Shimano Chain Compatibility for Road, MTB, and Hybrid Bikes

Shimano Chain Compatibility Is Determined by “3 Key Points”

Shimano chain and drivetrain compatibility is determined by the following three key points:

1. Shifting Technology
2. Chain Specification
3. Number of Speeds

The hierarchy starts with shifting technology. Within that, there are specific chain standards. Finally, the compatible chain is chosen based on the number of speeds.

In addition, Shimano chains come in different grades within the same compatibility group, which means variations in rust resistance and finish quality depending on the grade.

Chains for HYPERGLIDE Shifting Systems

The mainstream shifting technology for Shimano’s sports bikes is “HYPERGLIDE.” Chains compatible with HYPERGLIDE typically have model numbers starting with “CN-HGXXX-YY.”

There are three major types of HG chains:

1. HG Chain Series
2. HG-X Chain Series
3. HYPERGLIDE+ HG Chain Series

More specifically, the following types exist:

1. HG 12-speed Chains (HYPERGLIDE+ HG Chains)¹
2. HG-X11 Chains²
3. HG-X Chains³
4. HG Road 10-speed Chains⁴
5. HG 9-speed Chains
6. HG 8/7/6-speed Chains

Here’s a summary:

The following table shows which chain standards are used for road and MTB components:

In general, “chain compatibility = number of speeds” is the rule of thumb. So, as long as you match the number of speeds on your bike, you’re good to go. However, 10-speed setups require special attention.

This is because there are two types of 10-speed compatibility: HG-X Chains and HG Road 10-speed Chains.

Shimano’s 10-speed systems are divided into “New 10-speed” and “Old 10-speed,” which differ in compatibility, making parts selection a bit more complex — and this applies to chains too.

Note: As we’ll cover later, the HG-X 11-speed chains are mutually compatible with the “LINKGLIDE” standard.

Chains for LINKGLIDE Shifting Systems

Introduced in 2023, the “LINKGLIDE” shifting technology powers the new “CUES” line and Shimano’s e-bike components. Compatible chains start with the prefix “LG.”

LINKGLIDE supports 9, 10, and 11-speed drivetrains. However, unlike HYPERGLIDE, LINKGLIDE uses a single chain type across all speeds, meaning there’s currently just one chain compatibility standard for LINKGLIDE.

As of 2024, only one LG chain model exists: CN-LG500. This simplifies selection—just pick the LG chain.

That said, according to Shimano’s official compatibility chart for LG chains⁵, the following three HG-X 11-speed chains are listed as LINKGLIDE compatible:

1. CN-HG901-11
2. CN-HG701-11
3. CN-HG601-11

Conversely, the CN-LG500 is also listed as compatible in the 11-speed rear shifting compatibility chart for road bikes⁶.
This suggests that LINKGLIDE chains are functionally equivalent to HG-X 11-speed chains.