Shimano Chain Cnhg701 11 Speed 126 W/Ql
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Shimano CN-HG701-11 11-Speed Chain (126 links, Quick Link)
Shimano CN-HG701-11 Chain 11-Speed 126 Links Quick Link
What it is
The Shimano CN-HG701-11 is a:
- 11-speed road/MTB/gravel chain
- part of Shimano’s Ultegra / XT-level drivetrain range
- designed for HG-X11 directional shifting
- comes in 126 links
- includes a quick link (master link)
It sits just below Dura-Ace/XTR chains but above basic 105-level durability.
Key features
- ✔ 11-speed HG-X11 directional design
- ✔ SIL-TEC coating (low friction, improved durability)
- ✔ Smooth shifting under load
- ✔ Includes Shimano quick link connector
- ✔ Compatible with road, MTB, gravel, and e-bike 11-speed systems
Why “126 links” matters
- Supplied as full-length chain for installation
- Must be cut to correct bike length
- Common for MTB and long-cage derailleur setups
Compatibility
Works with:
- Shimano 11-speed drivetrains
- 105 / Ultegra / GRX (11-speed)
- XT M8000 MTB 11-speed systems
- many e-bike 11-speed setups
❌ Not compatible with:
- 12-speed systems
- 10-speed or lower drivetrains
Ride feel
- very smooth and quiet shifting
- strong under load (climbing / sprinting)
- noticeably more durable than entry-level 11-speed chains
- excellent chain retention with clutch derailleurs
Best suited for
- road cyclists upgrading from 105 chains
- gravel riders needing durability
- MTB riders on 11-speed XT setups
- endurance and training bikes
Pros
- excellent Shimano mid/high-tier chain performance
- SIL-TEC reduces friction and wear
- reliable shifting across cassette range
- includes quick link for easy installation
- wide drivetrain compatibility (11-speed Shimano systems)
Trade-offs
- more expensive than basic HG54 / HG601 chains
- must be correctly sized (126L rarely used as-is)
- not compatible with modern 12-speed systems
- directional installation required
Bottom line
The Shimano CN-HG701-11 is a high-quality 11-speed chain used across Shimano Ultegra and XT systems, offering smooth, durable performance with SIL-TEC efficiency and a quick-link for easy setup—making it a strong upgrade choice for serious 11-speed road, gravel, or MTB builds.
