More and more riders prefer single chainring drivetrains – they are lighter, more intuitive to use and result in a cleaner cockpit than a 2×10 setup. But if you don’t want to spend your hard earned money on SRAMs expensive XX1- or X01 group, the standard 11 – 36 cassette limits the versatility of your bike. Well, at least until now: The company OneUp provides a 42T sprocket that extends the range of standard SRAM and Shimano cassettes. We took a close look to guide you through its assembly.

Das Kettenblatt
The OneUp Components 42t Sprocket

The 71 grams additional weight of the cnc-manufactured aluminium sprocket is invested well, given that it replaces front derailleur, trigger, housings and of course one of the chainrings.

Vincents Alutech Fanes already has a short cage derailleur and a single chainring at the front - mounting the 42t sprocket was to improve comfort during uphills.
Vinzenz Alutech Fanes already has a short cage derailleur and a single chainring at the front – mounting the 42t sprocket was to improve comfort during uphills.
After removing the rear wheel, the next step is dismounting the cassette. You'll need a chain whip and a lockring remover.
After removing the rear wheel, the next step is dismounting the cassette. You’ll need a chain whip and a lockring remover.
To make room for the 42t sprocket, the 17t sprocket has to go.
To make room for the 42t sprocket, the 17t sprocket has to go.
During the first rides with the new cassette combination, we never missed the 17t sprocket.
During the first rides with the new cassette combination, we never missed the 17t sprocket.
This side up
Important: When you are running a Shimano cassette, the alignment of the OneUp sprocket is different than on a SRAM cassette.
While we're at it: The dismantled cassette is easy to clean!
While we’re at it: The dismantled cassette is easy to clean!
After that, we slide the sprockets back on the driver, using some grease. Keep an eye on the right order.
After that, we slide the sprockets back on the driver, using some grease. Keep an eye on the right order.
Usually the right torque is written on the lockring of the cassette. In our case it's 40 NM.
Usually the right torque is written on the lockring of the cassette. In our case it’s 40 NM.
In no time the OneUp 42t sprocket is mounted and the rear wheel ready for a ride again!
In no time the OneUp 42t sprocket is mounted and the rear wheel ready for a ride again!
After installing the wheel again, it's now time to setup the derailleur.
After installing the wheel again, it’s now time to setup the derailleur.
It's especially important to correctly set up the end limiter and the tensioning screw - otherwise the chain is in danger of falling of and getting stuck between spokes and sprocket!
It’s especially important to correctly set up the end limiter and the tensioning screw – otherwise the chain is in danger of falling of and getting stuck between spokes and sprocket!
Race-Ready: The 10-speed cassette in combination with a short cage derallieur and a XX1-spider on the X0 2-ring crank provide enough pedaling comfort.
Race-Ready: The 10-speed cassette in combination with a short cage derallieur and a XX1-spider on the X0 2-ring crank provide enough pedaling comfort.

Technical Facts:

  • 42T sprocket weight: 71g
  • 10-speeds: (11-13-15-19-21-24-28-32-36-42)
  • 42T sprocket weight: 7075-T6
  • Typical 3x to 1x system weight decrease: 367g
  • Price: 100$
  • More information: www.oneupcomponents.com

Bottom Line

The first impression of the cassette after assembling and a few rides is quite positive! Upgrading your existing cassette is easy and enables most of the advantages of a 1x-chainring drivetrain at a fraction of the XX1s costs. In regards to shifting performance, we weren’t able to notice any disadvantages compared to an untuned setup – the OneUp Components 42t sprocket is a good buy!


Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.

About the author

Aaron Steinke

Aaron was our first employee and actively helped make our company what it is today, significantly shaping the look and direction of our various magazines. Aaron has been pursuing his own projects since mid-2020 but he continues to advise and support us on issues of marketing and technology. For many years, you would usually have found Aaron at casual enduro races, but increasingly you'll find him riding his road bike – long live freedom on two wheels!