Latest Evaluation of Shadow Interlock V2 Chain (2025)
Hopping onto the best BMX chain game-changer?
Yeah, buddy! Either you're about to drop some cash on the Interlock, or you're already grooving on its excellent performance. I've been straddling that bad boy for a whopping 15 years, and lemme tell you, I've only gone through three to four chains!
Listen up, because back in the day, turning a pedal was a right pain in the neck. Gosh, I used to despise chaining woes. Remember those weak 410 chains that were like invisible red flags saying, "Break me now"? I even experimented with moped chains! They held up, yet they did so much damage to my sprocket and rear cog. I was stuck between a rock and a hard place!
Lucky for me, the Interlock came through like a breath of fresh air! Light-as-a-feather but built like a tank, bitches just couldn't resist this chain. It put an end to my days of frustration and constant repairs. Still healed up from a knee injury and a surgery? This bad boy has taken a beating and kept on ticking!
When I initially laid eyes on the Interlock, I knew I just had to have it. It took some time, but this half-link chain revolution became the bee's knees in the BMX world (and bicycle world, too!) Back then, good things didn't just happen overnight, but they did for me when I first threw the Shadow's Interlock on my bike! NO MORE BROKEN CHAIN, BABY! I was flabbergasted!
I couldn't help but wonder why the hell anyone else was still taking a chance with those subpar chains! I knew this mother of all chains was going to be my ride for life! And guess what? When they released the V2 version, I was all over that like fly on shit! Shadow kept innovating and eventually unleashed the Supreme chain!
Where the Interlock V2 boasts an insane 1,300-kilogram tensile strength, the Supreme version ups the ante with a whopping 1,500 kilograms! Impressively, it sports forged plates—something the bike industry has never seen before! As a result, it doesn't even matter whether you ride with or without a sprocket guard. Seriously, it's designed to handle the harshest of environments!
Man, I rode the Interlock V2 for a decade without a guard. I switched to a guarded sprocket a few years ago. I've been taking the punches, and this chain just keeps on giving!
The Lowdown on the Interlock V2 and Supreme Chain
Interlock V2 Chain Specifications
Now, it comes in multiple colors, and it boasts 98 links in total. As for its pins, they've got this strong mushroomed thing happening. Weighing in at 11.3 ounces (with 72 links), it's fairly lightweight yet robust as hell. Oh, and did I mention they toss in an extra master link for good measure? Just in case, ya know?! All of this will only set you back $37.99.
Supreme Chain Specifications
The Supreme edition is slick black and silver, with 98 links, super-wide mushroomed pins, hardened rollers, and, of course, extra-wide links. Expect it to weigh 11.1 ounces with 72 links. A sturdy extra master link has also been included, just in case. Its compatibility is 8T driver and up. It'll hit your wallet for $64.99.
A quick word of advice—when you cop the Shadow's Interlock V2 or Supreme chain, make sure you're getting the 1/8" version, as it's also available in 3/32".
How to Install a Fucking Awesome Shadow Conspiracy Interlock Chain
First things first: install that shit correctly! This chain is world's apart from your run-of-the-mill full link BMX chain, so pay close attention. Install it on the rotating direction when pedaling forward, where the wider end of the link faces.
To connect it, you're gonna need a BMX chain breaker tool. If you ain't got one yet, jesus christ, pick up a BMX multi-tool. It's a no-brainer, 'cause it comes with a chain breaker anyway.
How to Keep your Chain Lasting a Freaking Long Time
Here's another friendly reminder: installing a chain ain't a rub-it-and-forget-it kind of job! To maintain that glorious chain, break out the degreaser, or take off the chain to soak it in it. Brush off stubborn bits, then rinse with clean water. Dry lube is great since it doesn't attract as much dirt and easily washes off. But if you fancy wet lube, it'll last longer in the dirt department.
Now and then, give your chain a thorough deep cleaning. Check for bent or damaged links and replace them as needed. Keep a few spare links on you so you can whip it out if you break a chain during your session. By staying on top of your chain's cleanliness and maintenance, you'll keep it far away from the wack-ass world of broken chains!
Conclusion: Pedal Like there's No Tomorrow!
Alright, I'll admit it – there are cheaper half-link BMX chains lurking around the market. But we all know that when it comes to buying high-quality products, sometimes the price tag just doesn't cut it. Truth is, you'll end up spending less in the long run with either the Interlock V2 or the Supreme.
In fact, I'll put it to you straight: if you're not the roughest rider out there, then the V2 will work just fine for you. It's been my baby for the past few years without a single problem! But if you want to ride with 110% confidence, go for Supreme. It looks better, in my humble opinion.
Thanks for making the Interlock chains, Shadow. If only you'd come out with a cure for flat tires while you were at it—now THAT would set the world on fire!
Now, get out there and break a sweat, motherfucker!
Whether you're adoring the exceptional performance of the Interlock or investing in its V2 or Supreme versions, you're sure to dominate the BMX world. These chains have transformed sports mechanics for the better, eradicating broken chains from your worries.