SRAM RED eTap AXS 1x Hydraulic Disc Aero Group

For years, time trial and tri bikes have been an exercise in compromise. In order to be in the most-aero position possible, controls were limited in functionality. With cables, brakes didn’t feel as good, and shifting was always a half step slower than what it had to be. While hydraulic disc brakes help, the wireless shifting option from SRAM ensured proper shifting in every gear, regardless of cable routing. The new SRAM RED eTap AXS 1x Hydraulic Disc Aero groupset promises superior braking, shifting, and with its 1x drivetrain, improved aerodynamics too.

Check out our in-depth review on SRAM RED eTap AXS HERE

A key advantage of eTap® is that Blip shift buttons can be placed on both the aero extensions and base bar. With the ability to shift on the base bar, triathletes can save time getting up to speed after exiting the transition area and execute shifts when riding through tight corners, descending steep roads that require braking, or when climbing out of the saddle. While you can place Blips anywhere you want them on the base bar using the supplied double stick tape, some who prefer shifting with their thumbs typically place Blips on the inboard side of the base bar grips, just behind the brake lever mounting point.

Another important aspect of the new eTap AXS ecosystem is the addition of SRAM AXSTM app. Simply connect your phone to your AXS components, which allows riders to see battery status, change component behavior, personalize controls, get maintenance reminders, and update firmware. Want to use your eTap AXS controllers with a Eagle AXS drivetrain and Reverb AXS dropper seatpost? The AXSTM app allows you to do that.

Derailleurs have been completely updated. The rear derailleur is now just one choice to cover 10-26t, 10-28t, and 10-33t cassette options. This single derailleur features now features a quicker motor and larger cage pulleys for faster shifts, and SRAM’s Orbit damper. Essentially a low-friction clutch, this fluid damper helps quell chain slap over rough roads, while maintaining low weight.

SRAM 1x chainrings have led the pack with their narrow-wide tooth profile, long wear, and quiet performance. While all SRAM RED eTap AXS 2x chainrings are all direct-mount, 1x chainrings use a direct mount interface or four-bolt spider depending on chainring size.

This bodes well for SRAM’s new power meter options, which are largely built into the new direct mount chainrings. SRAM claims accuracy within +/-1.5% with power measured from both left and right legs. They also claim no need for recalibration when swapping chainrings, and the direct mount aero chainrings offer improved aerodynamics over a standard crank-based power meter. 48 and 50t chainring options are fully integrated power into a direct mount aero chainring.

The SRAM RED eTap AXS 1x Hydraulic Disc Aero Group includes the rear derailleur, controls, brake calipers, rotors, crankset, bottom bracket, cassette, chain, batteries and charger. With choices regarding crankset selection, chainring size, crank arm length, cassette size, and bottom bracket standard, there are a number of options to suit your needs on your road bike, gravel bike, or time-trial bike. Please contact us regarding the specifics you are looking for and we will take care of you.

Have any questions about SRAM RED eTap AXS 1x Hydraulic Disc Aero groupset? Send us an email any time to info@contenderbicycles.com, or give us a call during business hours.