Bike Components That Never Go Rusty! | PVD Coatings Explained

They promise to never rust, last longer, and look incredible. But what's the real story behind those flashy rainbow and gold PVD-coated chains and cassettes? Is it a genuine performance upgrade or just expensive bike bling?
In this GCN Tech deep-dive, we explain the science of Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) coatings, how they're applied in a vacuum chamber, and why they're used on bike components. We also reveal the surprising reality of where the coating is actually applied on a chain—and the crucial inner surfaces where it isn't.

Chapters ⏱️

00:00 - The Promise of PVD Coatings
00:46 - What Exactly Is A PVD Coating?
01:57 - PVD vs. Anodising: What's The Difference?
02:24 - How Are They Applied To A Chain?
03:30 - The Problem: Where The Coating ISN'T
04:06 - The Drawbacks: Lube Adhesion & Wear
05:24 - Do They Last Longer?
05:56 - The Real Benefit: Aesthetics & Protection
06:14 - The Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

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What are your thoughts on PVD components? A worthwhile upgrade for the corrosion resistance and cool factor, or an unnecessary expense? Let us know your experience in the comments below!

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