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A published link count and weight, which most chains omit

SHIMANO HG 40 chain, 116 links, 7/8-speed

Shimano's workhorse chain for 7 and 8-speed drivetrains, supplied at 116 links and around 300 g, compatible with single, double and triple chainrings.

Shimano HG 40 bicycle chain in its box

SHIMANO HG 40 chain, 116 links, 7/8-speed

Shimano's workhorse chain for 7 and 8-speed drivetrains, supplied at 116 links and around 300 g, compatible with single, double and triple chainrings.

Speed compatibility
Rear 6/7/8-speed, front 1/2/3-speed
Link count
116
Weight
approx. 300 g
Amazon reference
B0017XXGCI (identical on 6 markets)
EAN
4032191635750
  • Published link count and weight, which almost no chain listing gives
  • Explicit front compatibility as well as rear — single, double and triple
  • One hundred and sixteen links may need shortening substantially on a small frame

Best for: Replacing a chain on a Shimano 7 or 8-speed drivetrain with the part it was designed around.

≈ 15 €
Check price on Amazon

Specifications

Speed compatibility
Rear 6/7/8-speed, front 1/2/3-speed
Link count
116
Weight
approx. 300 g
Amazon reference
B0017XXGCI (identical on 6 markets)
EAN
4032191635750

The HG 40 is Shimano’s long-running chain for 7 and 8-speed drivetrains, and it is specified more fully than most.

What the manufacturer publishes

A chain length of 116 links. A weight of approximately 300 grams. Rear compatibility with Shimano 6, 7 and 8-speed. Front compatibility with 1, 2 and 3-speed.

Why the published figures matter

Two numbers appear here that almost no chain listing gives. Link count tells you whether the chain is long enough before you order — relevant on a long-chainstay touring bike or a bike with a very large rear sprocket. Weight tells you what kind of chain it is: 300 g is a durable 8-speed chain, where an 11-speed racing chain is closer to 240 g.

Front compatibility

Worth noting because it is rarely stated. A chain has to clear the front derailleur cage and shift between chainrings, and a triple puts different demands on it than a single. Shimano covering 1, 2 and 3 explicitly removes a question.

Joining it

No quick link is included with this reference. Shimano publishes a joining method for its own chains, and it should be followed rather than substituted — several manufacturers state a pressed joint is not permitted on their chains.

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