Shimano's Dominance Challenged After a Year of SRAM Red AXS Use
After a year since its launch, the SRAM Red AXS groupset stands as a formidable competitor to Shimano's Dura-Ace Di2, offering wireless operation, improved shifting and braking, and revised ergonomics that make it particularly appealing for riders seeking a clean setup and modern features.
**Shifting Performance**
SRAM’s latest Red AXS iteration brings notable improvements, especially in front shifting speed and accuracy, thanks to a new front derailleur design and a narrower cage. Automated-trim functions have also been introduced to virtually eliminate chain rub across the gear range. Shifts are fast, smooth, and wireless, with a strong track record for reliability ([3][4]). Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, on the other hand, continues to set a high standard for shifting speed, smoothness, and reliability, with a robust wired system that many professionals and enthusiasts trust ([4]).
**Braking**
The new Red AXS features two-piece caliper designs that reduce material and improve aerodynamics. The braking system adopts a push-piston design at the lever (also used in Force and Rival), which delivers increased power and a smoother feel, especially for riders with smaller hands ([1][5]). Shimano’s hydraulic disc brakes are widely regarded as some of the best in the industry, offering strong stopping power, progressive modulation, and long-term reliability ([4]).
**Ergonomics**
The latest lever shape of the SRAM Red AXS is slimmer and lower-profile, providing improved comfort and better braking from the hoods. The ergonomics are particularly praised by riders with smaller hands, thanks to the redesigned hoods and repositioned piston ([5]). Shimano maintains excellent ergonomics with well-shaped hoods and comfortable lever reach adjustability, though some riders note that SRAM’s latest redesign has narrowed the comfort gap ([4][5]).
**Build Quality**
The groupset is constructed with high-quality materials, including forged carbon for derailleur cages and new lightweight chain designs with hard-chrome plating. The overall build is robust, and the groupset is widely considered durable under demanding conditions ([3][5]). Shimano is known for its meticulous manufacturing and long-term durability. The groupset is engineered to the highest standards, with a reputation for reliability and longevity ([4]).
**Features**
Wireless shifting is a major highlight, offering easy installation and a cleaner cockpit. The updated firmware and software allow for fine-tuning and customization. SRAM also integrates power meter options and offers a wide range of compatibility with 1x and 2x drivetrains ([3][5]). While wired, Shimano’s system is highly refined, offering advanced customization through its E-Tube software. Shimano also offers robust power meter integration and is compatible with a broad range of drivetrain configurations ([4]).
**Value**
At the top end, SRAM Red AXS components are often more expensive than equivalent Shimano parts. For instance, a SRAM Red 2x chainring set is about £300, while Dura-Ace’s large ring is £192.99 and inner is £40 ([1]). However, the wireless technology and recent ergonomic improvements may justify a premium for some riders. Shimano’s components are generally less expensive at the top end for replacement parts and offer exceptional value given their proven reliability and performance ([1]).
**Summary Table**
| Feature | SRAM Red AXS | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 | |--------------------|------------------------------|------------------------------| | Shifting | Fast, smooth, wireless | Precise, consistent, wired | | Braking | Powerful, smooth, push-piston| Strong, progressive, proven | | Ergonomics | Slimmer, lower-profile hoods | Comfortable, adjustable | | Build Quality | Robust, carbon components | Meticulous, highly durable | | Features | Wireless, customizable | Customizable, reliable | | Value | Premium pricing | Competitive pricing |
**Conclusion**
The SRAM Red AXS groupset, with its wireless operation, improved shifting and braking, and revised ergonomics, is a compelling alternative to Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, especially for riders prioritizing a clean setup and modern features. Shimano, however, maintains a slight edge in value for money and reputational reliability, with its wired system offering rock-solid performance and long-term durability ([1][3][4]).
It is worth noting that the integrated power meter chainrings on the SRAM RED AXS groupset require replacement of the entire power meter unit, which adds unnecessary cost and is not environmentally friendly. Additionally, the SRAM Red AXS groupset still lags slightly in terms of front shifting speed compared to Shimano Dura-Ace Di2.
For many consumers, the cost difference between a SRAM Red AXS and a Shimano Dura-Ace groupset may be enough to choose the latter. However, SRAM has made significant strides in build quality with this generation of Red AXS, bringing it closer to Shimano in terms of durability and refinement.
The SRAM RED AXS groupset is more suitable for endurance and adventure riding rather than pure racing. When comparing range-topping bikes, a SRAM Red AXS model bike generally costs at least a $500/£500 more than a Shimano Dura-Ace equivalent.
Lastly, the SRAM AXS app has seen continuous improvements, making it arguably the most intuitive drivetrain app of the big three. It is also possible to swap batteries between derailleurs in case of emergency with the SRAM RED AXS groupset. The SRAM Red XPLR variant, while not the focus of this review, is the best electronic option for dedicated gravel setups.
E-bikes, with their modern features, can benefit from the wireless operation of the SRAM Red AXS groupset, as it offers fast, smooth, and reliable shifts, making it an appealing choice for technology enthusiasts who enjoy sports. Meanwhile, gadget lovers might appreciate Shimano Dura-Ace Di2's advanced customization through its E-Tube software, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the industry, especially for sports bike riders prioritizing value for money and reputational reliability.
