A Guide to YBN Bicycle Chains - Including World's Lightest Bike Chain!

When it comes to bike chains, the big names such as Shimano, SRAM, and KMC often dominate the conversation. But for those in the know, a lesser-known brand has been quietly revolutionising the industry for decades: YBN. This blog post delves into YBN bike chains, examining their origins, the innovative technologies they utilise, and why they deserve a spot on your bike.

 

1. Who is YBN?

YBN, short for Yaban Chain Industrial Co. Ltd., is a leading chain manufacturer based in Taiwan. Established in 1989, YBN has been a specialist in producing high-quality chains for various applications, including bicycles, motorcycles, industrial machinery, and automotive systems.

While they might be a newer name to some riders, YBN has sold millions of chains worldwide and prides itself on continuous innovation and a relentless pursuit of quality. YBN's manufacturing is located in both Taiwan and Vietnam.

 

2. YBN's Chain Technology

YBN's commitment to pushing the boundaries of chain technology sets them apart. Here's a look at some of their key technologies and the benefits they offer, especially when compared to other big-name brands:

  • DHA - Chromium Carbide Hardening Treatment: YBN was a pioneer in introducing DHA chromium hardening for their chain pins and rollers. This process significantly increases the surface hardness of these critical components, leading to exceptionally long service life and reduced wear.

  • SLA - Superior Lubricating Aid Coating: Many YBN chains feature their proprietary SLA coating, which is designed to reduce friction, benefit shifting performance, and increase service life. This translates to a smoother, quieter ride and improved efficiency, often rivalling or even surpassing the friction reduction found in top-tier chains from Shimano or SRAM, especially when paired with high-performance lubricants like waxes.

  • Super Shift: Designed with special plate chamfering for optimal shifting performance.

  • Ni-PTFE Treatment: In addition to SLA, YBN utilizes Ni-PTFE (Nickel-Polytetrafluoroethylene) treatment on some of their chains. PTFE, commonly known as Teflon, is a material renowned for its extremely low friction properties. This coating further reduces friction and enhances the chain's longevity, contributing to a more efficient power transfer and a quieter drivetrain.

  • Titanium Chain Technology: YBN stands out as one of the very few, if not the only, manufacturer globally to successfully incorporate titanium into their chain construction, particularly with their 6.4 titanium series. By applying DHA chromium hardening to titanium rollers, YBN has created the world's lightest chain.

  • Precision CNC Machining and Chamfered Plates: YBN chains are known for their accurately machined links and rollers, ensuring seamless engagement with cassettes and chainrings. The precisely chamfered plates contribute to crisp, fast gear shifts, even under high pedalling torque.

  • Anti-Rust Series: For riders in challenging weather conditions, YBN offers an "Anti-Rust" series. These chains can withstand the Sea Salt Spray Test for over 500 hours without rusting. For comparison, regular chains can only withstand for 24 hours.

  • Hollow Pins and Laser Cutouts: To further reduce weight without compromising strength, many YBN chains incorporate hollow pins and laser-cut outer and inner plates.

 

3. Types of Bike Chains Available at YBN

YBN offers a comprehensive range of bicycle chains catering to various drivetrain speeds and riding disciplines, from single-speed commuters to high-performance road and mountain bikes. Their primary categories include:

  • Speed-Specific Chains: YBN produces chains for virtually every modern drivetrain, including: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13-speed drivetrains, e-bikes, and single speed bikes.

     

  • Series/Technology-Specific Chains:
    • Titanium Series (e.g., SLA210, SLA211, SLA212): Their flagship, ultralight chains featuring titanium construction and DHA hardening.

    • SLA (Superior Lubricating Aid) Series: Chains with YBN's special low-friction, self-lubricating coating for enhanced durability and efficiency. These are available across various speed configurations (e.g., SLA110, SLA1210).

    • e-Bike Chains: Specifically engineered to withstand the higher torque and power output of e-bike drivetrains, offering increased durability.

    • Rust Buster Series: Chains with enhanced corrosion resistance for riding in wet, muddy, or otherwise challenging conditions.

 

4. Comparison Between Different YBN Chain Models

Ever found the YBN chain models confusing? We've created a table to compare the different models. We hope this helps! 

