SRAM launches mid-priced GX mountain bike drivetrains

CHICAGO (BRAIN) — SRAM is launching a new series of mountain bike drivetrains called GX with pricing that slots in between that of its X5 and X1 groups and which promise wider gear range options than comparable Shimano groups.

The drivetrain groups have a wide range of options: 10- or 11-speed cassettes, single-ring X-Sync or double chainrings, trigger shifters or Grip Shift, standard spacing or the new Boost wide-axle drivetrain spacing, and bottom bracket configurations including PressFit 30, BB30, GXP and PressFit GXP.

SRAM is emphasizing the GX group's wide gear ranges, especially with the 11-speed options that, thanks to its XD cassette driver, allow a 10-tooth smallest cog. The single-ring GX groups are available with a 10-42 cassette and chainring size options from 30-38 teeth, allowing a 420 percent gear range.

The 11-speed double group gear ranges are even wider, with one chainring option (36-24 teeth) and compatibility with the 10-42 cassette producing a 630 percent gear range. By comparison, SRAM says Shimano's widest range is its 11-speed group with a 24-32-42 triple crank, which has a 573 percent gear range.

The GX drivetain group retail prices range from $511 (for a 2x10 group with trigger shifters) to $677 for a 2x11 group with Grip Shift shifters.

The 10-speed GX group cassettes work on a standard cassette body and are available as wide as 11-36. Cranks in the 10-speed group will be available with 38-24 and 36-22 chainring options.

The 10-speed group will be available at retail in June and the 11-speed parts will be available in July.