SRAM Red eTap comes with a slight learning curve, but quickly delivers on simple functionality. Shifting at the levers and ‘Blip’ satellite buttons is easy, with positive tactile and audio feedback — click! — and a near impossibility of accidental shifts, regardless of conditions or bulky gloves.
Four BikeRadar riders have tested the wireless group now, and our opinions generally align — Red eTap works very well.
For complete details behind the group, read our news story. For our opinions on the functionality, read on.
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- Highs: Simplicity in operation; cleanliness in setup (no wires or cables!); freedom in satellite shifter placement; no performance degradation from stretched or dirty cables; simplest system for newer riders; light, exchangeable batteries
- Lows: Initial learning curve; heavier, with slower rear derailleur movement than mechanical Red; choice of standard or compact crank, not one-size-fits all
Being third to market with an electronic drivetrain behind Shimano and Campagnolo came with challenges and benefits.
On the one hand, some 250 patents on electronic shifting already existed, fencing off many design styles. “When we printed them all out, we had 44 pounds (20kg) of paper,” said SRAM’s Michael Zellmann. “The stack was three feet (0.9m) tall.”
On the other hand, SRAM designers had the benefit of watching riders’ reactions to the functional peculiarities of Shimano’s Di2 and Campagnolo’s EPS electronic systems. For instance, one gripe against Di2 has been the muted tactile feedback. Another complaint has been the occasional difficulty in differentiating between the two smaller shift buttons, especially in the cold, over rough surfaces or with gloves on. Thus, Red eTap has more of a snap when shifting, plus a single, big paddle on each side.
Blips — stick ’em wherever
No skips – slower upshifting than mechanical Red, but smooth across the board
Battery flips
Existing pieces and weight comparisons
You can read more at BikeRadar.com
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