 

General YBN Chain Series Comparison (Representative Models)

Feature / Model Series SLA Series (e.g., SLA110, SLA1210) Titanium Series (e.g., SLA211, SLA212) e-Bike Series Anti-Rust Series
Key Differentiator Superior Lubricating Aid coating, low friction Titanium components, lightest weight, ultimate performance Enhanced strength for e-bikes High corrosion resistance
Material High-grade Steel, SLA coating Titanium + Steel, DHA hardening, SLA coating High-strength Steel Coated Steel
Weight Lightweight (hollow pins/cutouts on some models) Ultra-lightweight (among the lightest globally) Standard to slightly heavier Standard to slightly heavier
Durability Excellent, extended wear life due to SLA Excellent Very high, designed for high torque Excellent in adverse conditions
Friction Very low Very low Good Good
Shifting Precise and smooth Precise and smooth Reliable Reliable
Maintenance Excellent, compatible with waxing Excellent, compatible with waxing Standard Easy to clean
Price Point Mid to High-End Premium Mid-Range Mid-Range
Best For Performance road/MTB, long-distance, efficiency-focused Competitive racing, weight-weenies, ultimate performance Commuting, touring, demanding e-bike use All-weather riding, gravel, cyclocross
Compatibility Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo Drivetrain speed specific Drivetrain speed specific

5. Key to Deciphering YBN Chain Model Numbers

YBN's model numbers are fairly intuitive once you understand the pattern.

General Format: [SERIES/TECHNOLOGY] [SPEED] [MODEL_NUMBER] [COATING/COLOR]

The Exception: Ti Chains which have [MODEL_NUMBER] then [SPEED].

Let's break it down:

  • [SERIES/TECHNOLOGY]: This usually indicates the primary technology or series the chain belongs to.

    • SLA: Denotes the "Superior Lubricating Aid" coating, indicating a high-performance, low-friction chain.
    • MK: Generally used for their Flat-Top compatible chains (e.g., MK120 Ti Flat-Top).
    • "e" or "E" (e.g., e12, E11): Indicates an e-Bike specific chain.
    • "RB" (e.g., S12RB, S11RB): Rust Buster, their Anti-Rust chains.


  • [SPEED]: Indicates the number of speeds the chain is designed for.

    • 12: 12-speed drivetrain (e.g., SLA1210, MK120)
    • 11: 11-speed drivetrain (e.g., SLA110)
    • 10: 10-speed drivetrain (e.g., SLA101)
    • 9: 9-speed drivetrain (e.g., SLA901)
    • 410: Single-speed/BMX/Track chain (e.g., SLA 410).


  • [MODEL_NUMBER]: This is a sequential number or identifier within a specific speed and series. Higher numbers usually, but not always, indicate a slightly more refined version or later iteration within that category.

    • For example, SLA110 (for 11-speed) vs. SLA101 (for 10-speed) - the last two digits often relate to the specific model within that speed/series.
    • In the Titanium series: SLA212 (12-speed titanium), SLA211 (11-speed titanium). The "2" at the start seems to denote the "2nd generation" of the SLA Titanium series.


  • [COATING/COLOR] (Suffixes): These often denote the finish or plating on the chain.
    • TI-N: Titanium Nitride coating for coloured options

Examples:

  • SLA212-TiN:
    • SLA: Superior Lubricating Aid
    • 2: Denotes the Titanium series (highest end)
    • 12: 12-speed
    • Ti-N: Titanium Nitride finish, could be in black/gold colours.

  • SLA110-TIB:
    • SLA: Superior Lubricating Aid 
    • 11: 11-speed
    • 0: Model number within the 11-speed SLA range.
    • Ti-N: Titanium Nitride finish

  • MK12e:
    • MK: Series type, akin to SRAM flat top chains, but suitable for all other 12-speed drivetrains.
    • 12: 12-speed.
    • e: Suitable for e-bikes.


6. Where to find YBN Chains?

Ready to experience the YBN difference for yourself? Explore our full range of YBN Bike Chains and find the perfect match for your drivetrain.

Shop YBN Chains

Be wary of counterfeits! Our YBN chains are 100% authentic, sourced from a local Singapore distributor.

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