A year ago at Press Camp, SRAM unveiled its latest 22-speed drivetrain: the Rival, designed with some of the latest trickle-down technology from the Red and Force groups. While we were able to get a first ride on the new equipment during the event, we have spent a full year with the workingman's group, giving it a full review in Issue 28.
Since then, Rival has entered the realm of more options, now being offered as a single chainring drivetrain as SRAM released at 2015 Sea Otter. While the single chainring set up is becoming popular for cyclocross, many riders find the benefits of a double, especially when training on the road, and the Rival 22 remains one of the more affordable and versatile groups on the market.
Today, we offer Clifford Lee's full review from Issue 28, including the our observations for the weight of the set as well as a final verdict. For more quality content like this, be sure to order your backcopy today, which is also available on Uberflip, in the App Store on iTunes, and on Google Play for Android.
Use the slider below for the detailed review on each part. More info: sram.com
Verdict:
How could we not recommend the more affordable SRAM Rival 22 groupset that can deliver equivalent performance of the groupsets above it for a surprisingly low weight difference? Most of that weight gain is with the crankset, so that would be the first upgrade for the weight conscious. Based on construction, fit, and finish, it should provide excellent durability, no less than its other race grade siblings. If you like SRAM’s ergonomics and function, then the Rival 22 components deserve your close attention.
The Rival 22 Groupset. © Cyclocross Magazine
SRAM Rival 22 specs:
Rival 22 Full Group Price: $1250-$1298 depending on options (if purchased separately)
HydroR Lever w/ Caliper: $384 per side; Left total: 376 grams; Right total: 398 grams
Centerline Rotor: $44, 88 grams for 140mm, $55, 112 grams for 160mm
Crank (GXP): $192, 844 grams (stock with 50/34 chainrings)
Crank (BB30): $218, 860 grams (stock with 50/34 chainrings), Actual 836 grams with 43/36 chainrings installed
Rear Derailleur: $59, 178 grams
Front Derailleur: $38, 79 grams
1130 Cassette: $76, 310 grams
1130 Chain: $29, 259 grams
More info: sram.com
