SRAM RED XPLR AXS Review/Preview
SRAM RED XPLR AXS is our most advanced gravel group, featuring a 13-speed 10-46T range so you’re always in the right gear. Precise shifts with tight jumps between cogs keep you in the gearing sweet spot, and the Full Mount derailleur that fits on frames with the UDH interface ensures this system can take whatever you throw at it. True one-finger braking, and significant weight reductions mean RED XPLR AXS flies up and down any route, with all your effort propelling you forward.
SRAM RED XPLR AXS: What You Need to Know Video
Alternative Video Link for those reading via email subscription
In this video, JOM of the Gravel Cyclist crew presents a first look at SRAM RED XPLR AXS, 13-speed.
Continued from Above:
SRAM RED XPLR AXS Rear Derailleur
“Gravel throws just about everything at your bike, and the RED XPLR AXS rear derailleur will happily take it all. Bring on the sticks, stones, and airport baggage abuse because the Full Mount derailleur design fits onto frames with the hangerless interface to make for the most robust and reliable gravel drivetrain possible. No adjustment screws mean setup is simpler than ever. And a surprise stick is no match for the Magic Wheel, as the debris-resistant lower pulley keeps the chain moving at all times. Purpose built for gravel, this 1x specific unit prioritizes shift precision and chain management no matter the terrain or conditions.”
- 1x specific for use with 10-46T XPLR
- 13-speed cassette and road Flattop chains
- Hangerless Interface and Full Mount attachment allow for the most precise shifting and the ultimate resistance to impact
- Requires frame with UDH interface
- Simple setup with no adjustment screws
- Superior chain management with MTB-inspired spring clutch
- Replaceable and rebuildable parts
- Magic Wheel keeps the chain moving, even if debris enters the lower pulley
- Compatible with existing AXS batteries
SRAM RED XPLR XG-1391 Cassette
As the terrain gets tougher and the pace gets faster, you need the right range to keep moving and the best steps between gears to keep up. The 460% range of the RED XPLR XG-1391 13-speed cassette gives you the climbing gears you crave on gravel and the tight jumps you need on spicy sprints. Enjoy the highest shift quality on even the roughest roads thanks to optimized shift features on each cog, all from a cassette that weighs only 288 g.”
- Expanded 460% range gives the added coverage 1x gravel riders demand
- For use with XPLR 1x 13-speed rear derailleurs
- Only 288 g
- Compatible with all road Flattop chains
- Compatible with XDR driver body
- Same spacing as a 12-Speed cassette
SRAM RED XPLR Power Meter
Tracking your progress on gravel just got easier and more accurate. With our new spider-based power meter and removable Thread Mount chainrings, the RED XPLR AXS power meter is lightweight, reliable in all weather, and accurate within +/-1.5%. With dual-sided power measurement, even your loftiest of gravel training goals are within reach.”
- All-new design with removable and replaceable Thread Mount chainrings, available in 38T-46T
- Power readings are accurate within +/-1.5% and aren’t affected by climate conditions during a ride
- User replaceable CR2032 battery with 200-hour battery life
- Measures right and left leg power balance
- Ultra-light hollow carbon fiber crankarms are 29 g lighter than previous generation
- DUB bottom bracket adds durability and simplicity
- Waterproof (IPX7 waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
- Available in 160, 165, 167.5, 170, 172.5, and 175 mm lengths
SRAM RED XPLR Crankset
Gravel bikes deserve our lightest and stiffest cranks too. The RED XPLR crankset maximizes tire clearance and features our hollow carbon arms paired with the direct mount 1x chainring of your choice. Now available in 160mm crankarm length, this crank is built to please every rider, even those who prefer the unpaved.”
- Single-ring drivetrain simplifies functionality and reduces weight
- Non-aero direct mount chainrings from 38T to 46T can be swapped with a single tool
- SRAM X-SYNC wide-tooth, narrow-tooth chainring technology provides maximum chain control
- Ultra-light hollow carbon fiber crankarms
- DUB bottom bracket adds durability and simplicity
- Can be upgraded to a power meter
- Available in 160, 165, 167.5, 170, 172.5, and 175 mm lengths
SRAM RED XPLR AXS Power Meter Spider
When you need the absolute best from your training data, the accuracy and reliability of the RED XPLR AXS Power Meter is the way to go. The spider design uses a proprietary thread-on chainring mount system which allows us to reduce weight and increase stiffness without compromising the ability to swap rings. A dual sided power measurement system, it’s accurate to +/-1.5% even as weather conditions change, and boasts unbeatable battery life.”
