Are you ready to take your mountain bike shifting to the next level? If so, you’ll want to check out the new SRAM GX Eagle Transmission groupset, the latest and most affordable entry in the revolutionary Transmission ecosystem. This groupset uses a direct-mount derailleur that eliminates the need for a hanger, a cassette with a smooth and consistent tooth profile, and a wireless AXS shifter that lets you control your gears with a click of a button. The result is a drivetrain that shifts flawlessly under any load, in any condition, and with minimal maintenance. Sounds amazing, right? Read on to find out more about the features, specs, and performance of the SRAM GX Eagle Transmission groupset.
What is Transmission and why should you care?
Transmission is SRAM’s new drivetrain concept that turns the traditional derailleur on its head. Instead of using a hanger to attach the derailleur to the frame, Transmission uses a direct-mount interface that connects the derailleur to the rear axle. This means that the derailleur is always aligned with the cassette, regardless of frame tolerances, impacts, or wear and tear. It also means that you don’t have to worry about adjusting the b-tension, limit screws, or cable tension, as the derailleur is self-calibrating and has a simple setup process. All you need is a SRAM UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger) dropout on your frame, which is compatible with most modern bikes.
The benefits of Transmission are not only in the derailleur, but also in the cassette and the chain. The cassette has a revised tooth profile that keeps the chain fully engaged with the cogs at all times, allowing for smooth and precise shifts under heavy load. The cassette also has a 520% gear range, with 12 speeds from 10 to 52 teeth, and a red setup cog that helps with installation. The chain has a flat-top design that reduces noise and friction, and a chrome-hardened inner link and a nickel-plated outer link for durability. The chain also has a powerlock connector link and solid pins for easy installation and removal.
The cherry on top of the Transmission cake is the wireless AXS shifter, which uses SRAM’s proven technology to communicate with the derailleur via radio signals. The shifter has a two-button design that is interchangeable and flippable, so you can choose which side and orientation you prefer. The shifter also has a micro-adjust feature that lets you fine-tune the derailleur position for each gear, either with the buttons or with the AXS app. The shifter and the derailleur run on rechargeable batteries that last for several rides and can be swapped easily.
How does the GX Eagle Transmission compare to the other Transmission groupsets?
SRAM launched the Transmission concept with the XX SL, XX, and XO Eagle Transmission groupsets, which are the premium options for the most discerning riders. The GX Eagle Transmission groupset is the more budget-friendly option, but it still shares the same core features and benefits as the higher-end models. The main differences are in the materials, weight, and price.
The GX Eagle Transmission derailleur is made of forged aluminum and steel, and has a slightly different shape and battery position than the XX and XO derailleurs. The GX derailleur also has a two-piece outer link and replaceable skid plates, which make it more durable and serviceable. The GX derailleur weighs 462 grams, which is 82 grams more than the XO derailleur and 112 grams more than the XX derailleur.
The GX Eagle Transmission cassette is also made of steel and aluminum, and has a similar tooth profile and gear range as the XX and XO cassettes. The GX cassette weighs 480 grams, which is 70 grams more than the XO cassette and 120 grams more than the XX cassette.
The GX Eagle Transmission crankset is made of forged aluminum and has a DUB spindle and an 8-bolt direct mount chainring. The GX crankset also has two removable bash guards that protect the chainring from impacts. The GX crankset weighs 734 grams, which is 111 grams more than the XO crankset and 191 grams more than the XX crankset.
The GX Eagle Transmission chain is made of steel and has a flat-top design and a silver finish. The GX chain weighs 270 grams, which is 10 grams more than the XO chain and 20 grams more than the XX chain.
The GX Eagle Transmission shifter is identical to the XX and XO shifters, and weighs 70 grams with the matchmaker clamp.
The total weight of the GX Eagle Transmission groupset with the crankset and the bottom bracket is 2,042 grams, which is 273 grams more than the XO groupset and 443 grams more than the XX groupset.
The total price of the GX Eagle Transmission groupset with the crankset and the bottom bracket is £1,300 / $1,600 / €1,500, which is £700 / $800 / €800 less than the XO groupset and £1,300 / $1,600 / €1,500 less than the XX groupset.
How does the GX Eagle Transmission perform on the trail?
We tested the GX Eagle Transmission groupset on both an e-MTB and a regular mountain bike, and we were blown away by the performance. The shifting was smooth, fast, and consistent, regardless of the terrain, speed, or power. We could shift under full load, in the middle of a climb, or on a rough descent, and the drivetrain never missed a beat. The shifter was easy to use and comfortable to reach, and the micro-adjust feature was handy to fine-tune the shifting on the fly. The drivetrain was also very quiet and smooth, with no chain slap or skipping.
The durability and reliability of the GX Eagle Transmission groupset was also impressive. We rode the groupset in all kinds of conditions, from dust and mud to rain and snow, and we never had to adjust or maintain anything. The derailleur stayed in perfect alignment with the cassette, and the chain and the cogs showed no signs of wear or corrosion. The battery life was also very good, lasting for several rides before needing a recharge. The shifter battery lasted even longer, and we never had to worry about running out of juice.
The only minor drawback of the GX Eagle Transmission groupset was the weight, which was noticeable compared to the regular GX Eagle AXS groupset. However, we felt that the weight penalty was worth it for the improved shifting performance, durability, and ease of use. We also liked the look and feel of the GX Eagle Transmission groupset, which was sleek and sturdy, and matched well with our bikes.
Is the GX Eagle Transmission groupset worth it?
If you are looking for a drivetrain that will take your mountain bike shifting to the next level, the GX Eagle Transmission groupset is definitely worth it. It offers a smooth, precise, and consistent shifting experience, with minimal maintenance and hassle. It also has a great gear range, a wireless shifter, and a durable and serviceable derailleur. It may be heavier and more expensive than the regular GX Eagle AXS groupset, but it is still more affordable and comparable to the higher-end Transmission groupsets. The GX Eagle Transmission groupset is a game-changer for MTB shifting, and we highly recommend it.
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