Top 10 Best BMX Bike Chains Today [2022]

Whatever type of BMX bike you’re going to ride, choosing the suitable chain among other parts is significant since it’s a critical element of your bike’s transmission. It separates your BMX from scootering by connecting your powertrain’s front and back parts. This includes the pedals, cranks, and rear elements.

Chain Buyers Guide

It’s convenient to buy any chain for the sole purpose of cycling. But if you’re a rider who goes on rocky adventures and grinding using your BMX, you’ll need a high-quality, wear-resistant one.

As we dive into the best BMX chains, some factors that we looked through in considering the best ones include their material—whether they are composed of carbon steel, alloy, or nickel plating to minimize rust. It must be solid and not stretch easily; it has exceptional wear resistance and precise heat treatment. Even a lifetime warranty against the chainplates breaking is provided for some BMX chains.

Regardless of the type of chain you will use, note that it’s important to lubricate it for maintenance purposes and replace it when necessary. BMX chains are just like any other products that would stretch and get worn out longtime.

Best and Affordable BMX Bike Chains Today

Most bike chains are composed of alloy steel for strength, so riders may pretty much go wherever they want. For those who desire a more robust model for grinding, some performance chains may include high-end alloy parts or hollow plates.

Here are the best BMX bike chains for all riding styles on the market today.

1. ODYSSEY Bluebird BMX Chain ⅛” – Best Overall

Editor’s Rating:  
4.9 rating

‎Kette Strebenschutz Führung Odyssey Bluebird model is perfect for sports and outdoor use of chains. It is made of KMC 510-HX solid chains, while the connector links are convenient to assemble. The brand is known for its longevity and functionality. Hence, it features the right chain length and geometry for your riding demands and style. The item package dimensions are 3.62 x 3.62 x 1.02 inches, weighing 0.97 Pounds, both suitable for men and women.

Pros
  • Made of more robust assembled pin joints than manufactured-assembled models
  • Excellent chain for fine-tuning wheel geometry
  • Features high-grade material that secures longevity
  • Reliable chains for short landings and tiny gears
Cons
  • Color of the connection links and chains are not the same
  • May stretch quicker than other chains models

2. KMC Kool Knight Bicycle Chain Bicycle Chain (Silver, 1/2 x 1/8 – Inch) – Best in Durability

Editor’s Rating:  
4.7 rating

KMC K710SL Superlite Kool Bicycle Chains are guaranteed to last much longer than other models in the same price range. This product is one of the lightest 10-speed chains on the market since it features hollow, high-alloy pins and plates. It has a 1/8″ cog thickness, ideal for BMX and track bikes. 

Item Package Dimensions are ‎8.98 x 2.95 x 0.55 inches, weighing 0.4 Kilograms, and suitable for both men and women riders. Available in powder-coated hues, nickel-plated silver, or gold (tin coating that decreases friction).

Pros
  • A flat exterior surface won’t catch during slides.
  • Features anti-drop style
  • Proven solid chains and does not stretch easily
Cons
  • Although works fine, paints are not of excellent quality
  • Master link may only be removed with a specific tool and is not reusable.
  • Not colored link

3. ZONKIE 6/7/8 Speed Bike Chain 1/2 x 3/32 Inch 116 Links – High-Quality Parts

Editor’s Rating:  
4.6 rating

ZONKIE is known for producing high-quality bicycle accessories used by riders and professional athletes. Thus, its newly developed Speed Bike Chain was made suitable for Shimano, Campagnolo, and SRAM drive systems. 

This model comes with a professional equipment test spacing and professional and technical test results and is simple to assemble and reuse. Item Package Dimensions are ‎4 x 3.8 x 0.7 inches, weighing ‎0.34 Kilograms made of alloy steel.

Pros
  • With its unique steel, it can withstand a tensile load of 950 kg.
  • Excellent rust and corrosion resistance
  • Chain link lubrication of the highest quality (surface polishing, internal oiling)
  • For better sliding and resistance of metal links, it has lesser friction than other types.
Cons
  • Longevity of the product is rated only 2.9 out of 5 stars by the customers
  • The quick-link material of the chain of the bike might be confusing
  • Needs tension and tugging on the chain to set the link

4. Single Speed Bike Chain – Unique Forging Steel

Editor’s Rating:  
4.5 rating

Single Speed Bike Chain features 115 links and a 1-Speed Bicycle Chain with 1/2×1/8 inch measurement compatible with all single-speed chains and BMX bicycles. It is made of a unique forging steel that has undergone repeated forging, making it strong, long-lasting, and resistant to rust and corrosion. Package dimensions are  8.03 x 2.52 x 0.51 inches, weighing 11.99 Ounces and ranked #63 in bike chains.

Pros
  • High compatibility with several BMX bicycle types
  • Reusable, easy to disassemble, and easy to clean
  • The chains will be delivered in perfect condition and are of high quality.
  • Has no chainring or any wobble effect.
  • Colors may merge together and become stylish.
Cons
  • Has reports of popping off chains and pin failures
  • Needs constant roll lubrication
  • Occasionally sluggish and noisy on any driving chain.

5. ZHIQIU FSC F410 1-Speed Bicycle Chain Single (1/2 x 1/8-Inch, 104L) – Best for High Precision

Editor’s Rating:  
4.4 rating

ZHIQIU FSC F410 1-Speed Bicycle Chain is made of copper and manganese steel material that ensures wear resistance and robust yet comfortable riding experience. It features high precision heat treatment that measures 1/2- Inch x 1/8-Inch, 104 Links, and is compatible with fitness series and single-speed Chain types of bicycles. Item Package Dimensions are 7.52 x 2.6 x 0.35 inches, weighing 0.32 Kilograms, and rated #17 in Bike Chains.

