Expert Rating: 8.9 ( 3 Reviews )
8.8
Cycling Weekly
Dec 11, 2023
The SRAM Force eTap AXS Groupset introduces aesthetic improvements and smoother shifting but may raise concerns due to the integrated nature of the chainrings, potentially leading to increased maintenance costs and environmental waste. Its value proposition seems to tilt more toward performance than practicality, impacting the wider market it aims to serve.
8.8
Overall Rating
The SRAM Force eTap AXS Groupset introduces aesthetic improvements and smoother shifting but may raise concerns due to the integrated nature of the chainrings, potentially leading to increased maintenance costs and environmental waste. Its value proposition seems to tilt more toward performance than practicality, impacting the wider market it aims to serve.
10
Shifting
The shifting is smooth, crisp, silent, and accurate, providing a delightful experience during gear changes, particularly the rear shifting.
10
Weight
The groupset has undergone weight reduction, approximately 100 grams lighter compared to the previous version, primarily due to the integration of new chainrings.
8
Value
The groupset offers an updated appearance with aesthetic improvements, but the practicality might suffer due to the one-piece nature of the chainrings, potentially escalating maintenance costs.
9
Design
Aesthetically, the groupset exhibits a sleek, glossy black finish and updated chainrings similar to the Red series, enhancing the overall appearance.
8
Durability
While SRAM claims durability and longevity for the new chainrings, the integrated power meter in the rings raises concerns about cost and wastage upon replacement.
8
Setup and Adjustment
The revamped ergonomics of the hoods provide more comfort and space, allowing a better riding position. However, the reservoir's reduced size might limit hand positions.
8.8
Bike Radar
Dec 11, 2023
The SRAM Force eTap AXS Groupset brings notable enhancements in shifting mechanisms and front derailleur technology, complemented by aesthetic refinements; however, the integrated nature of chainrings raises concerns regarding environmental impact and long-term maintenance expenses. Its incremental upgrades preserve its competitive value proposition while offering a refined riding experience.
8.8
Overall Rating
The SRAM Force eTap AXS Groupset brings notable enhancements in shifting mechanisms and front derailleur technology, complemented by aesthetic refinements; however, the integrated nature of chainrings raises concerns regarding environmental impact and long-term maintenance expenses. Its incremental upgrades preserve its competitive value proposition while offering a refined riding experience.
10
Shifting
Improved front derailleur enhances front shifting, delivering a smooth transition between chainrings, while the rear shifting remains accurate with reduced drivetrain noise in extreme gear combinations.
9
Weight
Incremental upgrades to the groupset without a significant impact on weight, retaining performance enhancements primarily in the shifting mechanisms.
9
Value
Despite minimal technological advancements, the groupset maintains its price point, offering competitive value with the incorporation of Red-level integrated chainrings and aesthetic enhancements.
9
Design
Aesthetically appealing with redesigned logos and a subtle yet striking metallic finish; the integration of Red-derived chainrings adds a premium look to the groupset.
8
Durability
The integrated chainring design raises concerns about environmental impact and maintenance costs, requiring full double chainring replacements, including the power meter, when replaced.
8
Setup and Adjustment
Ergonomic improvements from the Rival series benefit the Force level, enhancing shifter body shapes and button configurations, but limitations in blip port availability and lever shapes persist.
9.2
David Arthur - Just Ride Bikes
Dec 11, 2023
SRAM's latest iteration of the Force eTap AXS Groupset presents nuanced improvements in shifting precision and aesthetics, maintaining competitive pricing while introducing an integrated crankset design, catering to performance-oriented riders but raising concerns regarding adaptability for diverse needs.
9.2
Overall Rating
SRAM's latest iteration of the Force eTap AXS Groupset presents nuanced improvements in shifting precision and aesthetics, maintaining competitive pricing while introducing an integrated crankset design, catering to performance-oriented riders but raising concerns regarding adaptability for diverse needs.
10
Shifting
Smooth and precise shifting performance remains consistent, particularly noticeable during tough conditions and challenging terrains like cobbled roads, while front gear changes are fast and precise.
8.5
Weight
Introduction of an integrated one-piece crankset from the Red series aims to reduce weight and enhance stiffness, though limiting the ability to replace chainrings for different gear ratios.
