After putting SRAM's OG X-Sync chainring through its paces and confirming its ridiculously good chain management properties, we're excited to see SRAM's next generation X-Sync 2 arrive on the scene. Designed to pair with SRAM's groundbreaking one-by 12-speed Eagle drivetrain, the X-Sync 12-Speed Direct Mount Boost Chainring changes things up with claims of improved durability and even better chain control. As with the original design, each tooth is CNC-machined to support the chain's inner- and outer-link widths, providing a variable thickness from tooth to tooth so the chain and chainring effectively lock together as you pedal while also clearing mud and other debris with ease.

The major departure in design lies in the tooth shape. Where the original X-Sync teeth took on a boxy shape, X-Sync 2 is narrower to accommodate the 12-speed Eagle chain and features teeth that more closely resemble those of a shark. Boasting aggressive profiling, these teeth hold the chain securely in place like, well, like a shark's tooth digging into something. The key difference being, of course, that the Eagle chain is designed to accommodate the ring's teeth, while chances are good that a real shark's teeth will cause some pretty—err—dire compatibility issues with whatever they happen to get a hold of.

The benefits of this new profile aren't just limited to its chain retention ability or providing an opportunity for us to write gratuitously about sharks. It mimics the wear profile seen in the original X-Sync teeth for increased durability, and it also features edge shaping to help prevent chain suck over time. The direct-mount interface also makes swapping rings a breeze, giving quick flexibility to adapt to different shapes of terrain.