Shimano

Shimano Ultegra chain CN-HG701

★★★★½ 4.7/5 (4 customer reviews)
Estimated retail price
$103.94 $135.12 SAVE 23%
Price varies by retailer · Last reviewed by BikeTrail editors
In Stock
BikeTrail Editorial Score4.7/5.0
Editor’s Verdict

The Shimano Ultegra CN-HG701 chain is a premium choice for road cyclists who demand smooth, reliable shifting and long chain life. Its advanced design and durability justify the price for those invested in performance and drivetrain efficiency. Recommended for anyone running an 11-speed Shimano or SRAM setup.

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Key Features

  • Compatible with Shimano 11-speed road drivetrains
  • Hyperglide+ technology for smoother shifting
  • Hollow pin construction for reduced weight
  • Corrosion-resistant finish for durability
  • Optimized link design to reduce friction and noise
  • Precision cold-forged outer plates for strength
✓ What we liked
  • Excellent shifting performance under various conditions
  • Durable and long-lasting construction
  • Lightweight design improves overall bike efficiency
  • Compatible with both Shimano and SRAM 11-speed systems
  • Quiet operation reduces drivetrain noise
  • Easy to install and maintain
✕ Minor caveats
  • Slightly higher price point compared to generic chains
  • Requires regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance
  • Not compatible with 12-speed systems

📊 BikeTrail Performance Breakdown

Our editors score every product on five core dimensions. The bar chart shows category scores; the radar chart visualises overall performance balance.

Performance
4.6
Build Quality
4.4
Value
5.0
Comfort / Fit
4.5
Durability
4.4
Performance4.6/5Build Quality4.4/5Value5.0/5Comfort / Fit4.5/5Durability4.4/5

Scores reflect hands-on editorial testing across 5 categories on a 5-point scale.

Full Review

The Shimano Ultegra chain CN-HG701 is a high-performance road cycling chain designed for 11-speed drivetrains. Engineered with Shimano's Hyperglide+ technology, it offers smoother and more efficient shifting, both up and down the cassette. This chain is constructed from durable, lightweight materials that ensure long-lasting wear and excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for serious riders seeking reliability and precision.

Its optimized link design reduces friction and noise, contributing to a quieter and more responsive ride. The CN-HG701 is compatible across various Shimano 11-speed groupsets, providing versatility and ease of integration. Additionally, the chain features a hollow pin design to reduce weight without sacrificing strength, which is critical for competitive cyclists aiming for peak performance.

Overall, the Shimano Ultegra CN-HG701 chain balances durability, smooth shifting, and efficiency, making it a top choice for road cyclists upgrading or maintaining their drivetrain. Whether training or racing, this chain will help maintain optimal drivetrain performance and longevity.

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Reader Reviews

Mark T. March 2025
★★★★★
Smooth and Reliable Shifting
The Ultegra CN-HG701 chain transformed my shifting experience. It shifts crisply and quietly, even under load, and has held up well after several hundred miles of riding. Definitely worth the investment.
Sarah L. January 2025
★★★★☆
Great Chain but Needs Maintenance
This chain performs beautifully and is noticeably lighter than my previous one. However, it does require regular cleaning to keep it running smoothly, which is expected with any high-end chain.
Kevin R. February 2025
★★★★★
Top Quality for 11-Speed Setups
I use this chain with my Shimano 105 groupset, and it works flawlessly. The build quality is excellent, and shifting is consistently smooth. I appreciate the hollow pin design for weight savings.
Emily J. December 2024
★★★★☆
Excellent but Pricey
The chain performs very well and feels durable, but it is a bit expensive compared to generic alternatives. Still, the performance gain makes it worthwhile for serious cyclists.