locks, which are also available individually. Of course, the 11SB also has one. We have had very good experiences with the chain in terms of durability and, above all, performance.