The Connex 12WAX is a pre-waxed 12-speed chain from the well-regarded German manufacturer, designed to enhance performance, reduce wear, and keep your drivetrain cleaner.
While it delivers impressive shifting quality comparable to Shimano’s offerings, its factory wax coating falls short in durability compared to other hot-wax treatments.
Wax-based lubricants are gaining popularity for good reason: they boost efficiency, extend component life, and attract less dirt than traditional wet lubes. The Connex 12WAX is a nickel-plated steel chain compatible with Shimano, Campagnolo, and SRAM 12-speed mountain groupsets—though not with SRAM’s 12-speed flat-top road or T-Type systems.
It’s offered in 118- and 126-link versions, with claimed weights of 268g and 285g respectively. Our 118-link sample weighed exactly 267g. Once cut to length, it tipped the scales at 240g—slightly heavier than the 229g Shimano Dura-Ace 9100 chain it replaced.
Quick-Link Convenience
Each chain includes a Connex Link quick connector, which requires no tools and can be reused indefinitely—a major perk for frequent hot-wax users. The link opens and closes easily with a simple twist, making chain removal and reinstallation a hassle-free experience.
No Pre-Treatment Needed
Unlike standard chains that require thorough degreasing before initial waxing, the 12WAX comes pre-waxed and ready to install. The wax is dry and well-penetrated straight out of the box.
Performance & Durability
Paired with a Shimano 9100 cassette and Rotor chainrings, the chain exhibited no slippage and delivered crisp, reliable shifting—on par with the Shimano 9100 chain. However, noise became noticeable after just 10 km. After two rides totaling 209 km (94 km dry, 115 km on damp roads), the factory wax had largely worn off, resulting in a dry, noisy chain. Black residue also built up on outer links—unusual for a wax-based product.
While the chain was tested in mixed conditions including light rain, the factory wax’s durability didn’t meet expectations, especially compared to aftermarket hot waxes like Molten Speed Wax or Silca Secret Chain Wax.
Cleaning was straightforward: immersing the chain in hot water melted the wax away and removed debris. When rewaxed with Finish Line Halo or Optimize Graphite Hot Wax, the chain performed quietly and stayed cleaner across varying conditions.
On the plus side, the Connex chain itself proved robust over 1,000 km of testing, with no mechanical issues. The quick-link held securely through multiple removals and rewaxing cycles.
Value Proposition
Priced at £89.99 (approx. $110 / RMB 840), the Connex 12WAX is significantly more expensive than a Shimano 9100 chain (£59.99) and even some pre-waxed alternatives like the KMC X12 (£42.99). That said, if you factor in the cost and effort of degreasing and waxing a conventional chain yourself—or paying a third-party service to do it—the Connex offers reasonable convenience. For example, a pre-waxed Shimano 9100 chain from Silca costs £125, while Ceramicspeed’s UFO optimized chain sells for £159.99.
Verdict
The Connex 12WAX delivers excellent shifting performance and convenience right out of the box, thanks to its tool-free quick-link and no-preparation-required design. However, the factory wax coating lacks longevity and cleanliness compared to dedicated hot-wax treatments.
This chain is best suited for riders who value durability and convenience over outright value, and who don’t mind rewaxing soon after purchase to unlock its full potential. If you’re willing to apply a quality hot wax post-purchase, the Connex 12WAX becomes a strong contender—straight from the start.
