Review SRAM Force AXS | 12V inalámbrico para GRAVEL | Border Bash Aragon | BIKEPACKER

Today I'm sharing my experience testing the new SRAM FORCE AXS 12-speed wireless groupset over the past few weeks. I recently rode it at the Border Bash Aragon gravel event in the Sierra de Guara mountains. Border Bash Aragon 00:39 Well, friends, Border Bash Aragon was the site of my final test of this SRAM FORCE AXS in its single-chainring XPLR version, which looked gleaming on an impressive TREK Checkpoint SLR, as you can see. For three days, I enjoyed a very relaxed atmosphere with cyclists from all over the world who share the same passion for gravel and adventure cycling. Self-guided routes, breathtaking scenery, and lively discussions about our sport and gear, all in great company. An event I'll definitely be returning to in future editions. SRAM Force XPLR AXS 01:19 Regarding my test of the new SRAM drivetrain, I was generally surprised by the improved ergonomics of the shifters. Thinner and more sporty, they fit the shape of the palm much better and allow for grips without requiring as much force on the fingers. This is a major plus because it also allows people with smaller hands, and many women, for example, who tend to have more compact hands, to feel more confident gripping the shifters. I think this change conveys a sporty feel that perfectly aligns with the fast gravel philosophy that the American company has aimed to instill in its new groupset. Another aspect that is very impressive is the precision and quietness with which the chain moves on the cassette every time we use the buttons on the shifters or the Blips. I have the impression that the advanced chain management with Orbit and Flattop technology has a lot to do with it, and in this 40-tooth single chainring version with a 10-44 cassette, the large X-SYNC shift pulleys offer great efficiency. Overall, I find the shifting intuitive, with the same logic as the eTap, allowing for extensive adjustment and customization, not only in the brake levers via Reach Adjust to accommodate different finger lengths, but also with compatibility with the rest of the SRAM AXS ecosystem, enabling countless combinations, including the possibility of a mullet shifter setup, as we saw a couple of months ago when I introduced this groupset. Brakes 03:00 I really liked the power and progressive feel of the hydraulic brakes, and this Checkpoint unit I tested came with 160mm rotors. The new Force AXS calipers use the same type of organic pads as the previous two-piece Force eTap AXS calipers and offer good braking sensitivity whether you're using the levers from the climbers or the dropper post. Who is it for? 04:59 Upon closer inspection of this Force AXS, the premium gray/black finish with rainbow-colored accents stands out, adding a touch of vibrancy and personality to the overall design. It's an interesting option for those seeking cutting-edge wireless technology at a good price. To give you an idea, the single-chainring drivetrain without a power meter is available from €1,715 including VAT, and the single-chainring version with a power meter starts at €2,017, also including VAT. I think if you're looking for a quiet and precise gravel bike, it's a great fit for varied and even mountainous terrain. However, with this variant, you should be aware that single-chainring drivetrains require a good level of fitness if you plan to venture into the more challenging world of mountain biking or if you intend to use it with extra weight for bikepacking trips or ultra-distance events with bags. That said, the drivetrain is incredibly smooth and makes me want to try the double-chainring version to see if I'd choose this single-chainring setup or something with a wider range to incorporate some road riding as well. The truth is, wireless drivetrain technology is fantastic in terms of ergonomics and adjustment options, although it's true that it's still out of reach for those on a tight budget. But it points in a clear direction, greatly simplifying cable integration by eliminating them and offering very interesting accessories like Blips, which allow for maximum customization of the shifting areas and which I'm a big fan of. BGRAVEL.BIKE Channel GRAVEL, BIKEPACKING, BIKE TOURING, BIKE ADVENTURE, MOUNTAIN BIKE, CYCLING Buy the BIKEPACKING MANUAL: https://amzn.to/366x6HI