Best 12 Speed Bike Chains of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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The 12 speed bike chain is a durable and reliable essential for any serious cyclist. These chains are designed to fit 12-speed bikes and offer smooth and efficient gear shifting. Made from high-quality materials, such as hardened steel, these chains are built to withstand the rigors of intense cycling and ensure a long-lasting performance. With a range of brands and styles available, cyclists can choose the perfect 12 speed bike chain to suit their needs and budget. Whether you're a competitive racer or a weekend rider, a 12 speed bike chain is an essential piece of kit for a smooth and efficient ride.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SRAM GX Eagle 12-Speed Chain Cover #TOP 1
SRAM GX Eagle 12-Speed Chain
ftb score rating icon 9.8
KMC X12 Chain Cover #TOP 2
KMC X12 Chain
ftb score rating icon 9.7
SHIMANO Deore M6100 12-Speed Chain Cover #TOP 3
SHIMANO Deore M6100 12-Speed Chain
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 12 Speed Bike Chains

#TOP 1

SRAM GX Eagle 12-Speed Chain

00.2518.030.011
Silver
SRAM GX Eagle 12-Speed Chain Cover
SRAM GX Eagle Hollow Pin 12-Speed Chain 126 Links with PowerLock, Silver/Gray

The SRAM GX Eagle 12-Speed Chain is a bike chain designed with SRAM's Eagle geometry and solid pin construction. It features Eagle PowerLock that offers smooth and efficient shifting, ensuring reliable performance every time you ride.

What We Like
Reliable and efficient shifting
Solid pin construction for durability
Eagle PowerLock for secure connection
#TOP 2

KMC X12 Chain

KMC
X12 x 126L, Silver
SILVER
126 Links
KMC X12 Chain Cover
KMC X12 Chain 12-Speed, Silver, Mountain Bike/Road/Gravel 12 Speed Chain: Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo Compatible. 126 Links, Missing Link Included

The KMC X12 Chain is a high-quality 12-speed chain designed for both mountain and road bike use. With its titanium-nitride carbon coating, this chain offers exceptional durability and resistance to wear. The 1/2"x11/128"x126L size ensures a precise fit and smooth shifting performance. Compatible with Campagnolo, Shimano, and Sram 12-speed systems, this chain is versatile and can be used with a wide range of drivetrains. Whether you're tackling tough off-road trails or cruising on the pavement, the KMC X12 Chain provides reliable performance and ensures a smooth and efficient ride.

What We Like
Durable
Precise fit
Smooth shifting
#TOP 3

SHIMANO Deore M6100 12-Speed Chain

Shimano
Silver
12 Speed, 126 Links
SHIMANO Deore M6100 12-Speed Chain Cover
SHIMANO Deore Cn-M6100 Chain Silver, 12 Speed, 126 Links

The SHIMANO M6100 Chain is designed for enhanced performance on your bike. Its extended inner plate helps with better chain engagement, ensuring a secure fit while you ride. You won't have to worry about reusing this chain, as it is designed for one-time use, providing reliability during your cycling adventures. The included QUICK-LINK tool simplifies the assembly and disassembly process, making maintenance a breeze. With its proprietary design, you can enjoy smooth shifts and impressive strength, giving you confidence in your bike's performance.

What We Like
Improved chain engagement
Easy assembly tool included
Smooth shifting performance
Reliable one-time use
#TOP 4

SRAM NX Eagle Chain

CHPC8031011
Black
12 Speed
SRAM NX Eagle Chain Cover
SRAM NX Eagle Chain - 12-Speed, 126 Links, Gray

The SRAM Eagle Chain is a revolutionary innovation that offers second-to-none performance, allowing you to achieve the ultimate ride. With 12-speed and 126 links, this gray chain is designed for bike chains. The chain's innovative features make it stand out from the competition. The performance of the Eagle Chain is simply second to none, giving you the ability to ride like never before. The chain's model number is CHPC8031011. With the Eagle Chain, you can enjoy a smooth and efficient ride that is sure to impress.

What We Like
12-speed
126 links
Revolutionary innovation
#TOP 5

KMC E12 EPT 12 Speed Chain

KMC
306102
Dark Silver
130 Links
KMC E12 EPT 12 Speed Chain Cover
KMC E12 EPT 12 Speed E-Bike Chain, 130 Links, Dark Silver

The KMC E12 Chain is specifically engineered for mid-engine e-bikes, such as those from Bosch and Panasonic. This chain boasts exceptional torsion resistance, making it perfect for handling demanding shifts and high torque. It is compatible with various 12-speed systems from Campagnolo, Shimano, and Sram MTB, though not with Sram road groups due to pin length differences. Additionally, its EcoProTeQ technology provides impressive anti-rust protection, ensuring durability even in harsh conditions. With its non-directional design, you can easily install this chain without worrying about orientation, enhancing compatibility for all types of bikes.

