SirHamilton

Sram chains are much stronger that Shimano. I even use a KMC chain on 10 speed Shimano that is very strong too. We have had a lot of Shimano chains snap the Ultegra chain more so.

Only 2 brands are worth their true money, Exposure and Lupine. But not being in SA I would not be able to tell you how much they are Sorry

If half your gears shift perfect and the other half not it is more than likely that your mech or mech hanger, more likely hanger, might be ever so slightly bent. This does not mean you need to try and hunt down a new hanger as you can straighten them but you need a tool to do so Hope that helps