I have a 2025 Checkpoint SL6 frame ready to build up, and not entirely sure what to run with. My current gravel bike has 2×11 GRX, set up with 30/46 chainrings and an 11-34 cassette. Riding is a mix of road and gravel. I definitely prefer Shimanos brake feel but am impartial to mechanical vs electric- Xt mech is my favorite flat bar set up.
Anyways, original plan was just to bump the di2 group over to the Checkpoint. Then it hit me, is it time to see how the other side lives? An AXS t-type mullet with Force D1 levers is not too expensive, however all the rage is that the new E1 design shifter is much better and by buying D1, the resale cliff is about to further plummet. Red E1 is too rich for my blood however it seems like ForceE1 is near…. A part of me is also strongly leaning GRX Mechanical, since its operating costs are much lower (cassettes, mineral oil & brake pads I have stocked) and i like XT mechanical’s tactile shifts.
I guess boiled down, anyone ever try both GRX 820 Mechanical and a D1 gen SRAM mullet? Should I just move my di2 to the checkpoint and wait out shimano and sram for their 2025 updates?
by anothercyclingburner
2 Comments
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I’d wait for new Force shifters and temporarily get XPLR Rival derailleur and cassette with whatever crank.
When they drop down 13 speed to Force or Rival with direct mount, get that.
Personally, I’d move your current stuff over and when the cheaper 13 speed XPLR stuff drops, get that or just get the Force shifters and a cheaper 12 speed xplr like Apex or Rival in the meantime.