SRAM Adds Wider Gearing for Force eTap AXS
Images Courtesy of SRAM
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With 12 gears and the option for a 33T front, 33T rear 1:1 gear ratio, the latest generation of SRAM eTAP AXS components had already offered some of the widest road gear ratios available on the market. Now SRAM is offering even wider gearing at the Force level, for epic climbs, all-day adventures and gravel rigs.
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The new wider gearing options consist of four components: A 10-36T cassette, a rear derailleur with a bigger cage for up to 36T cassettes, a 43/30T crankset, and a wide front derailleur that offers clearance for up to 700x45c and 650X2.1″ tires.
Cassette
The new Force XG-1270 10-36T cassette, designed for XDR freehub bodies, is compatible with all 1x and 2x eTap AXS cranksets. It must be used with the new 36t max rear derailleur option.
Rear Derailleur
Along with the new 10-36T cassette, the Force 36t max rear derailleur is compatible with the existing 10-33T and 10-28T cassettes. SRAM says its large X-SYNC pulleys offer excellent durability and efficiency. The max version indicates its 36T cassette compatibility with the words “MAX 36T” on the back of the derailleur near the b-bolt. And going forward all Force AXS derailleurs will be marked either “MAX 33T” or “MAX 36T”. The whole gamut of Force cranksets is compatible with the new derailleur: 46/33T, 48/35T, 50/37T and the new 43/30T.
Crankset
To be compatible with gravel tires up to 700x45c and 650X2.1″, the new 43/30T crankset has a wider stance than other Force crankset options. The Q-factor has been increased by 5mm, pushing the chainline out by 2.5mm. Be aware: this crank size calls for a specific wider bottom bracket, and there is currently no power meter option for this crank size due to a smaller spider bolt size needed to accommodate the smaller chainrings. The wider chainline also necessitates a new wide front derailleur.
Front Derailleur
The new 43/30T crankset requires a Force eTap AXS Wide Front Derailleur to accommodate the wider chainline. Designed for any 2x compatible frameset, this derailleur offers the same features as the regular Force AXS front derailleur, and most importantly works with the same eTap batteries.
The Force AXS wide gearing options are available for purchase now. Visit sram.com for complete compatibility details.