Shimano CN-M8100 Ultegra / XT 12-Speed Chain 116 Link

Name: Shimano CN-M8100 Ultegra / XT 12-Speed Chain 116 Link
Brand: Shimano
Price: 64.99 AUD
Availability: InStock

$64.99 AUD

Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

The Shimano CN-M8100 Ultegra / XT 12-Speed Chain is a high-performance replacement chain designed for smooth Hyperglide+ shifting, strong chain retention and long-lasting drivetrain efficiency, making it a smart value upgrade for road, gravel, MTB and e-bike riders across Brisbane, Queensland and Australia.

Shimano 12-speed Hyperglide+ chain for fast, smooth and reliable shifting
Extended inner plate design improves chain engagement and retention
SIL-TEC surface treatment helps reduce friction and improve durability
Shimano Quick-Link included for easier installation and servicing
Excellent compatibility across Shimano Ultegra, 105, GRX, XT, SLX and compatible 12-speed drivetrains

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Technical Specifications

Product Name: Shimano CN-M8100 Ultegra / XT 12-Speed Chain
Model: CN-M8100
Speed: 12-speed
Chain Type: Shimano HG 12-speed
Technology: Hyperglide+
Links: 116 links
Average Weight: Approximately 252g
Connection Type: Shimano Quick-Link included
Quick-Link Model: SM-CN910-12
Plate Design: Extended inner plate for improved engagement
Surface Treatment: SIL-TEC treatment for smoother running and improved durability
Roller Link Plate: Chromizing treatment
Colour: Shimano series silver / grey finish
Directional Chain: Yes, must be installed in the correct orientation
E-Bike Compatibility: Compatible with Shimano 12-speed e-bike rear derailleur systems
Drivetrain Compatibility: Shimano 12-speed road, gravel, MTB and compatible e-bike drivetrains
Recommended Use: Road cycling, gravel riding, MTB, endurance riding, commuting, e-bike use and high-mileage training
Included: 116-link chain and Shimano Quick-Link
Quick-Link Reuse: Shimano 12-speed Quick-Link is generally recommended as single-use

Compatibility Notes

Suitable for Shimano 12-speed drivetrain systems where CN-M8100 compatibility is specified.
Commonly used with Shimano Ultegra R8100, 105 R7100, GRX 12-speed, XT M8100, SLX M7100 and compatible Shimano 12-speed setups.
For best performance, pair with Shimano 12-speed cassettes and chainrings designed around Hyperglide+ technology.
Correct chain length is essential for safe shifting and long drivetrain life.

Hyperglide+ Shifting Technology

Shimano Hyperglide+ technology is designed to deliver faster, smoother and more controlled gear changes, especially when shifting under pedalling load. This helps maintain rhythm when climbing, accelerating, riding off-road or pushing hard during bunch rides.

Extended Inner Plate Design

The CN-M8100 uses an extended inner plate profile that improves chain engagement with Shimano 12-speed cassettes and chainrings. This helps increase chain retention, reduce drivetrain vibration and support cleaner shifting.

SIL-TEC Surface Treatment

Shimano’s SIL-TEC coating helps reduce friction between the chain, cassette and chainrings. A cleaner, lower-friction drivetrain can improve efficiency, reduce noise and extend component life when maintained correctly.

Chromized Roller Link Plate

The chromizing treatment improves durability and helps the chain resist wear under demanding riding conditions such as wet roads, dust, gravel, high torque e-bike use and long-distance training.

Quick-Link Installation

The included Shimano Quick-Link makes installation and removal easier than traditional connecting pins. It is a practical feature for workshops, home mechanics and riders who regularly service their drivetrains.

Strong All-Round Construction

The CN-M8100 is positioned as a durable, performance-level Shimano 12-speed chain that balances price, longevity and shift quality. It is an excellent option for riders who want premium drivetrain performance without paying Dura-Ace / XTR-level pricing.

Chain Length

Supplied Length: 116 links
Final installed length must be cut to suit the bike’s drivetrain setup

Chain Sizing Depends On

Cassette size
Chainring size
Rear derailleur cage length
Frame chainstay length
Drivetrain configuration
E-bike or non-e-bike setup
Suspension movement on MTB applications

Fit Recommendation

Correct chain sizing is important. A chain that is too short can damage the derailleur, while a chain that is too long can cause poor shifting, chain slap and reduced drivetrain control.

For best results, installation should be completed using Shimano’s recommended chain-sizing method and the correct Shimano 12-speed Quick-Link tool.

Best Suited For

Road cyclists using Shimano 12-speed drivetrains
Gravel riders needing reliable shifting on mixed terrain
MTB riders using Shimano Hyperglide+ systems
E-bike riders needing a strong Shimano-compatible chain
Commuters and high-mileage riders replacing a worn chain
Riders wanting to protect their cassette and chainrings from excess wear
Cyclists looking for a quality Shimano drivetrain service or chain replacement

BikeRadar’s August 2021 coverage of Shimano’s latest 12-speed road groupsets highlighted the system’s refined shifting performance and improved drivetrain smoothness. Bicycling’s August 2021 review also praised the updated Shimano 12-speed platform for its quick rear shifting, excellent front shifting and noticeably quiet operation.

While these reviews focus on the complete Shimano drivetrain rather than only the chain, the CN-M8100 plays an important role in that performance because Shimano’s 12-speed shifting relies on precise interaction between the chain, cassette, chainrings and derailleur.

Rider Feedback & Community Sentiment

Rider feedback for the CN-M8100 is generally very positive, particularly from cyclists using complete Shimano 12-speed drivetrains.

Common positive comments include:

Smooth shifting across the cassette
Quiet drivetrain operation when clean and lubricated
Strong value compared with premium race chains
Reliable performance for road, gravel and MTB use
Easy installation with the included Quick-Link
Good durability for regular training and commuting
Noticeable improvement when replacing an old or stretched chain

Many riders choose the CN-M8100 because it offers an excellent balance of performance, price and durability, especially for bikes that see regular weekly kilometres.

Why We Love It at Pedal Passion