This is my 2024 Marin Gestalt XR. It originally came with Sram Apex 12spd mechanical but this winter I upgraded to a mixed bag Sram AXS groupset. The mullet groupset consists of Rival eTap HRD shifters, GX AXS derailleur, and an XG1275 10-52 cassette. I chose a mullet groupset so that I could continue to run the larger range cassettes such as the 10-52. I’ve put about 600 miles on the groupset with no issues.
Setup was incredibly smooth and easy, the AXS ecosystem works together very well. Pairing my components was as straightforward as the Sram installation guides show. All my hardware was an easy swap with no changes needed. I reused my existing hydraulic brakes hoses but completely flushed them before reconnecting to the new Rival calipers. From initial setup, I did have to tune the shifting. The micro shift adjustments really make that process so easy compared to a mechanical groupset.
The first few rides were definitely an adjustment, mostly since the Apex 12spd mechanical had double tap shifting. Shifting is smooth and effortless. The short throws and dedicated paddles make it really easy to shift while climbing or riding technical terrain. I ride a lot of single track on my gravel bike so it was really nice to move back to separate controls for shift functions. Along with that, the Rival calipers have been a welcome improvement over the Apex calipers. Improved stopping power and better ergonomics from the Rival hoods.
I charge my battery maybe once a week but could easily get significantly more battery life out of it between charges. I ride about 10 hrs a week give or take; I’d say I’m usually around the 50% mark when I finally charge again. I have not once felt like I would have issues with battery life as long as I stay consistent with charging.
The two biggest improvements over my mechanical groupsets would be the peace of mind and tuning simplicity. I don’t have to worry about cables, housings, or any of the hardline elements of a mechanical groupset. This allows less maintenance as well as easier troubleshooting. The time I spend tuning my other mechanical 12spd groupsets can often be very frustrating. This directly eliminates potential issues in the system with no worry about cable stretch, cable tension, housing friction, etc. For my own personal experience and riding, it makes it more streamlined and less to think about.
I sourced my mullet groupset from Pro Bike Supply’s online store. They sell complete mullet groupsets among the different Sram tiers including shifters, brakes, derailleur, cassette, and chain. I was very pleased with their shipping and customer service support. I’m not affiliated with them but would happily recommend them to anyone else. Thanks y’all.
by fivewords5
1 Comment
Best upgrade!