After Shimano, Sram is now following suit and presenting a new rear derailleur technology for the XO and X9 groupsets. Type 2 describes a rear derailleur with an integrated friction damper. This means that there is significantly more tension on the rear derailleur cage, which effectively prevents the chain from slamming. In contrast to Shimano, the friction damper is permanently active and cannot be switched off.
However, the Americans have integrated a very useful feature with Cage Lock. The rear derailleur cage can be locked in the forward-folded position using a small button. This means that there is no longer any tension on the chain, which makes bike installation and removal much easier.
Compared to a conventional rear derailleur, the Type 2 version weighs around 30 grams more. However, a chain guide is no longer necessary. On the first test rides in Finale Ligure, the chain remained securely on the chainring even on rough trails. And without a guide. The difference to a conventional rear derailleur without a friction damper only rattles loudly into your memory when you are travelling without the Type 2.
Type 2 rear derailleurs will be available in three cage lengths from August 2012.
Video: Elmar Keineke from Sram explains the new Type 2 rear derailleur:
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