The XX Eagle Transmission chain sits between the XX SL flagship and the X0 workhorse in SRAM's T-Type mountain lineup, and it's what SRAM specs on their XX Transmission groupset. SRAM calls it the strongest chain they've ever made, engineered specifically to optimize Eagle Transmission with the T-Type Flattop design. If you're running an XX or XX SL T-Type drivetrain and it's time to replace the chain, this is the direct spec replacement — and it drops in as an upgrade for X0 or GX Transmission builds where you want a lighter chain without stepping up to the fully cut-out XX SL.

The Flattop profile is what makes T-Type shifting behave the way it does. The chain uses a flattop profile on the upper surface and a smooth-shift bottom profile , which increases engagement area with the direct-mount cassette and lets the drivetrain shift under full load without backing off the pedals. This is the geometry that allows you to slam through gears while climbing out of the saddle — something that would destroy a traditional 12-speed drivetrain — but it only works when paired with a T-Type cassette and derailleur. Don't try to mix this chain into a standard Eagle setup.

Construction-wise, XX gets you a hollow pin design finished in a long-wearing, high durability chrome across both inner and outer plates. The hollow pins are where the weight savings over the X0 chain come from, while the chrome plating handles the mud, grit, and general abuse that mountain chains take. The chain ships with a SRAM PowerLock master link for installation, which is single-use — if you break the chain for cleaning or repair, you'll need a fresh PowerLock to reinstall.... Read More