SRAM's Force and Rival AXS Groupsets get a Major Upgrade
SRAM revamps Force and Rival groupsets, aligning them with Red's performance; introduces a 1x13-speed XPLR option; and unleashes a vibrant purple chain across the entire product line.
It's clear that SRAM isn't messing around when it comes to their Force and Rival AXS groupsets. The latest updates bring these options much closer to the top-tier Red AXS, both in terms of technology and design. Here's what you need to know about the revamped Force and Rival AXS offerings.
The Braking Revolution
If there's one thing that sets the Red AXS apart from its counterparts, it's the braking performance. But now, SRAM is leveling the playing field with Force and Rival. The new braking system on these groupsets shares many of the same characteristics as Red, such as stiffer calipers and a higher brake pivot, resulting in effortless, one-finger braking whether you're in the hoods or drops.
The reduction in effort required for braking is massive, with Rival levers now requiring 80% less effort compared to the previous model. Transferring from Red to Force might still offer a slight edge, but the difference has notably diminished.
Streamlined Shifting
Shimano's 105 groupset has traditionally relished the advantage of trickle-down technology, with Dura-Ace and Ultegra benefits find their way down. However, SRAM's Force and Rival AXS are giving them a run for their money.
The new shifters on Force and Rival closely resemble those of the Red AXS, boasting carbon shift levers and bonus buttons for added functionality. Customization is achievable through the app, offering ANT+ device control or an auxiliary shift option. While Rival doesn't receive the bonus buttons, it still offers improved ergonomics and tactile control surfaces.
Gravel-Ready Groupsets
To cater to the growing gravel riding community, SRAM has launched the Force XPLR AXS and Rival XPLR AXS. This 13-speed drive chain system offers a single chainring alongside an XPLR rear derailleur and 10-46t cassette, optimized for gravel riding. The full-mount design ensures precise shifting and ease of installation, even accounting for the additional gear.
Both chainsets come in various size options, with Force also offering aero chainrings. Power meter options are available for both, maintaining the wide gear range SRAM is known for in their gravel groupsets.
In essence, SRAM has managed to bridge the gap between its top-tier Red AXS and its more affordable options, Force and Rival. While the premium touches and machining remain mostly exclusive to Red, these updated groupsets boast improved braking performance, shifting technology, and design elements at more accessible price points.
[1] (https://bikeradar.com/reviews/sram-force-axs-12-speed-groupset/)[2] (https://www.cyclingweekly.com/news/bikes/sram-force-axs-reviews-first-riders-impressions-398663)[3] (https://www.bikeradar.com/reviews/sram-rival-axs-12-speed-groupset/)[4] (https://www.road.cc/content/review/276427-sram-force-1-13-speed-gravel-groupset-first-ride)[5] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SRAM_Red_AXS)
The updated Force and Rival AXS groupsets from SRAM now feature braking systems similar to the Red AXS, promising effortless one-finger braking for both hoods and drops, with Rival levers requiring 80% less effort compared to the previous model.
SRAM's Force and Rival AXS groupsets are challenging Shimano's 105 with the introduction of new shifters that closely resemble those of the Red AXS, offering carbon shift levers, customization options, and improved ergonomics, while Rival still delivers tactile control surfaces.
