In addition to the short cranks and the revised Charger, SRAM is also presenting new brake systems for time trial and triathlon machines as well as a UDH derailleur hanger in a new colour scheme. According to the US company, the components will be available in stores from February. TOUR provides an overview of the new parts.
Crankset: Two new lengths
With 150 and 155 millimetres, SRAM is introducing two new carbon crank lengths. Previously, the range included sets between 160 and 175 millimetres. The US brand is thus responding to the trend towards shorter cranks. Generally speaking, it can be said that shorter cranks can improve pedalling efficiency and aerodynamics. 150-millimetre arms on a road bike were already a topic (of excitement) a year ago when Jonas Vingegaard (Visma | Lease a Bike) tested the then still unpublished set in racing conditions at the Tour of the Algarve. SRAM offers the new crank lengths as a Red version for road (DUB) and gravel (XPLR DUB Wide). However, the sets can also be combined with the cheaper AXS Force and Rival drivetrains. The set costs 450 euros, bottom bracket and chainrings are not included.
Charger: With USB-C, without cable
For more than a year now, many electronic devices in the European Union have had to have a standardised USB-C connection. The regulation is intended to reduce cable clutter and electronic waste. Now, for the first time, SRAM is presenting a USB-C-compatible charger that supplies the mini batteries of the wireless components with power. According to the manufacturer, a battery can be fully charged within an hour. "To avoid waste", according to the official statement from the US manufacturer, the charger will be offered without a charging cable in future. SRAM did not disclose a price, but the "little black one" is usually included with the purchase of a complete bike with AXS drivetrain. The version with USB micro connection and charging cable costs 52 euros (RRP).
Brake system: For Red, Force and Rival
SRAM's new aero brake systems are aimed at triathletes and time trialists. The component specialist promises increased braking power for all quality levels (Red, Force, Rival) with less manual force. The brake levers are made of carbon fibre and are designed to provide a better grip. The grip width can be adjusted on all three models. According to the manufacturer, the so-called bleeding edge technology for uncomplicated bleeding is reserved for the Red and Force. The Aero levers cost between 230 and 322 euros.
UDH derailleur hanger: silver detail
Last but not least, SRAM has also made some cosmetic changes and now offers a UDH derailleur hanger with a silver-grey bolt and washer. Overall, the Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) makes it easier to adjust the rear derailleur and is less susceptible to crashes. The derailleur hanger is now compatible with many modern gravel bikes, and many manufacturers have also adopted the standard in the road bike sector. SRAM has not announced a price for the new colour variant of the UDH.
Julian Schultz
Editor
