The Best Chains You will Ever Experience
Fully Optimized Race Chain
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DecaWatts Fully Optimized Race Chains are prepared to deliver maximum drivetrain efficiency and minimum friction from the first pedal stroke, whether used in high-level road racing or demanding off-road competition.
Unlike mass-produced or batch-processed alternatives, each DecaWatts race chain is individually prepared through a controlled, multi-stage optimization process.
Every step is deliberate and measurable, removing uncertainty around critical variables such as mechanical break-in quality, contamination exposure during cleaning, and wax adhesion to the base metal. There is no ambiguity in the preparation process, and no reliance on assumptions.
Before waxing, each chain undergoes a dedicated mechanical break-in cycle. This process smooths and polishes the internal surfaces of the rollers, pins, and plates, reducing asperities that contribute to friction. Mechanical break-in also prepares the metal surfaces to accept wax more effectively, improving bonding consistency and long-term efficiency.
Following break-in, the chain is treated using a high-performance wax formulation selected specifically for the rider’s discipline and expected environmental conditions. Wax selection varies based on factors such as distance, moisture exposure, and contamination load. Detailed information on each wax option is provided at the bottom of this page.
After waxing, each chain undergoes a final break-in cycle before receiving a surface treatment of Molten Speed Wax Race Powder, one of the most advanced friction-reducing chain coatings currently available. This final treatment further lowers friction, enhances drivetrain smoothness, and ensures peak performance under race conditions.
Chains prepared using this wax-and-powder system consistently outperform drip-lubricated chains. The dry, solid wax surface actively resists dirt, dust, and grit accumulation, resulting in lower friction, improved durability, and more stable performance across a wide range of riding environments.
Whether racing on tarmac, gravel, or singletrack, the DecaWatts Fully Optimized Race Chain represents the highest-performance drivetrain option for serious competitors. While extreme conditions such as sustained rain or heavy mud will naturally accelerate wear, wax-treated chains remain cleaner, faster, and more resilient than traditional lubrication methods.
**Please note that the chains offered here include a single-stage mechanical break-in. A two-stage mechanical break-in option is also available and can provide an additional 0.5–1 watt reduction in drivetrain losses. Riders interested in this upgrade are encouraged to contact us for availability and pricing.**
Which Chain Should I Choose?
Which Chain Should I Choose?
Chain Compatibility
- YBN MK120 (12 or 13 speed):
Specifically designed for SRAM 12 or 13 speed FLATTOP and T-type drivetrains only.
- YBN SLA1210 (12-speed):
Universally compatible with all 12 speed drivetrain systems except SRAM FLATTOP and T-type drivetrains.
- YBN SLA110 (11-speed)
Universally compatible with all 11-speed drivetrain systems
- YBN SLA410 (single speed):
Compatible with all single speed 1/8" track or BMX drivetrains.
What Is the Expected Lifespan of a Fully Optimized Race Chain?
What Is the Expected Lifespan of a Fully Optimized Race Chain?
Regardless of the event you are entering and the type of race chain you selected, absolute peak performance is achieved by replacing a race chain after approximately 1,500 km. This typically provides well over a full season of racing.
The coating itself is engineered to be as fast as possible for a single event, with each wax formulation tailored for maximum speed and efficiency over that specific distance and environmental condition only.
After the event, the chain can be returned to DecaWatts to be re-optimized, restored to peak speed, and prepared to race again.
After reaching its 1,500 km race life, the chain may also be retained and used as a training chain. While it is no longer at peak efficiency, it remains perfectly suitable for training.
Can I Use Tru-Tension on a Fully Optimized Race Chain?
Can I Use Tru-Tension on a Fully Optimized Race Chain?
No. Tru-Tension should not be used on a Fully Optimized Race Chain.
Race chains are treated with discipline-specific hot-melt wax and race powders engineered for maximum speed and minimum friction for a single event. Applying a drip lubricant such as Tru-Tension will reduce peak efficiency and potentially introduce small contaminants that compromise the race treatment.
Tru-Tension is an excellent lubricant for training use, but it is not as fast as our race-specific wax formulations, which is why it is not recommended when absolute speed is the priority.
For this reason, race chains should only be re-treated through the DecaWatts race optimization process, ensuring the chain is fully stripped, reconditioned, and returned to its original peak performance state. While you may wax the chain at home after purchase, riders seeking every possible watt of performance are advised to have the chain re-optimized by DecaWatts.
After approximately 1,500 km of race use, the chain may be retired from race duty and used as a training chain, at which point standard maintenance and lubrication protocols may be followed. However, while a chain is designated for race use, no drip lubricants should be applied.
What Wax Is Used on Fully Optimized Race Chains?
What Wax Is Used on Fully Optimized Race Chains?
For Fully Optimized Race Chains, wax selection is based on discipline, environmental conditions, and the specific performance objective.
For all road disciplines, including Speed, Speed 1, and Speed 2, the base wax is Molten Speed Wax, as it consistently tests as the fastest hot-melt wax available. To further reduce friction, this base wax is enhanced with Silca Speed Chips and finished with Molten Speed Wax Race Powder.
