The market for top-end road bike components is getting quite competitive, with new entries coming from Rotor with its hydraulic-shifting UNO group, and from FSA with its new electronic K-Force groupset. SRAM isn’t content to rest on the success of its wireless electronic eTap group, and has expanded the reach and range of its rear derailleur.
SRAM has just announced a new RED eTap WiFli rear derailleur that now accommodates a wider gear range, up to a 32T cassette. The announcement is also a nod to our readers who typically want or need lower gearing than typical road gearing.
The WiFli technology fits a wider gear range than a short-cage derailleur including traditional 11-30T and 11-32T cassettes. The updated design also optimizes chain gap for better shifting across the gear range. Of course, it still incorporates SRAM’s eTap shift logic and is designed to work with SRAM PowerGlide and PowerdomeX cassettes. The wireless connection (via AIREA network) provides a fast and clean installation.
Close-up of the new SRAM RED eTap WiFli rear derailleur.
The new RED eTap WiFli rear derailleur is compatible with eTap shift-brake controls, is SRAM 11-speed compatible and has a 32T maximum capacity. The derailleur weighs a claimed 219 grams without the battery and 243 grams with battery.
The new RED eTap WiFli derailleur will be a welcome addition for cyclocross and gravel racers, as it will allow lower and wider gear ranges for the steeper off-road climbs seen on some courses, especially if you don’t have the strength of Wout van Aert [see his SRAM eTap-equipped Colnago here].
Now 1X cyclocross racers are just waiting for a clutch-based version.
SRAM RED eTap WiFli upgrade kit: RED 11-speed chain, XG1190 11-32 cassette, RED eTap WiFli rear derailleur.
The price on the rear derailleur alone is $610 USD and for the upgrade kit (SRAM RED eTap WiFLi Rear Derailleur and Battery, SRAM XG-1190 11-32 Cassette, SRAM RED 22 Chain), the price is $920 USD. Both options will be available December of this year.
First Look Video of SRAM eTap:
Cannondale SuperSix EVO equipped with SRAM’s RED eTap WiFli © Victor Lucas
More info: sram.com
