Zero Friction Cycling efficiency data for SRAM flat top chains

Not while backpedaling. This is easy to test and feel the difference if it is significant.

Put the chain on the cog which gives a straight chainline, and then give the cranks a backwards spin. The difference between the drag of the SRAM Red flat top chain, and the YBN flat top chain is easy to discern with this test. Yes, the difference is that big. Red Flat Top chains are known to be pretty high friction, Force, as tested by Friction Facts/Ceramic Speed have less drag, and YBN’s new Flat Top chain has even less. KMC has a Flat Top model coming out as well, but I have not seen it for sale yet, it may be a good low friction choice, we shall see.

I’m running the recently released KMC 12sp flat top chain on a Force/Rival AXS chain set/rear derailleur combo. It arrived pre-waxed from KMC which saved me a job.

I’ve only done 100 miles and it’s surely saving me 10-50W because it’s gold coloured (/joke).

I can’t tell any difference Rival v Force v new KMC flat top chain if they’re all waxed to be honest. Except the Rival chain is heavy AF.

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I just picked up the new Force purple chain to pair with an XPLR setup and I was previously on the Red rainbow chain. Both stripped and waxed. Force is heavier but I have heard it’s faster. May have some unscientific power data down the road. Gone are the days when we just selected the HG901 chain because the nicest chain was also the longest lasting so it was the best bang for your buck :rofl:!