- Thread Mount design is light, stiff and accurate, and available in 38T-46T
- +/- 1.5% accuracy
- User replaceable CR2032 battery with 200-hour battery life
- Bluetooth low energy technology and ANT+ wireless data transfer
- MagicZero automatically checks and recalibrates your power meter as you ride
- No cadence magnet required
- 10K Temperature Compensation
- Waterproof (IPX7 waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
- AXS™ enabled for easy monitoring and firmware updates
X-SYNC RED XPLR Thread Mount Chainrings
Designed for use with our new RED XPLR AXS power meter, these replacement rings are purpose made for use with a Thread Mount spider design. This chainring mount system allows us to minimize weight, maximize stiffness and accuracy, and retain the ability to swap ring sizes. Available in five sizes to tailor your ride to your needs.
- Thread Mount design is light, stiff, and accurate
- Available in 38T, 40T, 42T, 44T, and 46T
- Compatible with all road Flattop chains
- SRAM Thread Mount Chainring Removal Tool required for installation
Wheelsets: Zipp 303 XPLR SW
“The Zipp 303 XPLR SW wheelset is our fastest gravel wheel ever, thanks to its mega-wide and deep rim that integrates seamlessly with gravel tires.* Current gravel wheels are slightly modified versions of existing road wheels, focusing on high stiffness and low weight. Zipp takes a different approach, solely with speed in mind. In gravel, rolling resistance and vibration loss from rough surfaces, and wind are significant barriers to speed. To combat this, Zipp applied its Total System Efficiency design philosophy specifically to the challenges of gravel.”
The 303 XPLR SW is a speed-focused gravel wheel designed with a new approach: Start with the perfect gravel tire and design a wheel around it. To develop this first-of-its-kind wheelset, Zipp engineers learned from studying how gravel racing has changed cycling in recent years, coming to several vital conclusions:
- The progression of gravel speeds increases the importance of aerodynamic efficiency.
- Current generation gravel wheels exhibit poor aerodynamic efficiency with gravel tires.
- Low tire pressures are the key for unlocking speed on gravel, but current gravel rim design provides insufficient tire stance to support lateral cornering loads at lower tire pressures.
- Current gravel rim designs do not help prevent pinch flats while using lower tire pressures.
“Typical tire widths for gravel racing range from 38-50mm with varying tread patterns. Current gravel wheels have an external rim width of 28-30mm, which creates an aerodynamic mismatch when you use a 40mm+ gravel tire. With that narrower rim and wider tire, the tire-wheel interface looks more like the bulge of a lightbulb than the ideal seamless airfoil cross-section. According to Zipp testing, the efficient pairing of wheel and gravel tire of our 303 XPLR SW design provides a 5-watt aerodynamic advantage over a leading competitor. This wheel is optimized for use with the Goodyear XPLR Slick and Goodyear XPLR Inter, both tires designed in partnership with Zipp.”
“Low tire pressures significantly increases speeds on gravel. The problem with current gravel wheelsets is that a narrow tire bed with low tire pressures will cause the tire to collapse while cornering. The 303 XPLR SW’s wide tire bed increases tire stance, allowing for lower tire pressures without tire squirm under corner loads. That means decreased vibration loss while maintaining predictable control in corners and unbroken traction while climbing. The 303 XPLR SW also helps reduce pinch flats thanks to a rim edge that is 77 percent thicker than previous models, decreasing the chance for damage when the tire bottoms-out on the rim edge upon impact.”
“What about rim depth? Conventional thinking suggests that shallow rims are best suited for gravel. As gravel racing has progressed, many gravel courses are raced at 35kph+ (~22MPH) with top speeds over 60kph (~37MPH). The 303 XPLR SW rim is 54mm deep to create an effective aerodynamic complement for large gravel tires at high speed. Our research found that a 54mm deep rim creates the perfect aspect ratio for aerodynamic efficiency with a 40mm gravel tire at race speeds.”
“And while the 303 XPLR SW is built big, it’s a featherweight 1496g to keep you fast up the inevitable gravel climb where group separation often occurs.”
“Finally, the last critical element in going fast on gravel is the rider itself. You are the veritable engine rocketing across the terrain. The lower tire pressures achievable with 303 XPLR SW will keep you in top condition with less muscle fatigue into the 11th hour by insulating from torturous hours of knocks and bumps. With 303 XPLR SW you’ll fly into the finishing chute more prepared than ever for the final sprint to the line.”
