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SRAM unveil new XX mountain bike groupset

Our test bike for the launch was a Merida Ninety-Six - a lightning-quick race steed that was still fun to ride on more challenging trails

  • The Truvativ XX crank shifts the chainline inboard for two-ring use so that all gear combinations are quiet and smooth
  • The Truvativ XX crank shifts the chainline inboard for two-ring use so that all gear combinations are quiet and smooth
  • The BB30 version of the Truvativ XX crank is the lightest in the line at just 694g
  • A small threaded collar allows for fine bearing adjustment on the BB30 version
  • Truvativ XX cranksets will be offered in four bottom bracket styles: GXP, BB30 and press-fit versions of both
  • The chainring bolts thread directly into the crankarm or into the chainring for reduced complexity and a stiffer foundation
  • The star of the XX group is the new X-Dome cassette which is based on the Red group's PowerDome design but heavily relieved for use in muddy conditions and with drastically improved tooth profiles
  • The aluminium back plate on the XX cassette doubles as the largest cog and is individually replaceable
  • The new X-Glide tooth profiles are substantially quieter than before and shift far more smoothly than anything we've yet seen from SRAM
  • Any issues with mud and debris packing up the cassette are seemingly abated with XX's heavily milled-out structure
  • The pull lever is still adjustable for angle but now 3mm shorter than X.0 and made of carbon fibre
  • The rear derailleur is lighter than X.0 by virtue of forged magnesium and more carbon fibre
  • The cable has been moved further inboard to provide more protection against damage
  • The XX derailleur is by far SRAM's lightest off-road model to date
  • Widely set pivots and alloy and titanium hardware keep things stiff and light
  • High mount models use a stainless steel band clamp that conforms nicely around carbon seat tubes and grips more tightly with fewer pressure points
  • In addition to the usual front derailleur sizes, SRAM will also offer XX in four direct mount fitments in both top and bottom pull versions
  • The Avid XX brake is similar to the Elixir CR Mag but with even lighter weight and a more compact master cylinder
  • The new two-piece Avid XX caliper is made from forged magnesium and fitted with titanium hardware
  • A new two-piece rotor uses a stainless steel brake track for predictable performance but an aluminium carrier for reduced weight
  • Reach adjustment on the Avid XX brakes requires a 2mm wrench
  • The new XLoc design is not only light but also very cleanly integrated into the cockpit
  • The new MatchMaker X clamps are far cleaner in appearance than the original MatchMaker, especially when the XLoc remote is added on
  • SRAM have adopted T25 Torx bolts for nearly everything on XX for easier installation, maintenance and adjustment - not to mention slightly lighter weight as it allows for shallower bolt heads
  • RockShox will also add several XX-level forks to the mix with travel ranging from 80-150mm
  • The top-end SID XX World Cup now uses a one-piece carbon fibre crown and steerer tube
  • The hydraulic XLoc fitting atop the fork features a freely spinning banjo for cleaner routing
  • Our test bike for the launch was a Merida Ninety-Six - a lightning-quick race steed that was still fun to ride on more challenging trails

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Our test bike for the launch was a Merida Ninety-Six - a lightning-quick race steed that was still fun to ride on more challenging trails

© James Huang