SRAM Force AXS

Hannah Bussey puts SRAM's latest groupset through its paces

- Hannah Bussey

£2,192 | 2,896g

CHAIN RETENTION The Orbit fluid damper system in the rear mech seemingly did its job throughout the test period. I didn't drop a chain despite riding, at times, on some pretty dodgy road surfaces

INTEGRATED POWER METER While I question the logic of an integrated power meter that has to be discarded when you replace the chainrings, it has allowed SRAM to deliver a meter that's both lightweight and accurate

YAW FRONT MECH SRAM's AXS front mechs still use its YAW technology, which, unlike traditional derailleurs, rotates as it shifts, which is designed to eliminate chain rub and does away with the need for any trim facility

REDESIGNED HOOD The redesigned Force hoods are unquestionably slimmer than before. SRAM says this makes them a better fit for a wider range of hand sizes. The shifter paddles have been updated too, created to offer improved clearance across a range of hand positions

POWERFUL BRAKES I've always been impressed by the power of SRAM's hydraulic disc brakes and these were no different. The undulating terrain of the Peak District, with its long descents, really tests both the modulation and | stopping power of any braking system and Force more than met the challenge

It's been four years since SRAM Force AXS was released, when it gained an extra sprocket, becoming a wireless 12-speed groupset. This latest iteration sees fewer changes, but does deliver one-piece chainrings, an integrated power meter, redesigned hoods and new graphics.

Being designed as a 'do-it-all' groupset for both road and gravel use means an extensive line in chainset offerings, with both 1x and 2x of various sizes, as well as a patented 'wide' version, which features a wider chainline to accommodate wider tyres.