SRAM Apex AXS groupset review: is this low-end groupset a new high for electronic shifting?

A $1300 wireless electronic groupset? Yes please! Save your money for a decent wheelset instead

Right shifter of the SRAM Apex AXS groupset
(Image credit: Future)
Cycling Weekly Verdict

Trickle-down technology is a beautiful thing. I realize that many would overlook an entry-level groupset when looking for an upgrade, but SRAM Apex AXS is a superb groupset that delivers reliable, electronic shifting and powerful braking at an entry-level price.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Reliable, electronic shifting

  • +

    Affordable power meter option

  • +

    Only 100g more than Rival AXS

  • +

    Parts are upgradable as long as derailleur, chain and cassette correspond

  • +

    Groupset helps bring down cost of complete builds

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Heavy cassette and chainring

  • -

    Smallest gear is 11T, which is a 10% gearing loss from the other AXS groups

  • -

    1x only

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Trickle-down technology is a beautiful thing, and it may have taken SRAM eight years to get here but this season, the American component manufacturer (finally) introduced a wireless electronic groupset at the entry level.

For those unfamiliar with SRAM's product hierarchy, 'Red' identifies the top-tier products followed by 'Force'. Then there's 'Rival' and 'Apex' as the entry-level tiers. 

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