Quick link chain .. very very noddy question

[drivin_me_nuts]

Hi, super noddy question here.

I'm running 11 speed d12 and planning to replace one of the links on my chain with one of these

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/kmc-11-speed-chain-links/

I thought these were designed to be tool free and hence I was a little bit puzzled as to why the image says opening tool required. Err. what tool and if you need a tool what's the benefit of a quick link over just a chain tool and carrying a few spare links on you.

Also, whilst i'm here on this subject, are these any good or just smoke and mirrors?

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/shimano-hg70-116-link-11-s...

(on a Di2 Ultegra)

Regards,

confused of the sarf coast.

[47p2]

KMC missing link pliers

[Gren]

Easy enough to put on by hand but can be a bugger to get off without the tool.

[TheInternet]

Not sure if 11 speed is different but I've never needed any tools for these sorts of links.

[Gruffy]

I have one on the Triban (8-speed) and that hasn't needed any tools to open and close. I've not done it recently though so it may not be as compliant after a period of time/volume of muck.

Edited to add: It's a KMC quick link I've been using.

Edited by Gruffy on Saturday 18th April 23:27

[outnumbered]

You can get them on/off using a pair of good needle-nose pliers as well, but it can be tricky to get the correct angle/purchase on the link. I didn't even know there was a tool, so that's what I've been doing...

[Herman Toothrot]

KMC ones you squeeze the outer plates together with fingers and slide apart easily.

[Barchettaman]

Get the tool, they make assembly and disassembly miles easier.

[Sensibleboy]

On a slightly different subject. If anybody wants to buy some quick links Halfords seem to be quite cheap these days.