Summary
The author initially believed a 2x (double chainring) drivetrain was necessary for a do-it-all gravel bike. However, after testing the SRAM Red AXS XPLR 1x groupset on the Cervelo C68 gravel bike for three weeks, they have become a convert to the 1x (single chainring) system. The 1x drivetrain offers simplicity, reduced weight, greater tire clearance, and sufficient gear range for most gravel riding conditions, with the XPLR group providing an excellent balance of gear spacing.
Key claims
- The author was previously convinced that a 2x drivetrain was superior for a versatile gravel bike.
- The SRAM Red AXS XPLR 1x groupset has convinced the author that 1x drivetrains are optimal for gravel riding.
- 1x drivetrains offer significant advantages in simplicity, weight, and tire clearance compared to 2x systems.
- The gear spacing on the SRAM XPLR group is sufficient and well-balanced for varied gravel terrain.
- A 1x 44t chainring with the 10-44t cassette is suggested as a sweet spot for a balance of climbing and high-speed riding.
- The author intends to transition to a 1x drivetrain for future gravel bike builds.
Entities mentioned
- sram — SRAM’s gravel-specific groupsets, particularly the AXS XPLR line, are central to the author’s re-evaluation of 1x drivetrains for gravel bikes.
- sram_red_axs_xplr — This specific groupset was tested by the author and served as the catalyst for their change of opinion regarding 1x drivetrains.
- cervelo_c68 — This bike served as the test platform for the author’s evaluation of the SRAM XPLR groupset.
- specialized_crux — Used as an example to demonstrate how a 1x drivetrain can allow for greater tire clearance compared to a 2x setup on the same frame.
- wahoo_kickr_move — Mentioned as a subject for upcoming content, indicating a broader interest in cycling technology and training.
Concepts covered
- 1x_drivetrain — The author’s analysis focuses on the suitability and advantages of 1x drivetrains for gravel biking, challenging their previous assumptions.
- 2x_drivetrain — Historically considered the standard for versatile road and gravel bikes, the author contrasts the perceived benefits of 2x systems with the emerging advantages of 1x.
- gear_spacing — The author highlights gear spacing as a critical factor in drivetrain performance, particularly noting issues with large jumps in previous ‘mullet’ setups and finding the SRAM XPLR spacing to be a significant improvement.
- tire_clearance — The author emphasizes that 1x drivetrains can significantly increase tire clearance, which is crucial for gravel riding as wider tires offer better traction and comfort on varied terrain.
- gravel_bike_drivetrains — This is the central theme of the source, exploring the evolution and suitability of different drivetrain configurations for gravel riding.
Contradictions or open questions
The author explicitly states they were ‘WRONG!’ about their previous belief favoring 2x drivetrains for gravel, indicating a significant shift in their understanding and opinion.
Source
bfhROtXwVsU_1x_vs_2x___I_was_WRONG_.txt