MRP AMg V2 chain guide review
July 1st, 2015
By Andrew Dodd in Reviews
Full Product Name – MRP AMg V2 All Mountain Guide
Retail Price – £99.99
Available From – Ison Distribution
Additional chain security
Many riders rely on the chain retention on offer from the many retaining chain rings on the market – most of which do an admirable job. But some times a little extra security is a good idea as the bare chain ring can be a bit exposed.
Racers often want an upper guide as a just-in-case point of chain security, and many riders like the chain ring protection offered by bash guards.
The AMg V2 chain guide offers both in a minimal, streamlined package that weighs just 120grams in the Alloy 32-38tooth size.
The AMg is pretty much a hybrid chain guide, pairing up the simplistic 1x upper guide with the XCG bash guard in to a sleek unit that will suit many riders.
These are the main features:
- Different back plate design from the G3 to save weight, and increase clearance around pivots
- New integrated smooth skid plate design for less mud build up
- New co-mould TR upper guide with rubber insert for quieter function
- New sizes going as low as 26T, and as big as 38T
- Carbon and Alloy back plates available
- ISCG and ISCG 05 mounts
Silent treatment
Both the upper guide and bash plate are mounted on an alloy back plate, which mounts using ISCG chain guide mounts. The upper guide on the AMg V2 chain guide is very minimal compared to many other guides out there – it’s just enough to keep your chain on track. A single 4mm Allen bolt adjusts the upper guide up to 38t, and down to 32t on the model we tested – a smaller 26-32t version is also available.
The upper guide is easily set up thanks to MRP supplying enough washers to get your spacing right, and once set up doesn’t rub in any gear – even on an 11 speed set up.
We like that MRP have lined the upper guide with rubber, so if the chain does move around or rub the noise is dramatically reduced from the old style units made just from the harder nylon material.
Bash Protection
Mounted to the back plate by two bolts is the taco style bash guard, which not only stops the chain ring from taking a hit – but allows the bike to slide over obstacles. This is especially useful on longer geometry bikes as the centre of the bike can get close to grounding out on a frequent basis. On the first day using this guide I went out to find rock steps and awkward terrain, and gave it a few hard clouts. There was no damage to the guide or chain ring, and it allows the bike to slide over the obstacle without it digging in – which can happen with chain rings on their own.
I’ve had the AMg V2 on the bike for a few months now. It still runs completely silent and I’ve had no issues dropping the chain – granted I’ve been using a retaining chain ring, but the combination of both offers great security and will suit 140-170mm travel bikes well. You could possibly get away with this guide on a down hill bike, but really you’re better off going for something heavier duty – like MRP’s G3 as you’ll get the maximum protection and security.
We say
Whilst retaining chain rings are enough for many riders, having that little extra protection and security is a no brainer. For an extra 120grams on your pride and joy, the AMg V2 guide isn’t even noticeable. It’s totally silent, and you’ll be thankful for it when a few sump outs don’t mangle your chain ring. Also, unlike heavier duty chain guides, the AMg V2 is very subtle and won’t ruin the clean lines of your bike.
An excellent bit of kit.