Shift paddles instead of levers, a secure wireless connection instead of cables and the power is supplied by the battery and electric motor instead of your thumb. This applies to Sram's Eagle AXS drivetrain as well as the Reverb AXS dropper post, but let's start with the gear changes.

The first thing that goes through your mind is that the light pressure on the top shifter doesn't do what your brain wants. You can get used to this, or even better, you can configure the gearshift lever according to your own preferences using a smartphone app. However, due to time constraints, we decided not to do this. However, the personal configuration of the shifting unit is already familiar from Shimano and so it would have been rather a disappointment if Sram hadn't offered this.

Compared to the effort required to press a mechanical shift lever, shifting with the Eagle AXS is like stroking a caress. The perceived effort is zero. The shifting speed is noticeably higher than with the mechanical Eagle and also very precise. The changer guides the chain precisely to the next higher or lower sprocket.
Another shifting option is the sprint lever. This can be operated with the index finger in the bent-forward position during a sprint, even with the handlebars gripped. This shifting process does not work the first time, but probably does not require much practice for perfect implementation.

The electronic protection function of the changer is interesting. It cannot move freely towards the inside, as is the case with the mechanical derailleur. However, to ensure that the derailleur is not damaged in the event of an impact, it yields electronically and then returns to its original position.

The Reverb provides a wow experience

From radio-controlled dropper posts, we are used to a slight delay as well as other peculiarities, even if these are not drastic. But it does happen that we operate the Reverb AXS incorrectly: A quick press of the button and put weight on the saddle to lower the throne.

The highlight of the electronic Reverb, however, is that you can operate it just like a mechanically or hydraulically controlled seatpost. To lower it, you stay on the button until the support is down. The same applies to raising, or you can raise the support in stages without having to hold your bottom against it at the desired position. The control motor opens and closes the hydraulic valve almost in real time when the button is pressed.

Here, too, the switch or button is very comfortable on the thumb and requires hardly any force to operate.

Conclusion

Sram's Eagle AXS electronic drivetrain is not really a major sensation, because after all, Shimano has already made a strong showing with the Di2. In terms of shifting precision, the two drivetrains are practically on a par. On the other hand, Sram has been able to work better on the details, and this is noticeable in the operation. However, the fact that the shifting works wirelessly via a secure radio connection is the main argument in favor of the Eagle AXS.

Rock Shox's Reverb AXS dropper post is a blast on the short ride. It is probably the best on the market in terms of handling. Whether this and the new bleeder valve are worth the price of 800 euros is something everyone has to decide for themselves. But it's probably similar to buying a sports car - you don't really need it, but it's still cool.

www.sram.com