As SRAM rolls out the Red eTap AXS system over the first half of 2019, please be aware that some options and sizes will have limited or staggered release availability as SRAM delivers it's full complement of Red AXS components. Please contact us at 800.627.6664 or sales@excelsports.com with questions on updated timelines and availability. In some cases, the SRAM boxed kits are the best way to meet your eTap AXS needs.

SRAM developed their X-Range drivetrain concept to integrate the new shifting parameters of the Red AXS system, whether running 1x12 or 2x12 set-up. Every piece, from the chainrings, chain, and cassette through the electronic precision of the AXS wireless shifting protocol and the required derailleurs have been set-up to fully optimize the new chainring options with the XG-1290 X-Range 12 Speed cassette. The brains of eTap AXS identify the proper shift windows and gates based on gearing and set-up, the new Flattop chain was developed for the X-range teeth profiles, all to make the most precise, perfectly timed and super smooth shift.

The one-piece, machined steel X-Dome™ cassette structure draws on all of SRAM experience with hollow and one-piece machined designs going back to the original Red10 PowerDome. Keeping the unit, light, strong, and resilient to severe chainline stress, the engineers truly brought all their skills to bear with the Red AXS XG-1290 12 Speed Cassette. The unit is not just about light weight and strength, but about X-Range. The more gradual gear progression between cogs, with at least five 1-tooth jumps makes for smoother, faster, more precise shifts. Of course X-Range relies on a 10T small cog to best match the new Red AXS chainring offerings, which necessitates the need for a SRAM XDR driver for the rear hub. XDR was designed specifically for road 12-speed cassettes.

The XDR interface is 1.85mm longer than XD and is designed for road hub applications. XDR maintains the same hub spacing and flange locations used for 11-speed road compatible HyperGlide (Shimano standard) freehub bodies. XDR driver bodies are compatible with all mountain XD cassettes when the cassette is installed with a 1.85mm spacer behind it. Many hub and wheel systems offer XDR freehub body options as SRAM has licensed it to more than 80 wheel and hub manufacturers.

SRAM is offering the Red AXS XG-1290 12 Speed Cassette in the following combinations: 10-26, 10-28, 10-33. You can see the cog progressions in the details below. The combos are considered the most efficient and proper options for the road Red AXS chainring options, which are 46/33, 48/35, 50/37.