“Apex is the group that knows how to have a good time. Wide-range 1×12 gearing for gravel, bikepacking, adventure, casual cruises, and everything in between. Whether with wireless AXS or classic DoubleTap mechanical shifting, Apex provides smooth and reliable shifting, chain retention, and controlled and powerful hydraulic braking. Apex is simple to understand and easy to use, keeping the focus on what matters most – finding the fun.” – https://sram.com
SRAM Apex AXS Review Video
Alternative Video Link for those reading via email subscription.
In this video, JOM of the Gravel Cyclist crew provides a detailed review of SRAM’s fourth tier, their lowest tier electronic groupset, Apex eTap AXS. Everything is covered from functional performance, device integration, batteries, chain management, and a lot more. Another real-world no BS review.
Continued from Above:
APEX AXS SHIFT-BRAKE SYSTEM “Smooth and powerful hydraulic braking mated to 12-speed wireless, intuitive shifting is an unbeatable combo at any level. An optimized hood shape fits all hand sizes for comfortable and controlled braking from the hoods and the drops. Shifting is as easy as ever: one paddle to go to an easier gear, and one to go harder. Nothing extra, nothing distracting.”
- AXS enabled for easy wireless setup, personalization, and reliability
- eTap shift logic for intuitive wireless shifting
- Hydraulic disc brakes for power and modulation
- Optimized hood shape fits a wide range of hand sizes
- Textured shift paddles and hoods for control and comfort
- Reach Adjust to personalize fit for more hand sizes
APEX XPLR AXS REAR DERAILLEUR
“The Apex XPLR AXS rear derailleur fits wide-range cassettes with 36T or 44T large cogs and incorporates a spring clutch for flawless chain management on or off-road. Innovative and intuitive eTap shift logic and AXS connectivity keeps Apex delightfully distraction-free.”
- AXS enabled for easy wireless setup, monitoring, personalization, and reliability
- 1x specific for use with 11-44 T XPLR, 10-44T XPLR, and 10-36T cassettes
- Chain management keeps the drivetrain quiet and secure
APEX AXS CRANKARM POWER METER UPGRADE
“Accurate, reliable power measurement is practically a requirement these days, and the Apex AXS crankarm power meter upgrade is the easiest way to get precise power numbers. With the tech hidden inside the DUB spindle, it fits almost any bike while remaining stealthy.”
- DUB-PWR spindle-based unit measures left side power to calculate total watts
- Proven reliability and accuracy – Long battery life (400+ hours) to power a season of rides
- User replaceable AAA lithium battery – DUB bottom bracket adds durability and simplicity
- Waterproof (IPX7 waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
- Lightweight (less than 40g heavier than standard crankset)
System Weights
Additional Photos
Visit the SRAM Website more information.
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Links of Interest:
- SRAM Website – https://sram.com
- SRAM APEX AXS & Mechanical Groupsets: Less $$$ for 12-Speed
- SRAM Rival eTap AXS Long-Term Review
- SRAM Force eTap AXS WIDE Wireless Electronic Drivetrain Review
- Gravel Bike Tyre Pressure Guidelines
- Tailwind Nutrition (JOM’s choice of on-the-bike hydration)
- Gravel Cyclist’s Route Library
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I decided I could do without the 10t cog and went with the 11-44 cassette. Something to be said having the 11,12,13t smallest cogs.
Much of the time, I feel the 10T cog is a complete waste of time. For SRAM XDR to work, the 10T cog is part of the lockring. A shame SRAM cannot figure out a way to engineer an 11T cog with integrated lockring if they persist with the XDR standard. Thankful SRAM provided HG compatibility with this new cassette.