SRAM

Force eTap AXS 2x HRD Groupset - 2023

Even as far back as the launch of the original 11-speed Red eTap, riders have been begging SRAM to release a version of Force eTap this allowing more riders the ability to enjoy its wireless, electronic shirting. Well SRAM listened and hot on the heels of its Red eTap AXS release comes the all-new Force eTap AXS 2x HRD Groupset. It offers the same easy install and setup and excellent shift logic of the original eTap with all of the advancements of the new Red AXS, including a larger gear range with smoother progressions and its AXS app for updating the firmware, reprogramming shift buttons and setting up compensating and sequential shifting, as well as tracking mileage and ride time for staying on top of maintenance schedules. Add to that the Orbit rear derailleur technology offering excellent chain management and quietness for 'cross and gravel riders and the stellar disc brake performance from the HRD platform, and you have a group that's a serious contender to Shimano's Ultegra Di2. The use of slightly less exotic materials and construction methods, such as a pinned versus a fully CNC'd cassette, adds a little bit to the group's weight, however, thanks to the use of the same electronics as Red, its performance on the road is nearly indistinguishable.

This group includes right and left Force eTap AXS HRD brake/shifters with flat mount calipers, front and rear Force eTap AXS derailleurs with batteries, a battery charger, 2 Centerline XR 6-bolt 160mm rotors, and a charging cord.

As we mentioned above, one new feature that's really exciting with the Force group is its AXS integration. Once you connect the group to the AXS app via Bluetooth on your smartphone or tablet, you can easily personalize the groupset including button customization, numbers of up or downshifts when the buttons are held down, as well as sequential and compensating shifting. Sequential shifting reduces redundant gear ratios and maintains a better chainline by automatically shifting the front and rear derailleurs to the optimal gear as you up and downshift, allowing you to focus on the ride. This option is great for those already used to a 1x setup. In this mode, however, you still have full control over the front derailleur to shift as needed. Compensating shifting simply shifts the rear derailleur to a self-selected number of shifts after making a front shift, so your change in cadence isn't as drastic. This is something we already do with mechanical shifting but it's nice when the system's electronics can do it for us.

The HRD shift/brake levers offer wireless electronic shifting with hydraulic disc braking. eTap's simple and intuitive shifting logic returns, with large shifting paddles that are textured for an improved feel and offers two Blip ports each for remote shifters. The lever's fit and pad contact preferences can be easily adjusted with SRAM’s Contact Point Adjustment and Reach Adjust technologies. And when it comes time for a bleed, SRAM's Bleeding Edge technology allows for a quick and easy procedure with special ports at the lever and caliper so you don't spill DOT fluid on your shop's floor.

The new Force eTap AXS front derailleur returns with SRAM's excellent Yaw pivot design for trim-free cage operation. It rotates slightly when shifted into the small ring improving shifting while also preventing chain rub, no matter what cog the chain is on out back. It also features an optimized cage profile for the new smaller, close-ratio (33/46, 35/48, and 37/50t) X-Range front chainring combinations, afforded by that 10 tooth cog thanks to the XD-R driver, for smooth and quick shifting. It's also completely compatible with existing eTap batteries and gravel riders can now rejoice: its battery placement is streamlined to allow for more rear tire clearance which SRAM claims is up to 700c x 42mm.

The rear derailleur gets that before mentioned Orbit fluid damper using silicone fluid for its chain management system providing a quiet, secure, and smooth ride, even over the bumpiest terrain. Unlike traditional clutches, Orbit places no additional resistance on the derailleur’s spring when under slow or light movement for smoother shifting and easy rear wheel removal. Large X-SYNC pulleys and ceramic bearings provide extra efficiency and durability while riding. It also receives a new motor and signal for faster, more precise shifting and like the front derailleur, remains compatible with existing eTap batteries. One last thing, it uses the same cage length for 10-26, 10-28, and 10-33t cassettes so you can make changes to your gearing based on the terrain, all while using the same rear derailleur.

Please note to complete the groupset, you will still need to purchase a SRAM 12-speed DUB or GXP crank, cassette, chain.