SRAM never stands still. The stiff competition forces evolution, refinement, new features, and better quality across all price points. SRAM truly leads the way forward. Even the legendary 1:1 efficiency of the rear derailleur has been put through the wringer. The X1 11 Speed X-Horizon Type 2.1 Rear Derailleur has an impressively long name, but more importantly, new features and components that make it more efficient; reduces friction, shift force, and chain slap, eliminates ghost shifting, and the cage even locks out of the way for easier, faster wheel changes. Now that is refinement. A bevy of new designs and technology make it all come together for results that will be immediately noticeable on the trail.

Let's start with the cage. The new X-Horizon concept features a straight parallelogram design. This limits movement along the horizontal axis, meaning no more ghost shifting under load. It also results in efficiency, reducing the shift force required by the 1x11 X-Actuation shifter. The long cage design offers room for a larger upper pulley offset, which reduces friction with the two 12t X-Sync pulleys and improves chain management from pulley to pulley while maintaining a constant chain gap across all cog sizes. That all sounds confusing, but basically the chain maintains a more consistent contact with the cogs and pulleys, which reduces drag and minimizes possibility of slack under load.

The Roller Bearing Clutch is integrated into the main cage pivot bolt assembly. Clutches aren't new, but this one has simple push button. It just keeps the derailleur from bouncing, which eliminates chain slap without adding major drag to the drive train. The Cage Lock feature allows you to push the cage forward to create chain slack and lock the cage for cleaner, easier wheel changes. The lock button sits on the housing just below the clutch lock. Simply push the cage forward, push the button, then push again to unlock after you deal with the wheel.

The improvements found in the Type 2.1 derailleurs are rational, functional, and create a better experience. Every cyclist can appreciate SRAM's dedication in this approach. The locking features add very little weight over the previous generation, but your overall derailleur capability has significantly improved. Now with the X1 series 11 Speed X-Horizon Type 2.1 Rear Derailleur, the cost and efficiency of 1x shifting systems is now in reach for more many more riders.