The C13 chain measures 4.9 millimeters wide, which makes it 0.25 millimeters narrower than Campagnolo's 12-speed chain. That reduced width allows the drivetrain to fit thirteen cogs in the same cassette width while maintaining the clearances needed for clean shifting across the full range. The chain works specifically with Ekar's narrow-wide tooth profile on the chainring and cassette, which alternates tooth width to match the inner and outer plates. This tooth design keeps the chain centered on the single chainring without a front derailleur and prevents chain drop during rough terrain or cross-chained conditions.

Inner links use C60 steel with a nickel-teflon surface treatment that reduces friction and resists accelerated wear from grit exposure. Outer links use C67 NiCrMo2 steel—a higher carbon content alloy that handles greater mechanical stress where the pins attach. The nickel surface treatment on the outer plates provides corrosion resistance when you're riding through wet conditions or storing the bike between rides. Manufacturing takes place at Campagnolo's facility in Vicenza, Italy, where each chain goes through an ultrasound bath lubrication process. The ultrasonic system penetrates the lubricant deeply into pivot points and bearing surfaces rather than just coating external surfaces, which extends service intervals between cleaning and re-lubrication.

This version ships with the C-Link master link pre-installed, which allows tool-free chain removal for cleaning after muddy rides. You cut the chain to your required length using a chain tool compatible with the C13's narrow profile, then reconnect using the C-Link. The 117-link length covers most gravel bike setups, though you may need to add links for bikes with extremely long chainstays or large cassette-to-chainring combinations. Campagnolo recommends installing a fresh C-Link whenever you reinstall the chain rather than reusing the old link.... Read More