SRAM Apex Flattop Chain - 12-Speed | 120 Links

What makes the SRAM Apex Flattop Chain worth using on a road bike?

The SRAM Apex Flattop Chain is a 12-speed chain built on the same construction platform as the Force and Rival chains — the distinctive flat outer plate profile that defines the Flattop design is not just aesthetic. It is what enables SRAM's 12-speed road chain to achieve a tighter tooth-to-chain fit across the full cassette range, contributing to more precise shifting and better chain retention at the chainring under load. The polished gray finish on the Apex chain provides a clean look while offering a degree of surface hardness that slows wear relative to unfinished steel. At 120 links, this chain suits standard road and gravel crankset and cassette configurations without the need to remove links for most builds.

This chain is compatible with the full SRAM 12-speed road AXS and mechanical groupset ecosystem — Apex, Rival, Force, and Red in their 12-speed road configurations — using the PowerLock quick link for connection and separation. The chain is not cross-compatible with SRAM Eagle MTB drivetrain components; the Flattop road chain and the Eagle MTB chain share the 12-speed designation but differ in width profile. A PowerLock link is required to connect this chain and is sold separately. Replace when a chain wear indicator reads at or beyond the 0.5% wear threshold to protect cassette and chainring life — a worn chain is the least expensive part of a drivetrain to replace, and letting it go accelerates wear on the cassette teeth that cost significantly more.