I like Renold chains. The are "correct" for virtually any vintage (they invented the roller chain in the19th century).
They shift rather well because the plates are chamfered and well finished. Since they are full width they properly engage various chain guides on vintage derailleurs and won't tend to fall between front chainwheels. They are extremely durable.
And Hilary Stone seems to have them for sale regularly at reasonable prices. I think he bought some chain in bulk and packages them up in proper lengths.
Joe Bender-Zanoni
Great Notch, NJ
> i was wondering what an appropriate chain for
> a a bike with a 52-39 chainring and a 13-30
> 5 speed cogset would be. the rear derailleur
> is a long cage crane and it seems to me that a
> lot of vintage chains are made for smaller
> capacities. what was used on touring set-ups
> in the 1970's (and before)? conversely, are there
> chains manufactured now that are appropriate
> for older bikes? everything seems to trend towards
> narrower chains, obviously because of the need
> to make cogsets more compact. as always, any
> help is appreciated, and i remain
> yr obdt svt
> Stephen Fredette
> Hull, Massachusetts