The PC-1170 sits in the middle of SRAM's 11-speed chain hierarchy — above the entry-level PC-1130 and below the hollow-pin PC-1190 and top-tier Red 22 chain — and it's the practical pick for a Force 22 or Rival 22 rebuild when you want the durability upgrade without paying for the flagship. SRAM's PC-1170 uses more heavily chamfered outer plates for improved shifting and quieter running, with chrome-hardened pin construction for longer chain life. That's the two-part pitch: the chamfered plates help the chain move cleanly across the cassette on upshifts, and the hardened pins push out the replacement interval.

Compatibility is the piece most riders need to confirm before ordering. This is an 11-speed chain, full stop — it works with SRAM Red 22, Force 22, Rival 22, CX1, Force 1, and Apex 1 groupsets, and it's also compatible with Shimano 11-speed road and mountain drivetrains. If you're running any 12-speed system (SRAM AXS, Eagle, Shimano 12-speed road or mountain), this is not the chain. And if you're on a 10-speed setup, you want the PC-1071 instead.

The PC-1170 ships with a 11-speed PowerLock connecting link, which installs without a chain tool — you thread it through, pull the cranks against the brake to seat it, and you're done. One thing worth noting: SRAM specifies the PowerLock is single-use. Every time you break the chain for cleaning or a wax cycle, you need a fresh link. Riders who wax chains and rotate multiples typically buy PowerLocks in bulk for this reason.... Read More