First Ride Review: SRAM GX Eagle – 12-speed drivetrain for the masses! | Page 3 of 3

Ride Impressions

We’ve been riding the new SRAM GX Eagle group for a few weeks now and can, therefore, look back on a few hundred kilometres of testing. The appearance is subtle but quite chic – the GX Eagle blends in with pretty much any bike. Sure, the GX does not have the bling factor of the XX1, but its looks are anything but cheap.

SRAM GX Eagle Review 1 von 19 1140x760 — The glow on the horizon: While remaining affordable, the GX Eagle is perfectly suited for most real world applications.

So far, so good, but can the inner values satisfy too? To make it short: yes! SRAM hasn’t promised too much, the shifting performance of the GX Eagle is very close to its more expensive relatives. The 12 gears change quickly and directly in both directions, the shift feel is crisp and defined as we’ve come to expect from SRAM. As with the more expensive groups, you should pay close attention to the correct setting of the B-tension screw during installation. With the easy to use tool that SRAM provides, this shouldn’t be a big challenge though. Set up correctly, the GX Eagle is a worry-free drivetrain, that has been unobtrusive in the best sense over the entire test period.

SRAM GX Eagle Review 4 von 19 1140x760 — Even the steepest climbs lose their horror with the GX Eagle. Depending on the size of the chainring, riders get a very light climbing gear without sacrificing top speed.

In addition to the excellent performance, the advantage of the enormous gear range became increasingly obvious over the weeks of testing. By choosing an appropriate chainring, you get an extremely light climbing gear that gets you up the steepest gradients. Unlike in the past, you don’t have compromise on the other side of the range – a distinct advantage on the race track or the sprint duel with your mates.

Conclusion

The XX1 Eagle and X01 Eagle have set the pace, but the GX Eagle is the true star of the current SRAM line-up. With the new GX, almost everyone can now enjoy the benefits of Eagle technology and despite the enormous cost advantage, there are hardly any compromises to be made. Only a longer test period will show how the SRAM GX Eagle holds up in terms of long term durability, but after our positive experience with the 1×11 GX, we are very optimistic.

SRAM GX Eagle Review 2 von 19 1140x760 — Never thinking about the drivetrain on your ride is probably the highest praise you can give to a groupset – The SRAM GX Eagle convinced us with its consistent performance!

Also, check out our SRAM X01 Review and our article with 12 reasons to upgrade to SRAM Eagle

More information on the SRAM Website

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