SRAM X-Glide 1090 cyclocross cassette released, offers more mud clearance
SRAM has widely released its new 2012 SRAM Red component group this year (see our initial 2012 SRAM Red review), and while even some 2013 model year bikes still feature the 2011 Red group, most SRAM-sponsored professional cyclocross racers have upgraded at least some of their components to the newer 2012 Red components.
One component that has been kept off many pro cyclocross bikes is the stunningly light and quiet XG 1090 road cassette, because the cassette has very few cut-outs for mud evacuation, and its elastomer pads that quiet chain noise compromise mud clearance between the cogs. But at 151g, the cassette remains attractive for the weight weenie racer in dry climates.
A spy shot of an early SRAM 1090 XG cyclocross cassette we captured at CrossVegas. ©Cyclocross Magazine
At CrossVegas, we snapped a photo of a prototype of the new cyclocross version of the SRAM XG 1090 cassette, and as shown above, the cassette features extensive cutouts for mud evacuation. It lacks the elastomer pads, but features more space between the cogs, and major openings on all but the smallest cogs for mud clearance.
The XG 1090 cyclocross cassette comes in a 12-27 configuration.
Removing the pads and material, you might expect the cassette to be even lighter than the road version, but published weights indicate it will be just 8g heavier at 159g — still a good third of a pound lighter than common cassettes. Racers like pro U.S. Cyclocross National Champions Jeremy Powers and Katie Compton have tested the cassette with good success, and now the new product is in production and will be in stores in December. Full press release below.
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SRAM has redesigned its innovative Powerdome X road cassette specifically for ‘cross. The new X-Glide (XG) 1090 Cyclocross Cassette features an innovative design with hundreds of open ports for improved mud clearing capabilities. Along with the most requested gearing of 12-27, ‘cross riders now have a single perfect cassette choice.
SRAM X-Glide XG 1090 CX cyclocross cassette aims to help serious racers shed grams and mud.
SRAM’s new XG 1090 Cyclocross cassette’s open design comes from additional milling between the gear steps, as well as a more open backing plate. Water, mud, and contaminants can easily be flushed through the cassette and shifting quality is maintained. The new cassette starts with the 12-tooth gear, which is what our professional ‘cross riders have requested.
“I love it, not only because its light, but the gear ratios are better. The jump from one cog to the next is smaller so I never feel like I‘m in too big or too small of a gear. plus the open design will be perfect for Belgian mud,” said US Cyclocross National Champion Katie Compton.
US National Cyclocross Champion Jeremy Powers said, “I love the fact that SRAM listens to athletes and so much of their innovation is based on what we need.”
Material: High Grade Tool Steel Cog Cluster, Heat Treated Aluminum, Lowest Range Cog
Weight: 159g
Speeds: 10
Cassette ratio: 12-27 (12-13-14-15-16-17-19-21-24-27)
Recommended Group: SRAM RED / Force / Rival / Apex – Industry standard 10 speeds systems
MSRP: €300 / $335
Availability: December 2012
More info: www.sram.com
