KMC XFLAT Waxed chains are specifically designed for modern SRAM 12/13-speed drivetrains and are characterized by their distinctive flat top profile. This design allows for a narrower chain while still providing high strength and durability.
Thanks to the innovative formula of KMC GO CHAIN WAX, the premium KMC chains treated with wax from the factory offer high efficiency and unrivaled durability. Compared to oil-based lubricants, waxed chains are less susceptible to dirt build-up, increasing drivetrain life and reducing cleaning intervals. Don't spend extra time waxing your new chain at home, buy a KMC pre-waxed chain, skip the mess, and go ride your bike!
Flat-Top chains are exclusively compatible with SRAM's 12-/13-speed AXS drivetrains or Transmission/T-Type. They are not compatible with other 12-/13-speed systems or older SRAM groups.
B-Stock - This product has one or more B-Stock units available. These units can be purchased at a discount (see option select). B-Stock units were returned from other customers and may have missing or damaged packaging materials. These units are otherwise as new. The full manufacturer warranty applies. Click Here for more information.
Type: Pre-Waxed | |
Silver | Mfg PartNum: CN12044 |
Chain Application: 12 Speed | |
Chain Application: 13-Speed | |
Ti-Gold | Mfg PartNum: CN12051 |
Chain Application: 12 Speed | |
Chain Application: 13-Speed | |
Ti-Gold/Black | Mfg PartNum: CN12068 |
Chain Application: 12 Speed | |
Chain Application: 13-Speed | |
Aurora | Mfg PartNum: CN12181 |
Chain Application: 12 Speed | |
I have bought this chain with a nice discount, finally a flattop SRAM alternative and it comes pre-waxed!
First, the chain was a bit noisier after only one ride. I have been waxing chains for some time, so I know they are not super quiet, but I expected better wax performance. I had to re-wax it after 500 miles.
After 1000 miles another, much nastier, surprise - I see rust on the chain (this is on a road bike, ridden in normal California winter conditions)! I have never had rusty SRAM flattop chain (Force or Red level), and I used them on my gravel bike in very very nasty conditions, not bothering cleaning it at all. This chain is NOT up to SRAM Force/Red standard! I know that in the past Rival chains could rust as they are not that well plated/coated, so I tried to avoid them. Now KMC XFLAT also comes to my blacklist...
I'm using the KMC flat top chains on a Lynskey gravel bike with SRAM's Rival XPLR AXS 1 X 12spd drive train. I cannot tell any difference in shifting between the KMC chains and SRAM's flat top chains. They are just as smooth shifting and, so far, seem to be more durable. I actually decided to try the KMC chains after getting less than satisfactory mileage out of a SRAM Apex D1 chain.
