It’s evolution, not revolution for SRAM’s second-tier groupset

By Paul Norman

Published: Wednesday, 01 March 2023 at 12:00 am


The new SRAM Force eTap AXS groupset sees updates to the shifters, cranksets and front derailleur, alongside new shiny graphics.

There is a change to naming conventions, with SRAM dropping eTap from the groupset’s name – so, henceforth, it’s just SRAM Force AXS.

SRAM has made minimal or no changes to many of the other components for the second generation of its second-tier 12-speed electronic road bike groupset.

SRAM introduced Force eTap AXS 12-speed in 2019, not long after its range-topping Red eTap AXS. Force eTap AXS shares many of the features of the Red wireless 12-speed groupset, but at a more affordable price.

In April 2021 Rival eTap AXS was released. It’s fair to say Rival has taken up a lot of the space occupied previously by Force, with many brands promoting Rival eTap AXS as an electronic groupset option on their mid-tier bikes.

Here, we’ll run through the each of components of the second-generation Force AXS 12-speed groupset, their weights and prices. Take a look too at Liam Cahill’s SRAM Force AXS first ride review and his assessment of the new groupset.

How does the new groupset ride? You can read our SRAM Force AXS first ride review to find out.