Prefer Shimano Dura-Ace chain over Ultegra, not because of less weight, but because of durability of material, resulting in a bit more mileage before replacing chain.
Decided to try Dura-ace chain over Ultegra after reading difference between the two Shimano chains is more than just weight. Dura-ace chain uses lighter metal alloy that is less resistant to wear or "stretch." Not my words, but what I read that caused me to try spending extra coin for a Dura-ace chain. My experience was chain wear was less than experience with Ultegra chain after roughly the same time or miles. Unless you're the type of rider who itches to replace chain sooner rather than later for fear of cassette wear, get a bit more wear from your chain, I'd recommend the Dura-ace over the Ultegra despite the slightly extra cost.
Shimano Dura ace chains work properly a word of caution buy from a reputable dealer. I got a chain off of Amazon that came in Shimano packaging. That was a counterfeit.
My grouppo is DA 9100. The chain works well and lasts me about 2500 - 3000 miles. It is expensive and its pretty hard for me to say it is definitely better than the Ultegra and even the 105 equivalents which can be purchased at a much lower price. On the 10 speed versions Shimano only makes one model and it states its for 105, Ultegra and DA. I try to buy the DA chain only when its on sale and usually buy several at the same time as I go thru 2 to 3 chains per year.
I decided to splurge and buy a dura ace chain!
The dura ace chain is simply the best. Sturdy and smooth.
Don't normally get Dura Ace, but on sale was a good value. Really got it more for the durability than weight savings. I will notice more benefit from cutting burgers & fries than cutting weight on components.
Best chain I've used.
Been using these for decades. Not as durable as Ultegra chains, but durable enough if you take care of them.
Used this to replace a KMC that just wasn't right, the KMC made noise on my Campy drivetrain, this chain is great, no more noise.
Outstanding chain for my 11 speed Shimano Group Set.
Bought the hg901 chain as a gift for my wife. Great value when bought on sale. If not I would have opted for Ultegra/XT. These are extremely durable long wearing chains when taken care of properly.
Use: Road cycling
Lite weight, longevity.
I am having my first experience with Dura Ace, 9000 group set. I had never spent this much on a chain. It very smooth and quiet.
Gave my Ultegra drivetrain a little more snap. The hollow link pins offer 11 grams off the Ultegra chain, but personally I�m happier about the extra surface area it provides for wax.
25 MILES (DAILY)
I ride everyday. Don't want to think about my chain. Don't have to!
A few extra bucks for top end quality.
Easy choice.
Your chain is probably the first part to wear out on your bike, so why not treat yourself to a little weight-saving upgrade? These last a long time provided that you don't let them rust...which will happen if you ride in the rain with a dry lube that washes off. I dock Shimano a value rating star for packing it with their single-use Quicklink. You have to buy a reusable one separately if you need to take the chain off.
It shifts just fine with the bike's Shimano 105 derailleurs. It's hard to be enthused about the a chain in this price range, but 11-speed chains generally seem to be pricey, and this one at least includes a quick link.
I use an inline chain cleaner every 2-3 rides, and a wax-based lubricant (White Lightning Clean Ride). Despite this regimen, this chain acquires a surprising amount of dirt in just a few miles. It's almost as if it has some sort of coating that combines with the wax, and it just won't go away.
The Dura-Ace/XTR chain is noticeably quieter and smoother than the Ultegra chain for only a few dollars more.
This is an amazing option/upgrade. I am currently running this dura-ace chain with a 105 groupset and it works flawlessly. It also runs very smoothly and quiet as a waxed chain!
