SRAM Apex 1 for Touring/Bikepacking
09-05-20, 07:36 PM
#26
Senior Member
I have a couple year old Trek Checkpoint that I bought as a frame and installed SRAM Apex 1 gearing. It’s a 40 tooth in front and 11-42 cassette. It was my first frame up build and I was so excited to get that group set at reasonable price I didn’t realize the issue I’d have with climbing with that gearing. The gearing is way to high. I struggle to climb an 8% grade unloaded. That gearing will be a problem for the road trip I’m planning where I want to base camp and maybe do bikepacking or touring overnighters.
I’ve been reading and researching this and the idea so far is to buy a 38 tooth for the front (the smallest available), an 11-50 cassette and the Garbaruk replacement derailleur cage to handle the gearing range.
Has anyone else here addressed this issue or have thoughts or ideas?
Thanks.
I’ve been reading and researching this and the idea so far is to buy a 38 tooth for the front (the smallest available), an 11-50 cassette and the Garbaruk replacement derailleur cage to handle the gearing range.
Has anyone else here addressed this issue or have thoughts or ideas?
Thanks.
Last edited by Ridefreemc; 09-05-20 at 07:40 PM.
09-10-20, 02:47 AM
#27
Junior Member
Join Date: Jan 2017
Posts: 17
Bikes: '97 Marin Eldridge Grade, '21 Kona Dr. Dew
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With the release of the new (more affordable!) Deore 1x12 I finally made the change from my old 26" 3x8 bike to a new 27.5" 1x12 and I've been really happy so far!
I don't see use of 2x/3x systems for myself anymore as my new system matches range and steps of the old. I am not a speedy rider though so I can see a case for more speed focused riders for close ratio cassettes allowed by 2x/3x.
Here's is a comparison between my new (top chart) and old (bottom chart) gearing as gear inches and their steps: link
I don't see use of 2x/3x systems for myself anymore as my new system matches range and steps of the old. I am not a speedy rider though so I can see a case for more speed focused riders for close ratio cassettes allowed by 2x/3x.
Here's is a comparison between my new (top chart) and old (bottom chart) gearing as gear inches and their steps: link
