The big tech news this week has been the launch of SRAM’s new 12-speed Red eTap AXS electronic groupset. This has a range of cassette options with a 10 tooth smallest sprocket, which give you a higher top end gear with a 48 tooth chainring than a 52-11 combo. Going up to 33 teeth on the largest sprocket, the lowest gear range is extended too, while the smaller front rings lower system weight.
SRAM Red eTap AXS: faster shifting, smaller chainrings and power meter options
Also included in the mix is a new power meter option, an app to customise things and, of course, you benefit from the easy set-up and management of SRAM’s wireless electronic shifting. We’ve an in depth look and first ride report for SRAM 12-speed.
Leading brands are launching bikes with SRAM's new groupset
(Image credit: Marco Peruzzo)
There’s already been a host of bike brands queuing up to announce machines equipped with the new groupset. We’ve profiled the bikes available from the likes of Canyon, Cervélo and Pinarello. And 3T has launched both two ring and single ring AXS specs of its Exploro and Strada.
A new folder and latest tech video
In folding e-bike news, Gocycle has launched a new fast-folding version of its novel e-bike. The GX folds in its centre for a super-quick size reduction. Cleverly, the front and rear wheel end up next to each other, allowing you to push or pull the folded bike around easily. We’ve also reviewed the Gocycle GS this week – it uses the same five spoke wheels and drive system as the new Gocycle GX.
Endura's skinsuit - too fast for the UCI
Endura’s skinsuit is surface treated to make it faster – so it was banned by the UCI. Now Graeme Obree has run through a few other things that the UCI has banned – from the superman position to long socks. Like tri bikes you can still buy the Endura Drag 2 Zero skinsuit, just not use it in UCI-sanctioned competitions.
Plus our Tech of the Month video for February brings you our views on Le Col’s first cycling shoes, Castelli’s new go-faster Aero Race kit, as worn by Team Sky, the Smith Wildcat and Flywheel sunglasses, with their extra-large lenses and the Triban RC520 endurance bike from Decathlon.
We've also given you reasons why you might want to venture outdoors, as well as the usual deals and bargains.
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Paul started writing for Cycling Weekly in 2015, covering cycling tech, new bikes and product testing. Since then, he’s reviewed hundreds of bikes and thousands of other pieces of cycling equipment for the magazine and the Cycling Weekly website.
He’s been cycling for a lot longer than that though and his travels by bike have taken him all around Europe and to California. He’s been riding gravel since before gravel bikes existed too, riding a cyclocross bike through the Chilterns and along the South Downs.
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