SRAM eTap
Exquisitely timed for the launch of another electronic group, last night at Tuesday Worlds, an SBCU racer says, “forgot to charge my bike,” and was stuck in the 39 for 12 laps. I’ve had my angry moments with di2, failed for Mark V once, and while understanding why cyclists are into it, I prefer mech shifting and not being isolated from the drivetrain by servo motors. That’s not to say I and Hugga aren’t into the new and welcome the opp to ride eTap, we just try to decompress as much as possible on rides and limit the amount of devices with batteries. Don’t like to spend a lot of time stuck in the 39 either or fighting with skipping chains.
So with that electro shifting intro, let’s get on with it…here are the photos and all-caps from SRAM’s PR at Eurobike this week. As soon as we ride it, I expect at Interbike, reports and posts to follow. MSRP is $2,758 for the groupset.
AIREA™ (Area)
Utilizing 128-bit encryption, eTap shift signals are transmitted and received in accordance with SRAM’s proprietary wireless protocol known as AIREA. Each time an eTap groupset is paired, a new encryption code is generated and assigned to the components in this group to ensure complete shifting security.
eTAP®
All of the underlying tech in our new SRAM RED eTap groupset such as wireless shifting, advanced battery power management and mechatronic technologies are all meant to serve one ultimate purpose, to facilitate the most intuitive and consistent shifting available. This shift logic is called eTap. Right lever makes it harder, left lever makes it easier, both levers shift the front derailleur. Simple, unmistakable, and intuitive.
BLIPS™
Drop bars exist to give riders multiple hand positions. SRAM RED eTap Blips turn each of those positions into a location that can be shifted from. With two Blip ports available on each drop bar shifter, multiple positions can be connected without any additional hardware. Easily placed underneath bar tape with no need to cut the tape to expose the switch, Blips maintain the beautiful lines of your cherished ride. Blips are available in lengths of 150mm: 6g, 230mm: 7g, 450mm: 8g, 650mm: 9g
COMPATIBILITY
SRAM RED eTap brake levers and derailleurs are compatible will all SRAM 22 cranksets, chainrings, chains, mechanical brakes, and cassettes with a max cog size of 28-teeth.
POWER MANAGEMENT
SRAM engineered intelligent, energy efficient wireless components. In addition to providing easy to understand LED power indication, sensors within each wireless component power up the component automatically when your ride starts, and enter sleep mode automatically at the end of your ride to extend available riding time between charges. Every component features LED power indication.
YAW™
SRAM’s proprietary Yaw front derailleur cage rotates to maintain a consistent angular relationship with the chain for ideal shifting performance in every gear combination.
EASE OF CHARGING
eTap batteries are literally a snap to remove and charge. Just flip the tool-free battery latch up and slide the battery up and out of the derailleur. Then snap the battery into the USB powered charger and connect the charger to any USB power source or A/C USB adaptor. A full charge takes only 45 minutes to complete.
DEVICES
Whether you are a Mac or PC user, SRAM RED eTap can communicate with your computer. Firmware updates are handled quickly and wirelessly using the USB stick included with complete aftermarket groupsets. We worked with Garmin throughout the development process to develop communication capability between eTap and Garmin GPS devices. Please contact Garmin for GPS model compatibility information.