SRAM aims to further simplify entry into the world of 11-speed drivetrains and has therefore developed the new SRAM X1 , the latest and most affordable addition to the 11-speed family. Drawing on the accumulated know-how of the previous XX1 and X01 groups, SRAM has refined the proven 11-speed groupset once again. Customers don't have to forgo the familiar technology, however. Only the production methods and materials used have been adapted for the X1, making it significantly cheaper than the XX1 , though also slightly heavier.
The biggest change compared to the XX1 is in the crankset. SRAM offers three different aluminum cranksets for the X1 groupset: the X1 1400 , the X1 1200 , and the X1 1000 , the latter being reserved for the OEM market. These differ primarily in their manufacturing process. The X1 1400, already familiar from the X01 groupset and continued in the X1 series, is hollow-forged. The X1 1000, on the other hand, is not hollow-forged, which immediately impacts its weight: it weighs 50 grams more.
X1 1400: 800 grams - 233 euros
X1 1200: 830 grams - OEM customers only
X1 1000: 850 grams - 177 euros
The X1 derailleur uses the same technology as the XX1 and X01 groups. It's available in black and weighs only four grams more than the more expensive versions. The derailleurs differ in bearing quality and surface finish, but this shouldn't negatively affect shifting performance. The X1 derailleur costs €205, making it a full €75 cheaper than the more expensive XX1 version. The same applies to the new chain. The hollow pins have been eliminated, adding only six grams to the weight, but now costing just €33. One drawback: its different surface finish means it will wear out faster.
The chainrings also differ only visually. As with the X01 , the rider can choose between chainrings with 30-38 teeth. These also feature X Sync technology, eliminating the need for a chain guide. However, the small 28-tooth chainring remains exclusive to the high-end XX1 groupset . At €93, it is also only slightly cheaper than its predecessors.
Perhaps the most significant difference compared to SRAM's more expensive 11-speed drivetrains lies in the cassette. While these are usually milled from a single block of steel, only the three smallest sprockets on the X1 are machined from a single piece. The remaining sprockets are riveted, but the cassette offers the same familiar gear ratios of 10-12-14-16-18-21-24-28-32-36-42 teeth. It weighs 55 grams more than the XX1 cassette, bringing it to 315 grams. The less complex manufacturing process also reduces the price. At €278, it's certainly not a bargain, but a full €112 cheaper than the more expensive model.