The Shimano CN-HG40 chain is one of those products that makes you think: “Why didn’t I buy this earlier?” It’s a small investment that makes a huge difference in how your bike shifts, rolls and feels overall. In this in-depth review and guide, I’ll walk you through everything about this chain — based on real user experiences, official specifications, and the many questions that for years came in via the old VraagAlex website.
Here you’ll find not just facts and tips, but also practical recommendations to get the most out of your purchase. And of course, you’ll never overpay if you use the official AliExpress link: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2wPskxL.
What makes the Shimano CN-HG40 so special?
The Shimano CN-HG40 is a genuine Shimano chain for 6, 7 and 8-speed drivetrains. It’s exactly the same chain you’ll find in many European bike shops, but without the inflated price tag. On AliExpress it costs around €8.19 including VAT and, best of all: there are no extra customs or handling fees on top.
In the past things were very different: you often had to pay extra import charges after delivery. These days AliExpress includes VAT up front, so there are no nasty surprises later. Ordering through the official link https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2wPskxL is therefore not only cheaper, but also completely safe and transparent.
The key features of this chain are:
- 116 links (116L)
- Compatible with 6/7/8-speed systems
- Shimano Hyperglide technology for more precise and smoother shifting
- Customer rating of 4.7/5 based on 105 reviews
Real user reviews
This chain receives a lot of praise, and you can see that immediately in both the sales numbers and the reviews:
- “Time to roll and test this product, arrived as described. Love it.”
- “Excellent.”
- “Looks like good quality, not yet installed, but promising.”
Many buyers specifically mention the price-to-quality ratio. And that makes sense: for less than ten euros you get a chain that in many brick-and-mortar shops easily costs more than twenty.
On top of that, Shimano is known for its reliability. The CN-HG40 is part of the popular Tourney range, a line with a very low return rate and a lot of positive feedback.
When is it time to replace your chain?
A chain wears out faster than most people think. A worn chain can:
- cause chain skipping or poor gear changes
- damage your cassette or chainrings
- make pedalling feel heavier
- increase the risk of problems at higher speeds
If you notice that gear changes feel jerky or that the bike “stumbles” when shifting, there’s a good chance your chain has been on there for too long.
At the price of the CN-HG40 — via https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2wPskxL — replacing it is basically a no-brainer.
Not sure if it will fit your bike?
Good question. The HG40 is compatible with:
- 6-speed bikes
- 7-speed bikes
- 8-speed bikes
- Shimano SIS, Dual SIS or Hyperdrive systems
One buyer asked:
“I have a KMC chain with 3 chainrings in front and 7 cogs at the back. Will this chain fit?”
The answer: Yes, it’s compatible.
It’s still a good idea to have a chain tool handy so you can shorten the chain to the exact length your bike needs.
Why you shouldn’t buy from unknown websites
This same product also appears on obscure websites and in dropshipping stores, often for €25 to €40. That’s a huge markup.
With dropshippers you usually end up paying:
- high shipping costs
- administration or “handling” fees
- no free returns
- little to no buyer protection
That’s why it’s much better to avoid those sites. The official AliExpress link https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2wPskxL is safer, cheaper and completely transparent.
Extra services: VraagAlex helps you with your order
This website was created thanks to the thousands of questions people asked about AliExpress orders via the old VraagAlex site.
That’s why we always say:
“We are not the official AliExpress customer service, but we are happy to help you with any questions about this product or your order.”
If you need additional help, you can also book computer support at home or remotely — ideal if you struggle with ordering, installing or solving issues related to AliExpress:
This project is largely community-driven. If this content helps you, you can support our work with a donation via: https://alexandervandijl.nl/doneer.
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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How many links does the Shimano CN-HG40 have?
116 links (116L).
Is it compatible with my 7-speed bike?
Yes, it’s fully compatible.
Are there any extra customs or handling fees?
No. AliExpress calculates VAT in advance, so there are no unexpected customs charges.
Is this an original Shimano chain?
Yes, this is a genuine Shimano CN-HG40 chain.
When should I replace the chain?
Typically between 1,500 and 3,000 km, depending on maintenance and riding style.
Are returns free?
On AliExpress, in most cases yes. With dropshipping sites, almost never.
Share your experience!
Do you have questions, comments or experience with this chain? Share it in the comments — I’ll be happy to help!
