Spendy 9-speed and 10-speed chains get a lot of complicated profiling on the side-plates to ease shifting. They’re also built really narrow. Chains for FG/SS/8-speed or less drivetrains don’t need as much attention. I believe Wippermans are expensive because they’re built with bushings in the traditional fashion.
good chains that dont sacrifice quality through the overdesigned wieght saving are good chains. I like heavy ass chains. who cares, its a chain. Id rather take a 105 10spd chain on my road bike over a dura ace that has been over designed and light as hell and will wear out twice as fast as the 105. thats why I love my kmc. heavy duty and attractive.
My friend rolls with an izumi, Its just something you have to ride to understand, feels better, assurance that your chain will NEVER break, wont wear as quickly or stretch. If you look at them up close an compare, cheap chains just look like trash.[/quote]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=504U_9yHYE8