SRAM Unleashes XX-1

News

by Chipps July 3, 2012 21

Let the hyperbole commence! SRAM’s press release below…

We say: SRAM has introduced its newest innovation. Now you get even less! While 2×10 XX was its previous top-end group, new XX1 is 1×11… It uses a single ring (28 to 38T) up front on a carbon crank (natch), with a clever tooth profile that claims to do away with the need for a chain device. Out back is a radically redesigned rear mech that only goes sideways, not up and down and there’s a HUGE rear cassette that spans 11 cogs and a massive 10-42 range. This needs a special hub to take it (which SRAM and DT Swiss are making so far). There are Gripshift 11 or trigger shifters available and… that’s about it, right? There are no brakes announced with this group, but we reckon that Avid has something in the works that we’ll doubtless see by the Olympics…

There was a teaser or two released recently and we’ve seen a few secret bits and pieces at recent events too, but it’s finally here, in all the press release glory. Hopefully we’ll get a look at a real one soon…

They say: SRAM XX1 was built with a dedicated 1X drivetrain philosophy—making it simpler, lighter and more durable than any other. No matter where you ride, no matter what you’re up against: SRAM XX1. UNSTOPPABLE.

Driven by a cutting-edge, single-ring carbon crank and seamless component integration, SRAM 1X drivetrain delivers flawless chain management and faster, more precise shifting. But the relationship between XX1 components goes far beyond fitment. From the X-HORIZON™ rear derailleur with TYPE 2 technology to the super wide range 11-speed 10-42T cassette, each component designed to function synergistically (synerwhat? eh? Ed)

XX1 Chainset:

Developed for maximum chain control, each tooth’s thickness is precisely CNC-machined to support the chain’s inner and outer links perfectly. Six available chain rings (28-30-32-34-36-38) allow you to tune your gear range to match your terrain, wheel size and riding style. Each X-SYNC™ chain ring fits a single, universal spider—allowing you to change rings without removing the light-weight carbon crank arm.New tooth profile alternates thickness by inner and outer links, providing maximum chain control

Wide/narrow Q factor cranks for BB30 and GXP Weight: 650 grams with BB (approx.)

X-hORIZON™ REAR DERAILLEUR

We say: It features big jockey wheels on a very offset cage for smooth shifting across massive gears and a clutch system which, combined with the chainring, keeps the chain on the ring without a chain device. Watch the video below for a better idea of how it shifts across the gears… Apparently the pulleys are ‘silent’. We hope they’re waterproof too…

They say: With its “horizontal parallelogram” design and pulley offset, X-HORIZON™ keeps the chain gap constant across all 11 gears, providing fast, precise shifts. By limiting all movement to the horizontal axis, this design is faster, reduces shift force and eliminates ghost shifting. Roller bearing clutch™ technology reduces bounce and chain slap. Cage Lock™ technology makes wheel removal and installation easier than ever before. Paired with the XX1 shifter, the X-HORIZON RD forms the backbone of X-ACTUATION™ technology for unbelievably smooth shifting action.

Large upper pulley offset automatically adjusts chain gap

Straight parallelogram design with horizontal movement reduces shift force and improves drivetrain performance
12T X-SYNC pulley wheels

Weight: 220 grams (approx.)

X-Dome Cassette

Ranging from 10- to 42-teeth, the 11-speed X-DOME™ delivers an incredibly wide gear range while maintaining even, optimized steps. The single-unit cassette combines with the XD™ driver body for a superior connection to the wheel.

11-speeds (10-12-14-16-18-21-24-28-32-36-42). Bearing design and ratchet mechanism steadied by XD driver bodyWheels equipped for XD driver body available from SRAM and DT Swiss (XD driver body is 6-8g lighter)

Weight: 260 grams

So there we go… A 1x11T hard-charging groupset that, judging by the chainrings on offer, should cope with everything from XC racing to more trail and even all mountain use… The only price we’ve seen so far is €1200 or so for the groupset, without brakes… And you’ll need the funny rear hub on your wheel too… Let’s see how they get on!

Out to you lot in October apparently…

And finally, here’s a video that will make that funny looking derailleur make far more sense…