Pros
  • While the size is mostly fit for BMX bikes, chain size is also easy to adjust. Also perfect for rebuilds
  • Works better and functions efficiently than chains in the same price range
  • Has exceptional wear resistance and precise heat treatment.
Cons
  • Needs chain tools such as snapper to shorten the links to adjust
  • Might encounter minimal problems with the master link lock
  • Color does not last long, and the bling may fade easily

6. POZDOZ 9 Speed Bike Chain – Best for Different Speeds

Editor’s Rating:  
4.3 rating

POZDOZ 6/7/8 Speed Bicycle Chain features gold half hollow ultralight 116 Links and road bike chains Parts. It is made of special forging steel and has been professionally tested for its efficiency and strength. Package Dimensions ‏are ‎ 9.33 x 3.46 x 0.71 inches, weighing 11.25 ounces, and work perfectly for 6/7/8/16/24-speed road, BMX, and mountain bikes. The product ensures overall performance, resistance to corrosion, toughness, and durability.

Pros
  • High-end performance, proven resistant to corrosion
  • Ensures a quiet and seamless riding experience
  • Overall great quality and aesthetic appearance (has a wide variety of color)
  • Works perfect for light-weight roads and smooth shifting
  • Provides missing links and does not require chain tools for easier installation
Cons
  • Appears more “gimmicky” compared to other models
  • Has reports of loose chains and poor shifting experience 

7. zonkie Single-Speed Bicycle Chain 1/2 x 1/8 Inch 116 Links – Most Resistant to Rust

Editor’s Rating:  
4.2 rating

zonkie Single-Speed Bicycle Chain is composed of high-quality carbon steel than ensures durability and better performance. The chain material’s surface is covered with high-quality paint, making it resistant to rust, vivid in color, and difficult to fade. Item package dimensions are ‎4 x 3.9 x 0.8 inches, weighing 0.38 kilograms. It has two quick-connect buckles that may be used to join the chain fast for easier installation.

Pros
  • Although the chain is heavy, it can undoubtedly withstand extreme roads.
  • Overall great quality and quick installation
  • Runs and flows smoothly. Its durability and longevity are proven
  • Chains are delivered quickly, with a wide selection of colors.
Cons
  • Only suitable for single-speed BMX bicycles
  • Needs to force the connector links together

8. VG SPORTS 6/7/8/9/10/11 Speed Bike Chain – For Noise-Free Riding

Editor’s Rating:  
4.1 rating

VG SPORTS Speed features lightweight bicycle chains that come with 116-links measuring 1/2″x3/32″ (provided with a missing link), suitable for 6/7/8/16/24 road bikes, MTB, and BMX. With an ultimate tension of 1800 kg, this type guarantees high-strength steel. It has great inlay force and produces noise-free, smooth shifting while preventing the chain and chainrings from collating. Thus, it features technology for centerless grinding and chroming. Package dimensions are 9.61 x 5.35 x 1.22 inches; weighing 10.19 Ounces.

Pros
  • An additional 30–50% increase in wear resistance (50C high strength steel)
  • Asymmetrical external chamfers
  • Has an electroplating layer that provides all-around protection from elements caught in road climbing, snow, heavy rain, etc.
  • Has three-layer vacuum plating to prevent rust
  • Comes with a wide variety of colors (Silver/Gold/Titanium/Rainbow)
Cons
  • Chains appeared to be able to sway back and forth because the plates were loose.
  • Not as robust as Shimano or SRAM products

9. Z1eHX Wide x 112L +OL, Neo Chrome – Most Long-Lasting Chain

Editor’s Rating:  
4.0 rating

Z1eHX Wide (KMC product) chain is a heavy-duty chain designed specifically for heavy performance and single speed wheels, featuring high tensile strength and nickel-plated materials. It is the ideal choice for riders on a tight budget who want a high-quality, exceptionally sturdy, and long-lasting chain. Item Package Dimensions are ‎4.09 x 3.9 x 1.22 inches, weighing ‎0.43 Kilograms. It is made of alloy steel material that works bikes with internally geared hubs—IGH (Internal Gear Hub) BMX, Fixie, and Track bikes.

Pros
  • High performance 1/8″ bike chain for single speeds
  • Enhanced durability and high pin power
  • Undergone special heat treatment to increase durability
  • Smooth riding and shifting experience
  • Features anti-drop design
  • Greater, thicker, and safer
  • Available in a wide variety of choices (Neo Chrome, Silver, and Gun Metal Black)
Cons
  • Links have a peculiar form.
  • Compared to the pictures presented/modeled, colors appear to be duller in actuality.
  • Does not provide tools for installing links on frame

10. X.Store 6/7/8 Speed Bike – Better for 6/7/8-Speed Cassettes

Editor’s Rating:  
3.9 rating

The X.Store Speed Bike Chain model includes a 116-link stainless steel breaker and chain checker, 5 pairs of bicycle missing links, and a 1/2 x 3/32-inch repair tool. It is suitable for all brands of speed bicycle chains, proven effective, and labor-saving. Package dimensions are 10.67 x 4.49 x 1.5 inches, weighing 1.1 lbs, which are suitable for all 6-speed,7-speed, and 8-speed cassettes.

Pros
  • Has a double X-bridge design that is highly efficient for shifting. 
  • Features electroplating bright silver anti-rust, wear-resistant and durable accessories for a more robust strength.
  • Made of high-density materials for overall high-quality product
  • High compatibility level to different types of BMX bicycles
Cons
  • May take time putting chains together and setting the link pins
  • Needs maintenance; it might be covered in rust after a few rides