With the release of SRAM's second generation eTap wireless electronic shifting system, AXS 12-speed, SRAM fan's will be overjoyed that the their is now a Force-level version that is more cost effective, yet offers all of the same road Red AXS (think "Access") and mountain Eagle AXS features and compatibility. Following the success of their 11-speed e-Tap box kits, SRAM makes it easier to buy the essential wireless components for each desired set-up. The rim brake Force eTap AXS Electronic Groupset is available in 1x or 2x drivetrain versions. With the former, you get the Force eTap AXS shifters, rear derailleur and one rechargeable battery. For the 2x you also get the front derailleur and a second battery. Both groups include the USB based battery charging system. The entire eTap AXS system is supported by the AXS app, which allows you to connect, set-up, update, and monitor your Force AXS via BLE connection with your smartphone or computer.

The nature of eTap's original shift logic was pre-configured and not customizable. AXS gives you that capability and the clean, easily used AXS app. SRAM. The Force AXS 12-speed components, sure to be a go-to group for gravel and cross, are meant to be streamlined, so there is only one rear derailleur option, which can handle any and all of the 1x or 2x crankset set-ups, as well as any of the available 12-speed road cassette sizes. The rear derailleur utilizes many familiar SRAM technologies for 12-speed, including increased gear range via X-Range, larger X-Sync pulleys, and the new Orbit cage and chain control system. Orbit is a new type of clutch system that utilizes a fluid damper that will not add any pressure on the cage spring at low speed or light loads, making shifting and rear wheel removal easier, but is more active at speed, keeping the chain controlled. This is surely a a key for 1x use, but actually helps drivetrain efficiency and shifts with 2x as well.

The Force eTap Shift/Brake levers for rim brake builds feature a streamlined lever body with excellent ergonomics and efficient brake lever pull. Each lever contains a CR2032 battery for sending signals to the eTap AXS system and has a single port for a Blip accessory shifter. The AXS app allows you determine to your preference which shift action is controlled by which button. Reach Adjust also allows to customize the physical lever set-up for different size hands. You'll notice that the eTap shift paddles are larger with better ergonomics for pure tactile comfort and response. SRAM supplies brake cables, housing and fittings for the rim brake set-up.

When you choose the 2x option the boxed group includes the braze-on mount Force eTap AXS Front Derailleur. Besides the simplicity of crisp eTap shifting, the FD also carries forth SRAM's Yaw trimless cage technology, now with an optimized cage profile for new chainring combinations and streamlined body structure that works better with wider frames and increased tire clearance. The battery is protected and sealed against the elements while delivering precise shift after precise shift.

SRAM's AXS 12-speed eTap system utilizes the same battery system as the 11-speed version, which may or may not be a selling feature, but is surely useful for those who have both set-ups. The batteries charge in about 60 minutes via a USB powered and connected dock. LED lights on the cradle give you quick visual feedback. Battery life varies with the number of shifts, but the easily installed/removed batteries make regular charging at home or work a simple exercise. Remember that the 1x group comes with one battery set-up, while the 2x version comes with two.

With the electronics supplied here, you will still need the 1x or 2x crankset and bottom bracket of your choice, Force or Red rim brakeset, 12-speed Flattop chain and 12-speed Force or Red XG cassette. Keep in mind that if you want or need more range you can combine 1x drivetrain components with Eagle 12 AXS mountain options. We can easily see the Force 1x AXS groupset becoming a go-to product as the technology is the same as Red, with down-spec in materials, but at a much more reasonable price. 1x drivetrains suit gravel, cross, and commuter bikes perfectly and these are all growing categories. Take advantage of SRAM's wireless eTap AXS shifting and 12-speed excellence for much less money than Red eTap AXS, and get all the same technology with Force. Return to Top