You're feeling the rubber O rings binding slightly on the steel links. So long as it's well lubricated then that's as good as it gets.

A lightweight racing chain absorbs far less power, but doesn't last as long - like 500 miles and it's severly stretched.
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MC21SP Plaything
BMW F800GS Bumblebee
Triumph 9551 Daytona Big boys toy
FJ1100 Sporting relic
GTS1000 oddball