What We Like
High torsion resistance
Excellent anti-rust protection
Compatible with multiple brands
Easy to install
#TOP 6

Shimano XT/Ultegra 12-Speed Chain

Shimano
Silver
138 Links
Shimano XT/Ultegra 12-Speed Chain Cover
Shimano Xt/Ultegra 12-Speed Chain Silver, 138 Links

The Shimano 12-Speed Chain is a high-quality bike chain designed to provide smooth and reliable shifting performance. Made from a durable zinc-alloy and steel material, this chain is built to withstand tough riding conditions. The SIL-TEC coating enhances durability and reduces friction, ensuring a longer lifespan for the chain. With 138 links, it offers a precise fit and easy installation with the Quick-Link connection. Compatible with Shimano XT 8100 series components, this chain is a perfect choice for upgrading your bike. The claimed weight of 8.9oz (252g) makes it lightweight and ideal for riders looking to shave off some grams. Whether you're a professional cyclist or a casual rider, the Shimano 12-Speed Chain delivers reliable performance and durability.

What We Like
Smooth shifting
Durable construction
Easy installation
#TOP 7

SRAM NX Eagle Chain with Powerlock

0791943516900
SRAM NX Eagle Chain with Powerlock Cover
SRAM NX Eagle 12-Speed Chain 126 Links Gray w Decal, Powerlock Included

SRAM Eagle Chain is a 12-speed chain with 126 links and a Powerlock connector. It has FLOW LINK technology that guides the chain smoothly and increases its longevity. The chain has a unique design that provides significant wear resistance on Eagle cassettes and rings. It is compatible with all Eagle drivetrains, so you can easily install it on your bike. With SRAM Eagle Chain, you can have a smooth and durable ride without worrying about frequent chain replacements. The FLOW LINK technology ensures that the chain glides smoothly on the cassette and rings, giving you a comfortable and hassle-free ride.

What We Like
Smooth and durable ride
FLOW LINK technology for better chain-guiding and increased longevity
Significantly improved wear resistance on Eagle cassettes and rings

Bike Chain Kit, Multi-Function Mechanic Repair Kit

RU-0124
Bike Chain Kit, Multi-Function Mechanic Repair Kit Cover
Bike Chain Kit, Single/6/7/8/9/10/11/12 Speed Multi-Function Bike Mechanic Repair Kit, Chain Breaker and Bike Link Plier with Hook and 6 Pairs Bicycle Buckle, Reusable (6/7/8 Speed Bike Chain Kit)

The Bike Chain Kit includes 1 set of speed chain, bike link plier with hook, chain breaker and 6 pairs of bicycle chain buckle. Made of special forging steel, the chains are anti-rust, anti-corrosion, wear-resistant and durable. The Double X bridge design improves the tensile, torsional strength of the chain and have variable speed fluency improvement. The kit is easy to install and suitable for 6-speed, 7-speed, 8-speed road and mountain bikes.

What We Like
Efficient, accurate matching and labor-saving
Anti-rust, anti-corrosion, wear-resistant and durable chains
Double X bridge design improves the chain strength and speed fluency
#TOP 9

KMC X12 12 Speed Chain

KMC
BX12TB126
Gold/Black
126 Link
KMC X12 12 Speed Chain Cover
KMC X12 12 Speed Chain, Ti-N Gold/Black, 126 Link

The KMC X12 Chain is designed for optimal performance and compatibility. Its non-directional design ensures it fits seamlessly with various bike setups. You will appreciate the X-Bridge system, which allows for faster and smoother gear changes, enhancing your riding experience. The chain is compatible with 12-speed systems from Campagnolo, Shimano, and Sram MTB, although it does not work with Sram road groups due to pin length differences. Additionally, the Titanium Nitride coating provides added durability and a sleek look, making it a reliable choice for serious cyclists.

What We Like
Maximum compatibility
Smoother gear shifting
Durable Titanium Nitride coating
Lightweight design
#TOP 10

SRAM XX1 Eagle Chain

00.2518.043.010
Copper
Única
SRAM XX1 Eagle Chain Cover
SRAM XX1 Eagle Chain - 12-Speed, 126 Links, Copper

The SRAM Eagle Chain is a high-quality bike chain designed for 12-speed bikes. With 126 links, it offers a smooth and precise shifting experience for your bike. The XX1 Eagle Chain is manufactured by SRAM, a well-known brand in the cycling industry. The chain is durable and reliable, ensuring that you can ride with confidence. It is designed to be compatible with a wide range of bikes, making it a versatile option for any cyclist. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, the SRAM Eagle Chain is an excellent choice for your bike.

What We Like
Precise shifting
Durable and reliable
Compatible with various bikes
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our 12 speed bike chain research, we found 24 12 speed bike chain products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 29,234 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 12 speed bike chains list. We found that most customers choose 12 speed bike chains with an average price of $32.09.

The 12 speed bike chains are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 12 speed bike chains, including SRAM, KMC, SHIMANO, RUBY.Q. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 959 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.