Related
• SRAM Launches New Red AXS 2024
• What is New and What Is Not In SRAM Red AXS 2024
If you’re one of the many riders aboard a bike with Red eTap AXS (AKA Red 2019 or Red D1), you might ask, “Should I upgrade to Red AXS 2024?”
I’ve thought about this for a long time. My answer is, “Mostly no but a little bit yes.”
I say a little bit yes because the best part of the new Red AXS (AKA Red 2024 or Red E1) is found in the front derailleur. And that FD is backward compatible with Red 2019 (and SRAM’s Rival and Force 2x12 groups). So simply adding the new Red front derailleur to your existing group will provide a noticeable upgrade in shifting performance.
And because SRAM’s groups are wireless, swapping the front derailleur is easy. Just pop the chain’s quick link, remove the old FD, install the shiny new one, and pair it into the drivetrain. You can even swap over your existing battery.
Regarding the rest of the Red AXS 2024, the new shift/brake levers are worth considering. The hoods feel more comfortable and natural in the hand. Plus, the ergonomics of the shift paddles and brake levers are improved. The sensations from the lighter action of the brake levers are a step forward, and the bonus buttons can be handy.
And because of new Red’s backward compatibility, you can stick with your existing brake calipers and rotors (and your cassette, crank, chain, and derailleurs). These controls also work with existing 12-speed Force, Rival, and Apex AXS groups.
When I asked SRAM representatives about pairing the new front derailleur with the previous generation Red (or the other 12-speed SRAM road groups), the brand confirmed that it does work. But, as you might expect, SRAM encourages riders to use all the new Red parts together “For best performance.”
If you have the means to buy the whole new Red 2024 group, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed: It is superb. The new parts are in shops already and SRAM has a special debut bundle (shift/brake levers, derailleurs, batteries and batteries, chain, rotors) with the new Hammerhead Karoo cycling computer for $3,000 (crankset not included).
If you were already in the market for a new bike, over 30 brands offer (or will soon) complete bikes with new Red parts already installed. So there are plenty of bikes with the group to pick from. And if you love a deal, you can scoop up a heavily discounted bike with previous-generation Red AXS from several brands and retailers.
A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling, Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race.
