{"id":249,"date":"2025-06-26T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-26T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.citrus-lime.com\/rmcy\/?p=249"},"modified":"2025-11-27T15:46:26","modified_gmt":"2025-11-27T15:46:26","slug":"sram-force-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.citrus-lime.com\/rmcy\/sram-force-review\/","title":{"rendered":"Sram Force Review"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

SRAM has just unveiled its latest update to the Force AXS groupset, and it\u2019s more than just a cosmetic refresh. Borrowing heavily from the top-tier Red AXS, the new Force is now slimmer, lighter, more ergonomic, and arguably one of the most versatile wireless drivetrains on the market. Designed to appeal to road, endurance, and gravel riders alike, this version marks a true evolution of the mid-tier AXS offering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whats New<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Red-Inspired Levers & Ergonomics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most noticeable change comes in the shift levers. SRAM has adopted the new design language from the updated Red AXS\u2014introducing slimmer, more compact hoods, reprofiled grips, and lighter carbon blades. These new hoods are especially friendly for riders with smaller hands or those who prefer a more relaxed grip on long rides. There\u2019s also the welcome addition of wireless \u201cBonus Buttons\u201d on the levers for customizable auxiliary shifting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Direct-Mount One-Piece Chainrings<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In line with Red, the double chainring cranksets now use SRAM\u2019s direct-mount, one-piece chainrings. This brings a major weight saving\u2014around 83 grams\u2014and adds stiffness and responsiveness. However, this also means individual ring replacements aren\u2019t possible. When the rings wear out, you\u2019ll need to replace the entire crank spider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Upgraded Derailleurs<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The front derailleur has received a major overhaul, with a new single cage size that works with all cassette ranges from 10-28T to 10-36T. Shifting is now faster, cleaner, and reportedly smoother than even Red. The rear derailleur keeps SRAM\u2019s Orbit fluid damper for chain stability\u2014especially helpful on gravel or rough roads. Furthermore, the all of the new sram range (Force, Red and Rival) have srams universal derailleur hanger (UDH) meaning the need for a mech hanger is no more, (if your bike supports UDH)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Braking and Serviceability<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hydraulic disc braking remains superb, but SRAM has improved bleeding and servicing with \u201cBleeding Edge\u201d ports, making maintenance more straightforward for home mechanics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Power Meter Integration<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SRAM continues offering integrated Quarq power meter options for both 1\u00d7 and 2\u00d7 cranksets, including Wide variants. The spindle-based unit is discreet, accurate, and keeps things tidy for those who want performance data without bulk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ride Impressions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Shifting Performance<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shifting is sharp, precise, and intuitive. While rear shifts were already solid in the previous generation, the front derailleur now delivers cleaner transitions\u2014some testers claim it’s more confident than Red AXS, which is a bold but believable claim given the redesign. Compared to Shimano\u2019s Ultegra Di2, Force AXS is now neck-and-neck in front shifting quality, though Di2 still has a hair’s advantage in absolute shift speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Braking<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The braking feel is powerful and consistent. Lever travel is short and smooth, and modulation is easy to control on both road and gravel descents. The ergonomics of the new hoods make braking from the tops or drops more natural than ever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ergonomics & Comfort<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The redesigned hoods are a game-changer for comfort. Riders with smaller hands will appreciate the compact form, while gravel and endurance riders benefit from better wrist angles during long hours in the saddle. The Bonus Button adds convenience for bar-top shifting or accessories via the AXS ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pros and  Cons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Pros<\/p>\n\n\n\n