The CLOUD CH-A1-MINI chain guide embodies the minimalist and efficient approach to modern chain retention. Designed for single-chainring 1X drivetrains, this ultra-lightweight 37-gram guide mounts to standardized ISCG-05 mounting points and provides reliable protection against derailments, without the weight or complexity of complete systems. Its forged AL6066-T6 alloy body and reinforced plastic upper guard ensure robustness and quiet operation, even in the most demanding sections.

Architecture and technical design

The CH-A1-MINI adopts a "top guide only" philosophy particularly popular in modern Trail and Enduro. The main body is machined from a forged AL6066-T6 aluminum block, an alloy offering an excellent strength-to-weight ratio and optimal structural rigidity. The technical plastic upper guard ensures precise chain guidance while absorbing vibrations, thereby reducing noise and premature wear. The system mounts directly to the three threaded ISCG-05 tabs (55 mm bolt circle diameter), the universal standard for modern MTB frames equipped for chain retention.

Compatibility and versatility

• Chainring range: Compatible with chainrings from 30 to 38 teeth, covering virtually all current Trail, Enduro and All-Mountain configurations.
• ISCG-05 standard: Standardized mounting ensuring compatibility with all frames equipped with this standard (Specialized, Trek, Santa Cruz, Giant, Canyon, etc.).
• 1X drivetrains: Optimized for modern single-chainring groups (SRAM Eagle, Shimano 12-speed, etc.), where the lower guard is no longer necessary thanks to Narrow-Wide chainrings.
• Boost and Super Boost compatible chainline: Adapts to modern chainlines thanks to the included shim system.

Advantages of minimalist design

• Featherweight: At only 37 grams (hardware not included), this guide is one of the lightest on the market in its category, ideal for riders concerned with weight-to-protection ratio.
• Simplified installation: Quick mounting to ISCG-05 tabs without crankset removal or complex adjustment, unlike full dual-roller guides.
• Minimal maintenance: Absence of lower roller means fewer moving parts, less wear and durable quiet operation.
• Oval chainring compatibility: The upper guard-only design facilitates use with oval chainrings (Absolute Black, Wolf Tooth, etc.).

Recommended applications

The CH-A1-MINI finds its place on modern Trail and Enduro MTBs equipped with 1X drivetrains and 120 to 170 mm of travel. It perfectly suits riders seeking anti-derailment security without compromising on weight, particularly in Enduro competition, on technical trails or during demanding rides where every derailment can be costly. Frames originally equipped with ISCG-05 tabs (typically Enduro, aggressive Trail and DH models) benefit from direct mounting without adapter.

Contents and installation

The chain guide comes with the mounting hardware and adjustment spacers necessary to adapt to different chainline configurations and frame spacing. Installation requires only an Allen key and can be completed in a few minutes, even without prior experience. Height adjustment is simply done by positioning the upper guard approximately 3-5 mm above the chain in the high position on the chainring.