Strengths: Easy to setup. Ultra precise shifting- super slick. Works even when buried in mud.
Weaknesses: Not found any yet.
Overall: I can't believe how slick this thing shifts. Even under heavy load the change is smooth and precise. They seem to stay the same in heavy conditions with a thick coating of mud too. I've had to stop with Shimano in similar circumstances and wash the mech to get it shifting! I haven't had any issues with jockey wheels but I do have the latest model- maybe they have fixed the issue or perhaps I haven't run it long enough. I do tend quickly to wash the muck off after every ride and am even known to throw a bit of lube at things, maybe that helps?
I've been a fan of some of SRAMS sister brands (Truvativ, Avid & RockShox) but have always used Shimano for mechs and shifters until now. What have I been missing! I can't ever see myself going back.
Weaknesses: Looks bit fragile. Jockey wear. Give it a clean regularly Must be used with SRAM shifters
Overall: 500 miles on and I'm still impressed with this mech. Needs the 1:1 SRAM shifters but with these the shifting is super swift and definite. Set up is easy with no rear cable adjust and the cable routing looks reliable. I've used mine in all sorts of gloop and never had problems although I do give it a clean afterwards-only 2 minutes work after all. The frame looks a bit lightweight and fragile, but I've wacked mine a couple of times so far without cracking it. Jockey wheels are wearing a bit, but the bearings are OK.
A genuine XT alternative, especially if you like the SRAM shifters.
Strengths: There is a wide range of opinion on this stuff - so here's mine:-)
It's worth it to change the shifters at the same time... The 1:1 precision shifters really do work better than Xt or combined braker shifter pods.
By work better i mean, very positive click in either direction, easy to move 5 gears at a time and the thumbs only action is in fact useful when you've cocked it up & are hauling on the brakes and are needing to change gear simultaneously.
Installation is well easy for mech and shifters, if you need instructions then they are clear and simple to follow.
By having no barrel adjuster at the mech end is much better, mainly cos there is less moving parts to get gunged up and then start sticking.
I have had no ghost shifting problems, which is impressive when the trails I ride at this time of year are in fact a quagmire.
The construction is very solid.
As my XT mech exploded recently and I wasnt going to get drawn in to the big S incompatability game - never mind the combo brake / shifter madness i decide to go sram, in fact there's not much else to choose from.
Weaknesses: er... had to get the shifters as well to ge the most out of the mech...
Overall: - worth the cash
- works better than XT
- easy to set up
- i dont understand why you dont see more of them about
Strengths: Changes better than the latest XT up the block when new.
Weaknesses: Jockey wheels wear out faster than XT and then start sticking/ wobbling. After a few dunks in the gloop its no better than LX which is still better than the latest XT.
Weaknesses: Jocky wheels seize up with mud if not cleaned.
Overall: Despite the one problem with the jockey wheels, which was easaly fixed, it continues to shift precisely even after a months use. Usually with Shimano rear mechs (XT, LX and Deore) I'm experiencing duff shifting after a couple of rides.
Strengths: easy to set up, easy to service and working well after 2 months constant riding.
Weaknesses: doesn't like being beaten with lake district rock. can fall apart and give some ghost shifting.
Overall: would disagree with other review, look after your rear mech well (as you should do with the rest of your bike) and the bearings wont seize. the mech is a good size and will take a good few knocks (just not from big rocks!). coupled with the x-9 shifter, the gears run smoothly and leave you with nothing to woory about other than which gear you should be in
Weaknesses: seems a little fragile, broke 3 clean off below the hanger shifting is sensitive to cable stretch loads of pulley friction
Overall: Overall I don't particularly think that the SRAM X-generation is different from the 9.0SL stuff except in looks. The X.0 derailleur I trie at the Euro Bike in Amsterdam was a lot better than the X.9 stuff. Not worth changing the entire drivetrain for this stuff, although I can see the perceived faster shifting may win some people over
Strengths: Good value, 1/1 ratio ESP shifting is very accurate and easy to set up. sealed bearing jocky wheels.
Weaknesses: None! Except that it can be hard to obtain.
Overall: This mech has an ultra modern skeletal look. The shifting (I use X.0 shifters) is very direct, down shifts almost bang the chain into place. It's had a few whacks and is pretty strong - shifting is as good as ever.
Strengths: 1:1 ratio means more tolerant of mud, positive shifts and lighter action. The angle of cable entry to the unit removes that 120 degree loop that otherwise means replacing the cable outer every 3-6 months. Can brake and shift together, but with separate controls.
Weaknesses: A bit clunky shifting - but you could call that positive...
Overall: Now I'm used to the thumb only shifting, I'm really getting to like SRAM. I do like separating braking and shifting, so when you set off down a steep slope, you can shift to a higher gear and operate the brakes without fear of meeting the earth face-first.
Performance
100%
Reliability
80%
Value
80%
Overall Rating
87%
MY REVIEW
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Average Rating: 4 out of 5
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