SRAM eTap AXS Updates Mean Big Gearing Expansion

Today SRAM unveils a massive new eTap AXS road gearing system with incredible range and a sub-1:1 ratio. Big paved and gravel climbs have met their match.

SRAM’s eTap AXS has been a resounding success. The brand’s top-of-the-line RED groupset has gracefully moved the American-born-and-bred company to the tip of the spear for high-end road and gravel bike components.

And with the new upgrades, SRAM Force eTap AXS offers the same wireless, programmable shifting at a more affordable price point. Here’s everything you need to know.

SRAM RED eTap AXS: 36T Max Rear Derailleur

The current RED eTap AXS rear derailleur will clear a 33-tooth cassette. The new addition announced today will clear a whopping 36-tooth cassette, made possible by a length change in the derailleur’s body near the B-bolt.

This massive chain-management capacity expands the gearing range of both double- and single-chainring setups.

With this new derailleur’s added capacity and its compatibility with 46/33 chainrings and 10-36T cassette, a 502% gear range is now a reality, with a low, sub-1:1 gear ratio of 0.92. A 48/53T chainrings render a 494% gear range and a low ratio of 0.97.

These new gearing range potentials add pedaling force and cadence options to improve both road and gravel performance — and enjoyment.

SRAM RED eTap AXS: Other Features

The new RED eTap AXS 36T Max rear derailleur maintains the incredible Orbit chain-management system. I’m always amazed by the silicone fluid-damped system’s ability to control the chain slack on my gravel bike when bombing the dirt roads in my area.

Even square-edged potholes can’t induce chain slap against my chainstay. So I don’t even bother with a protector anymore. The large X-SYNC pulleys and ceramic bearings of the current RED derailleur carry over, as well as the eTap battery.

SRAM Ecosystem Compatibility

The new RED eTap AXS 36T Max rear derailleur is only compatible with other SRAM AXS components. It won’t work with SRAM eTap 11-speed parts. But it’s compatible with all AXS front derailleurs, drop bar shifters, BlipBoxes, and controllers.

The new derailleur maintains all the functionality delivered through the SRAM AXS app, including personalization of shifting modes and monitoring AXS system performance and readiness. The app also ensures that all component firmware remains current.

SRAM Force AXS XG-1270 10-36T Cassette

The only currently available 10-36T cassette is a Force version, the AXS AG-1270. Today, SRAM announced that it has updated these cassettes with a new nickel-chrome finish, available sometime this month.

The SRAM RED eTap AXS 36T Max rear derailleur is available now for $710. For more information, visit SRAM.com. The derailleur will come with a 2-year warranty.

Check Price at BackcountryCheck Price at Competitive Cyclist