SRAM has launched the latest version of its RED XPLR AXS groupset which sees the addition of one extra sprocket and one less derailleur hanger. Alongside the update to SRAM's best gravel groupset, Zipp has announced the release of two gravel-specific 303 XPLR wheelsets and a new handlebar.
It was over a year ago SRAM made its checkmate move on the MTB derailleur hanger with the launch of its new direct-mount T-Type Transmission drivetrain. Since then the tech has been filtering through SRAM's MTB drivetrains, including the recently introduced S-1000 Eagle Transmission that will be offered as an OEM spec part of lower-cost production bikes. SRAM has also been busy working on its road tech too, releasing the latest version of its flagship road groupset earlier this year. So it was only a matter of time before its gravel groupsets got an update. It was spotted at Unbound Gravel but now SRAM has officially lifted the lid on the latest SRAM RED XPLR AXS.
One less hanger and one extra sprocket
The big update revolves around the new RED XPLR AXS rear derailleur. It features a T-Type hangerless design, a MTB-inspired spring clutch, and the number of gears has been increased from 12 to 13-speed.
We aren't surprised that SRAM's RED XPLR AXS rear derailleur has been updated to the T-Type system. T-Type is claimed to offer more precise shifting with increased reliability and has been quickly implemented throughout SRAM's MTB range. The system uses a direct mount configuration that not only does away with the derailleur hanger but also B and Limit adjustment, simplifying setup and eliminating the need for adjustment. To run the new T-Type groupset, your frame will need to be compatible with the UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger) standard.
The move to 13-speed is a bit of a curve ball though. This is SRAM's first 13-speed groupset – although 13 gears is nothing new in the gravel sphere as Campagnolo has offered 1x13 for a while with its mechanical Ekar groupset. The new 13-speed XG-1391 cassette features a 460 percent range with a tighter spread of gears (10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 24, 28, 32, 38, 46T) for better cadence management. Interestingly, SRAM has managed to squeeze the extra sprocket onto the block without requiring a narrower 13-speed specific chain and is compatible with all road flattop chains, it also uses SRAM's existing XDR driver body standard.
Lighter cranks and a dual sided power meter
SRAM has also overhauled the RED XPLR crankset, shaving weight with a new hollow carbon construction. The cranks come in more size options (160, 165, 167.5, 170, 172.5, 175) and can be fitted with chainrings between 38t and 46t.
For those looking for power data to enhance training and racing, SRAM has released a new dual-sided power meter. The power meter is mounted on the spider and uses a proprietary Thread Mount SRAM chainring. Accuracy is claimed to be +/-1.5 percent and the power meter is said to be able to compensate for temperature changes and recalibrate as you ride.
Zipp releases two new gravel wheels
To complement the latest SRAM Red XPLR AXS groupset, Zipp has released two gravel-specific versions of its successful 303 wheelset.
Up until now, Zipp's 303 Firecrests have been the gravel racer's choice, combining an aero 40mm depth, 25mm inner rim diameter, and low weight. However, it was designed as a road bike wheel and wasn't optimized for 38mm to 50mm tires used in gravel racing.
Zipp claims that the new 303 XPLR S and SW wheelsets are its fastest gravel wheels ever, featuring a very wide internal rim diameter and deeper profile that is said to integrate seamlessly with wider gravel tires.
The 303 XPLR rims feature a 32mm inner rim diameter which SRAM claims improves cornering, decreases rolling resistance, and gives the ability to run pressures under 30psi. The rim uses a hookless design and features a rim edge that's 77 percent thicker than the previous model, decreasing the chance of damage when the tire bottoms out on impact.
The rims are also significantly deeper using a 54mm profile which SRAM says creates the perfect aspect ratio for aerodynamic efficiency with a 40mm gravel tire at race speeds.
A new Goodyear Inter (45mm) or Slick (40mm) gravel tire was designed for the 303 XPLR, SRAM claims the combo offers a five-watt saving over its nearest competitor. There is good reason for this, ISO standards dictate a minimum of 58mm to be run on a rim this wide. SRAM states the "303 XPLR is only compatible with approved tires", so compatible tire options will be limited.
The 303 XPLR wheels come in two options; the 303 XPLR SW uses SRAM's ZR1 hub while a more affordable 303 XPLR S wheelset uses more basic 76 / 176 hubs. If SRAM's numbers are to be believed, the 303 XPLR SW weighs an impressive 1,496g, while the 303 XPLR S weighs 1,610g.
Zipp has released a new SL 70 XPLR gravel handlebar designed to integrate with the new SRAM Red AXS groupset. The unidirectional carbon handlebar features a shelf that smoothly integrates with the lever hoods and covers the brake hoses as they exit the lever. There's hidden external routing for hydraulic hose routing through the stem if you want to hide your hoses. SRAM has added defined locators to the bars for the placement of SRAM AXS Wireless Blips to give more shifter options
The bars have a 70mm reach and 115mm drop giving a shallow position in the drops, the bars are flared with a 5-degree and 11-degree out sweep which positions the drops 6cm wider than hoods.
The Zipp SL 70 XPLR gravel handlebar will be available in 40cm, 42cm, 44cm,46cm, and 48cm widths and weigh a claimed 240g (44cm).
Our Take
Will we see gravel riders gleefully jumping up and down on their rear derailleurs (as demoed in MTB T-Type launch videos) with the introduction of SRAM's T-Type standard? I'm not convinced.
The UDH standard hasn't been as prolifically picked up in the gravel world as it was in mountain biking, which means there are significantly fewer existing bikes that can be upgraded to the new SRAM RED XPLR AXS groupset. Big manufacturers will be keen to convert though and some brands like Specialized and Wilier have already updated their CRUX and Rave SLR to be compatible with the new hangerless flagship groupset.
Whether it's welcomed or not, this is a big statement from SRAM and a clear message of intent that will likely usher in the mass adoption of UDH in the gravel scene. If the introduction of MTB T-Type is anything to go by, we can likely expect SRAM's other gravel groupsets to follow suit over the next year, strong arming UDH and T-Type onto new gravel bikes whether manufacturers and customers like it or not.
Gravel T-Type is officially here and there is nothing you can do about it.
Weight, pricing, and availability
The groupset is available now and is already available OEM from some manufacturers too. If you have a UDH-compatible gravel bike and looking to upgrade your drivetrain, SRAM's flagship groupset demands a hefty premium. The Red XPLR AXS including a power meter will set you back $3,979 / £3,980 / €4,465 and opting to forego the power meter drops the price to $3,979 / £3,980 / €4,465.
It's worth noting that the groupset doesn't include the derailleur battery and charger. Unlike the road-going SRAM Red groupset, the XPLR version doesn't include the Hammerhead Karoo GPS computer either.
See below for pricing:
SRAM Red XPLR AXS
- Price: $700 / £700 / €785 (battery not included)
- Cassette: $650 / £600 / €675
- Chainset with power meter: $1100 / £1100 / €1235
- Chainset: $650 / £650 / €735
- Crank arm assembly (BB, spider, chainrings not included): $400 / £400 / €450
- Power meter spider: $500 / £500 / €560
- Chainrings (threaded fitment): $150 / £150 / €170
Zipp 303 XPLR SW
- Zipp 303 XPLR SW price: $2,200 / £1,600 / €1,800
- Zipp 303 XPLR S price: $1,400 / £1,100 / €1,200
Zipp SL 70 XPLR
- Price: $320 / £320 / €360
Goodyear XPLR tires
- Price: $80 / £80 / €90