For all off-road disciplines, the base wax is Silca Secret Chain Blend. While marginally slower than Molten Speed Wax in controlled dry-condition testing, it delivers superior performance in harsh, wet, and abrasive environments, particularly when paired with Silca Endurance Chips. In Endurance 1 and Endurance 2 configurations, these endurance chips are used to further improve durability and wear resistance.
Regardless of discipline, all DecaWatts Fully Optimized Race Chains receive a final treatment of Molten Speed Wax Race Powder, ensuring maximum performance and minimal friction on race day.
Is Shipping Free?
Is Shipping Free?
Yes! Shipping is completely free any time you spend of 100$.
Race Chain Treatment Levels Overview
| Treatment | Best For | Environment | Efficiency | Estimated Lifespan | Wax Formula | Race Powder Finish | Use Case Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPEED 2 | Max efficiency for short events | Dry Road Only | ★★★★★ (~98%) | ~100 km | 2 Speed Chips | ✅ Yes | Time Trials, Triathlon 70.3 |
| SPEED 1 | Long-course road racing | Dry Road Only | ★★★★½ (~97.8%) | ~200 km | 1 Speed Chip | ✅ Yes | Gran Fondo, Ironman 140.6 |
| STANDARD | Versatile, wet/dry road events | Dry + Wet Road | ★★★★ (~97.4%) | ~400 km (dry) 1 full race (wet) | No Chips | ✅ Yes | Wet road race/ Ironman, mixed weather |
| ENDURANCE 1 | Dry gravel & MTB races | Dry Off-Road | ★★★½ (~97.1%) | ~550 km | 1 Endurance Chip | ✅ Yes | Unbound Gravel, Leadville 100 |
| ENDURANCE 2 | Harsh off-road & extreme weather | Wet, Muddy Off-Road | ★★★ (~96.8%) | 400+ km in harsh conditions | 2 Endurance Chips | ✅ Yes | Rainy MTB races, mud endurance |
From greasy mess to perfectly clean, professional quality chains
You know that one chain that just feels right the moment you ride it?
This is an entire system built around that feeling.
We take chains from a greasy mess to perfectly clean and race-quality, every time.
No black hands. No noise. No friction stealing your watts.
Ride any DecaWatts chain and feel what it’s like when your drivetrain finally disappears beneath you.
Once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever rode any other way.
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Prepared With Purpose
Built by cyclists, for cyclists, DecaWatts prepares chains in small batches using a precise, repeatable process; because consistency, cleanliness, and performance should never be left to chance.
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Chain Performance Starts With Wax
Did you know wax keeps your chain cleaner and lasting longer?
Did you know it repels dirt instead of attracting it?
Did you know a waxed chain runs quieter and more efficiently?
That’s why we use wax: it’s simply better.
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20,000 km Per Chain!?!
Yes, you read that right. Our waxed chains last up to 10× longer than oil-lubed chains, with lifespan reaching up to 20,000 km. Less wear, fewer replacements, and a drivetrain that keeps performing ride after ride.
That’s what happens when chain maintenance is done right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DecaWatts subscription really worth the cost?
Yes, most riders save money over time.
While the upfront cost may seem higher than traditional chain lube or occasional shop visits, the DecaWatts system dramatically reduces drivetrain wear. By keeping your chain fully decontaminated and properly waxed every month, chains last significantly longer and, more importantly, so do cassettes and chainrings, which are far more expensive to replace.
Many customers find that avoiding even one cassette or chainring replacement more than offsets the cost of the subscription. Add in fewer shop visits, no cleaning supplies, no tools, and no time spent on maintenance, and the savings become clear.
In short: you’re not just paying for chain care; you’re paying to replace parts less often, ride a better-performing bike, and avoid unnecessary maintenance costs.
If I already wax my chain at home, will I still see a performance benefit from your subscription?
Yes, unequivocally.
Even if you already wax your chain at home, our subscription will still make a meaningful difference. Each chain we service goes through over two hours of full decontamination and professional re-waxing, allowing us to achieve a level of precision, cleanliness, and consistency that simply isn’t possible at home or at a typical bike shop. Every trace of old wax, grease, and contamination is removed before fresh wax is applied, ensuring the chain is truly reset each time.
Beyond performance, the convenience is unmatched. You don’t need to strip, clean, heat wax, or manage timing; we handle everything for you. This controlled process not only delivers consistently low friction and quiet operation, but also allows chains to last significantly longer, because they are fully decontaminated before every single re-waxing cycle.
In short: better results, longer chain life, and zero effort on your part.
Can I use my current chain, or do I need to purchase new chains?
To deliver the best possible results, all DecaWatts customers begin with a Starter Bundle that includes brand-new, professionally waxed chains. Starting from new allows us to control the process from day one; ensuring complete decontamination, consistent waxing, and optimal performance throughout the life of the chain.
When rotated through the subscription, these chains are designed to last a combined total of up to 50,000 km, meaning they are very likely the last chains your bike will need for a long time. This approach ensures you experience the full benefits of the DecaWatts system: a cleaner, quieter drivetrain, longer component life, and consistently low friction.
We require the Starter Bundle so every customer gets the best possible experience from the subscription and the waxing process; without compromises.
Can I Pause My Subscription?
Yes, you can cancel or pause your subscription anytime
How long will it take to get my chain back after I send it in?
In most cases, your chain is back with you within three weeks, well before it’s time to swap again.