SRAM

Yes: unlike Shimano Di2 (which uses semi-wireless communication between shifters and derailleurs), SRAM AXS is fully wireless. The shifters communicate with the derailleurs via Bluetooth without any data cables. Each derailleur has its own USB-C rechargeable battery: the front battery lasts for around 3 weeks of use, the rear battery for around 4–6 weeks. Main advantage: much simpler installation (no complex internal wiring), and batteries are interchangeable between front and rear. Drawback: two batteries to monitor and recharge separately.

The SRAM AXS ergonomics are radically different from Shimano: right lever = harder gear, left lever = easier gear, both simultaneously = chainring change. This logic is universal regardless of which hand is used, making it very intuitive. The SRAM AXS app allows you to customise the buttons (including bonus buttons on recent shifters), enable automatic synchronised shifting, and monitor battery levels in real time. Holding down the paddles allows you to skip several sprockets at once.

The choice depends mainly on your priorities between fully wireless, ergonomics and single/double chainring versatility. SRAM AXS: fully wireless, intuitive ergonomics, wider range of chainrings/cassettes, single chainring available as standard, DOT hydraulic brakes (less common in workshops). Shimano Di2: semi-wireless (more resistant to interference), ergonomics similar to mechanical systems, mineral oil brakes (simpler and less corrosive), more accessible after-sales service. In terms of pure performance, both are excellent and the differences in long-term testing are minimal.

Approximately 4–6 weeks of regular use for the rear derailleur, 2–4 weeks for the front. The SRAM AXS app displays the battery level of each component. The batteries are interchangeable between the two derailleurs, allowing you to use a charged battery as a backup if one runs out unexpectedly during a ride. A flashing red light on the derailleur indicates a low battery. Handy tip: recharge both batteries before every long ride or trip.

Yes, SRAM still offers mechanical groupsets (Force 2x11, Rival 2x11 and Apex 2x11), but the shift towards electronic systems is clear. The Red eTap AXS is only available in an electronic version. For tighter budgets or those who prefer mechanical systems, the SRAM Rival 2x11 remains a robust option. SRAM has also developed mechanical groupsets for gravel: the Rival XPLR 2x11 with a large rear derailleur compatible with up to 44-tooth cassettes.

Yes, SRAM was founded in Chicago (Illinois, USA) in 1987 by Stan Day. The name SRAM is a contraction of Sachs (a brand it acquired) and Road. Since its inception, SRAM has established itself as Shimano’s main challenger in the global components market. The brand has introduced several major innovations: the mechanical DoubleTap system, the X-Range 12-speed cassette, and the first fully wireless road groupset (eTap, 2015). SRAM also owns Zipp (wheels), Quarq (power meters), Truvativ (cranksets) and RockShox (MTB forks).

No: SRAM 12-speed road cassettes (Red, Force, Rival AXS) require an XDR freehub body, which is different from the Shimano HG. The XDR is the road version of the XD (MTB) freehub body, 1.85 mm shorter than the XD. If your wheels have a Shimano HG freehub body, you will need to purchase an XDR freehub body separately (available for most wheel brands, generally costing between €50 and €80). Exception: SRAM Rival 11-speed cassettes use the standard HG freehub body and are therefore compatible without an adapter.

Yes, without any particular restrictions: SRAM components are compatible with all standard frames. SRAM AXS derailleurs mount on standard derailleur dropouts (direct mount for newer frames). SRAM cranksets use their own DUB or GXP bottom bracket: check the compatibility of the bottom bracket with the frame (BSA, BB386, PF30, etc.). SRAM shifters only control SRAM AXS derailleurs: they are not compatible with Shimano Di2 or Campagnolo EPS derailleurs.

Yes, the XPLR range is SRAM’s gravel line, available in Red, Force and Rival. The XPLR’s key features: extra-wide cassettes (10-44 or 10-46) for significant elevation changes, and a rear derailleur with a long cage. The single-chainring version is particularly popular for gravel riding: a 1x crankset with a 44-46-tooth cassette offers a gear range almost equivalent to a double chainring. All XPLR groupsets are compatible with the AXS wireless system.