*303 XPLR SW IS ONLY COMPATIBLE WITH APPROVED TIRES. The Goodyear XPLR Slick and Goodyear XPLR Inter are specifically designed and optimized for the 303 XPLR SW.
Specifications:
- Wheel Size, 700c, Carbon – Hookless
- Hubs, ZR1
- Rim Inside Width, 32mm
- Max System Weight, 286lb / 130kg
- Max Tire Pressure, >50 PSI / 3.45bar
- Weight(g), 1496g
Features:
- Fastest race wheel on gravel, features tubeless and hookless rim profile
- Ultra-wide internal profile for decreased rolling resistance, ability to run pressures under 30psi (2.1 bars)
- Wide and deep profile integrates seamlessly with gravel tires to increase aerodynamic efficiency
- Applies Zipp’s Total System efficiency to high performance gravel
- Max tire pressure 50 psi/3.45 bar
- ZR1 DB hub is engineered in Germany with better seal design for improved durability and quicker response with 66 points of engagement
- Center locking rotor interface. Lockring is included with the wheels
- XDR or SRAM/Shimano driver bodies
- Campagnolo N3W Driver body sold separately
- Ships with 12mm front and rear end caps
- Lifestyle Warranty
Wheelsets: Zipp 303 XPLR S
“The Zipp 303 XPLR S is big upgrade in speed for gravel riders without a big price tag. This wheelset borrows key innovations from our premium wide gravel wheelset, it is affordable and robust for discerning gravel riders. This wheelset is the fastest on gravel, thanks to its mega-wide rim that integrates seamlessly with approved gravel racing tires.”*
“Current gravel wheels are slightly modified versions of existing road wheels, focusing on high stiffness and low weight. Zipp takes a different approach, solely with speed in mind. In gravel, rolling resistance and vibration loss from rough surfaces, and wind are significant barriers to speed. To combat this, Zipp applied its Total System Efficiency design philosophy specifically to the challenges of gravel.”
The 303 XPLR S is a speed-focused gravel wheel designed with a new approach: Start with the perfect gravel tire and design a wheel around it. To develop this first-of-its-kind wheelset, Zipp engineers learned from studying how gravel racing has changed cycling in recent years, coming to several vital conclusions:
- The progression of gravel speeds increases the importance of aerodynamic efficiency.
- Current generation gravel wheels exhibit poor aerodynamic efficiency with gravel tires.
- Low tire pressures are the key for unlocking speed on gravel, but current gravel rim design provides insufficient tire stance to support lateral cornering loads at lower tire pressures.
- Current gravel rim designs do not help prevent pinch flats while using lower tire pressures.
“Typical tire widths for gravel racing range from 38-50mm with varying tread patterns. Current gravel wheels have an external rim width of 28-30mm, which creates an aerodynamic mismatch when you use a 40mm+ gravel tire. With that narrower rim and wider tire, the tire-wheel interface looks more like the bulge of a lightbulb than the ideal seamless airfoil cross-section. According to Zipp testing, the efficient pairing of wheel and gravel tire of our 303 XPLR S design provides a 5-watt aerodynamic advantage over a leading competitor. This wheel is optimized for use with the Goodyear XPLR Slick and Goodyear XPLR Inter, both tires designed in partnership with Zipp.”
*303 XPLR S IS ONLY COMPATIBLE WITH APPROVED TIRES. The Goodyear XPLR Slick and Goodyear XPLR Inter are specifically designed and optimized for the 303 XPLR S.
Specifications:
- Wheel Size, 700c, Carbon – Hookless
- Hubs, 76/176
- Rim Inside Width, 32mm
- Max System Weight, 286lb / 130kg
- Max Tire Pressure, >50 PSI / 3.45bar
- Weight(g), 1642g
Features:
- Fast and robust gravel wheel, features tubeless and hookless rim profile
- Ultra-wide internal profile for decreased rolling resistance, ability to run pressures under 30psi (2.1 bars)
- Wide and deep profile integrates seamlessly with gravel tires to increase aerodynamic efficiency
- Applies Zipp’s Total System Efficiency to high-performance gravel
- 76 / 176 DB hubs with Center locking interface XDR or SRAM/Shimano driver bodies
- Ships with 12mm front and rear end caps
- Max tire pressure 50 psi/3.45 bar
- Lifetime Warranty
Goodyear XPLR Inter Tire / Tyre
“The Goodyear XPLR Inter is part of gravel-game-changing wheel and tire system. This versatile gravel tire is designed for Zipp’s ultra-wide 303 XPLR S and SW wheelsets to provide a fast wheel and tire combination on any gravel surface. Capable in dry to mixed conditions.”