9
Value
Competitive pricing retains the same cost as the outgoing Force groupset, offering appealing pricing in comparison to Shimano's similar price range, making it a compelling choice in the market.
9
Design
Aesthetically enhanced with unicorn gray finish, small silver logos, and improved hood ergonomics, presenting a more premium appearance compared to its predecessors.
8.5
Durability
While the groupset performs flawlessly in tough conditions, the integrated nature of the crankset raises concerns regarding the inability to replace chainrings, potentially affecting long-term maintenance and adaptability.
10
Setup and Adjustment
Incorporation of wireless blips underneath the handlebars offers convenience, enabling gear changes without altering hand positions, particularly beneficial on rough terrains like cobbled roads.
I’ve thoroughly scrutinized the SRAM Force eTap AXS Groupset in three YouTube videos hosted by experts, and here are the pivotal takeaways that will astonish you. Let me dissect it for you.
Shifting
The SRAM Force eTap AXS Groupset offers a shifting experience that is smooth, crisp, and silent, ensuring delightful gear changes, especially in the rear shifting. The front derailleur has seen significant improvement, providing smooth transitions between chainrings, while the rear shifting remains precise even in extreme gear combinations. This performance is consistent even under tough conditions, such as on cobbled roads, with fast and accurate front gear changes.
Weight
This groupset is about 100 grams lighter compared to its predecessor, largely due to the new chainrings. The upgrades, focused on the shifting mechanisms, have managed to retain performance enhancements without adding significant weight. The inclusion of an integrated one-piece crankset from the Red series reduces weight and boosts stiffness but limits chainring replacement flexibility for different gear ratios.
Value
With its updated look, the groupset presents aesthetic improvements, though the practicality could be impacted by the one-piece chainrings, potentially leading to higher maintenance costs. The groupset maintains its price point, balancing the inclusion of Red-level integrated chainrings and aesthetic upgrades. Its competitive pricing, comparable to Shimano’s offerings, makes it an attractive option in the market.
Design
The groupset sports a sleek, glossy black finish with updated chainrings akin to the Red series, enhancing its visual appeal. It also features a unicorn gray finish with small silver logos and improved hood ergonomics, giving it a more premium look than its predecessors. The integration of Red-derived chainrings adds a touch of luxury.
Durability
Despite SRAM’s claims of durability for the new chainrings, the integration of the power meter into the rings raises concerns about cost and waste upon replacement. The design necessitates full double chainring replacements, including the power meter, thus impacting environmental sustainability and maintenance costs. While it performs admirably in tough conditions, the integrated crankset design may affect long-term maintenance and adaptability.
Setup and Adjustment
The groupset’s hoods have been revamped for enhanced comfort and riding position, although the smaller reservoir size may limit hand positions. Ergonomic improvements from the Rival series, such as shifter body shapes and button configurations, have been incorporated, although there are limitations in blip port availability and lever shapes. The wireless blips under the handlebars provide convenient gear changes without the need to alter hand positions, beneficial on rough terrains.
Overall Notes
The SRAM Force eTap AXS Groupset brings aesthetic and shifting improvements but with concerns over the integrated chainrings leading to higher maintenance costs and environmental implications. It leans more towards performance than practicality, which might affect its appeal to a broader market. The groupset showcases notable enhancements in shifting and front derailleur technology, with aesthetic refinements, yet the integrated nature of chainrings raises issues regarding long-term maintenance and environmental impact. Its value proposition balances incremental upgrades with a refined riding experience, catering more to performance-oriented riders but raising concerns about adaptability for diverse needs.
At Cyclists Authority, we have diligently evaluated and compiled an extensive list of the Best Bike Groupsets. Tailored to suit a range of cycling styles and preferences, whether it be road racing, mountain biking, or leisurely rides, our list serves as a versatile guide. If you’re contemplating an upgrade to your existing setup or embarking on building a new bike, our carefully curated list at Cyclists Authority is an essential tool. It assists in identifying the ideal groupset that perfectly matches your specific cycling requirements and aspirations.
Your perspective is important! Craft a review of the SRAM Force eTap AXS Groupset and communicate your impressions.
John