It is quite astonishing that component giant Sram only added a compatible Grip Shift shifter three years after the introduction of the first ten-speed groupset (Sram XX). According to Sram, however, the demand for Grip Shift was extremely low and therefore there was no time pressure for a hasty development. Even if fans of the light and uncomplicated twist shifters see things a little differently, they can now be particularly pleased with the result of the long dry spell.
New Sram Grip Shift in two versions
The new ten-speed Grip Shift will be available in a XX and X0 version give. The twist grips were completely redesigned so as not to simply add an extra gear. The focal points were Higher precision and Longevity with a still very low weight. The latter was achieved with a saving of 20 - 40 grams compared to the corresponding trigger lever. The complete set with shifter, grip and cable without outer casing should weigh 287 grams (Shifter 207 grammes, screw handle 80 grams).
For greater precision and durability, the gears have been rasterised using a Metal indexing is used instead of plastic. Each handle is also Triple ball bearing. Another new feature is the combination with its own 100 millimetre long Screw handlewhich can be clicked directly onto the rotary switches. However, Grip Shift can still be combined with other handlebar grips. Instead of an indexing for the front derailleur shifter, there is a double and triple Version.
The XX-Grip Shift comes with Gore Ride-On cables and is supplied as a set with grips 270 Euro cost. The X0-Grip Shift in black or silver costs 206 Euro. Both should available from April 2012 be. Find out what the new gearstick feels like in BIKE 5/12 from 3 April at the kiosk.