“Wheel systems for gravel today are essentially stronger versions of what exists on the road: light, stiff, narrow, and aero. The problem is that riding on gravel induces harmful vibrations that slow you down and increase fatigue over time. In addition, gravel tires generally negate the aerodynamic advantages of traditionally narrow road rims.”
“The new XPLR wheel and tire system takes an entirely new approach and optimizes the dimensions of the components to achieve the fastest setup on the market. Besides unsurpassed aero benefits for gravel, the resulting width of the rim also enables lower tire pressure, which helps filtering out vibrations for extra energy savings.”
“The XPLR Inter offers the most versatile gravel setup with 303 XPLR and can be ridden in most situations. Its tight pattern in the center provides fast rolling, while the bigger side blocks ensure grip and confidence when cornering. The light and supple construction enhances ride quality. M:Wall reinforcements in the sidewalls provide puncture protection against cuts and pinch flats, allowing the rider to get away with the lowest possible air pressure. And finally, the dimension of tire beads is designed to ensure convenient assembly and secure retention on Zipp TSS rims. Only approved tires can be used on the XPLR wheels.”
Specifications:
- Tire Size, 700×45
- Tire Type, Tubeless Complete
- Optimized For 303 XPLR
- Bead Type, Folding
Features:
- Lightweight casing provides a supple ride quality
- M:Wall protection helps prevent cuts and reduces the chance of getting pinch flats
- Optimized construction and geometry for Zipp’s 303 XPLR. Tread pattern designed for versatility, suitable for most gravel situations in any conditions
- Dynamic:UHP compound improves grip, lowers rolling resistance
- Tubeless Complete, and Dual Angle Beads ensure secure retention on XPLR rims
- Designed to measure 45mm on a Zipp 32mm TSS rim
- XPLR Inter: 525g
Goodyear XPLR Slick Tyre
“The Goodyear XPLR Slick is part of gravel-game-changing wheel and tire system. This is a semi-slick gravel race tire that is designed for Zipp’s unique 303 XPLR SW and S wheelsets to provide the fastest wheel and tire combination on smooth to moderate gravel. Its best performance is in dry conditions.”
“Wheel systems for gravel today are mostly slightly stronger versions of what exists on the road: light, stiff, narrow, and aero. The problem is that riding on gravel induces harmful vibrations that slow you down and increase fatigue over time. In addition, gravel tires generally negate the aerodynamic advantages of traditionally narrow road rims. The Slick is designed to measure 40mm on the 303 XPLR wheel.”
“The new XPLR wheel and tire system takes an entirely new approach and optimizes the dimensions of the components to achieve the fastest setup on the market. Besides unsurpassed aero benefits for gravel, the resulting width of the rim also enables lower tire pressure, which helps filtering out vibrations for extra energy savings.”
“The XPLR Slick offers the most aero gravel setup with 303 XPLR SW and S wheels and is best suited for racing on smooth gravel in dry conditions. Its slick center provides fast rolling, while texture and cornering blocks ensure some level of confidence. The light and supple construction enhances ride quality. M:Wall reinforcements in the sidewalls provide puncture protection against cuts and pinch flats, allowing the rider to get away with the lowest possible air pressure. And finally, the dimension of tire beads is designed to ensure convenient assembly and secure retention on Zipp TSS rims. Only approved tires can be used on the XPLR wheels.”
Specifications:
- Tire Size, 700×40
- Tire Type, Tubeless Complete
- Optimized For 303 XPLR
- Bead Type, Folding
Features:
- Lightweight casing provides a supple ride quality
- M:Wall protection helps prevent cuts and reduces the chance of getting pinch flats
- Optimized construction and geometry provide unsurpassed aero dynamic performance with Zipp’s 303 XPLR. Tread pattern designed for fast racing on smooth gravel, best in dry conditions
- Dynamic:UHP compound improves grip, lowers rolling resistance
- Tubeless Complete, and Dual Angle Beads ensure secure retention on XPLR rims
- Designed to measure 40mm on a Zipp 32mm TSS rim
- XPLR Slick: 455g
Reminder: ALWAYS BE A STEWARD FOR GRAVEL CYCLING: Respect the roads, respect the locals, respect the land, respect your fellow cyclists.
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Links of Interest:
- SRAM Website
- North Florida Freeride Gravel Series
- How to Create Amazing & Fun Gravel Routes!
- Gravel Cyclist’s Route Library
- Gravel Bike Tire / Tyre Pressure Recommendations
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