Gravel Grinder News: SRAM Max 36 Derailleur and AUX Bottle Cage

Gravel Grinder News: SRAM Max 36 Derailleur and AUX Bottle Cage – by Guitar Ted

Today in “Gravel Grinder News” we have a new rear derailleur and cassette from SRAM plus news of a versatile water bottle cage system from Granite Design.

SRAM Announces a New Red AXS MAX 36 Rear Derailleur: Those wishing for a lower gear with SRAM AXS 12 speed road components have now got a rear derailleur and cassette with a 36T low gear which can be matched with the appropriate RED or FORCE level AXS components to get 1X or 2X gearing for your road or gravel bike.

Here are the salient points from SRAM’s press release:

• X-Range gearing technology gives you more range and a smoother gear progression, so you’re always in the right gear
• Use with XG-1270 10-36T cassette for maximum range
• Compatible with cassettes from 10-28T to 10-36T, for 1x and 2x
• SRAM AXS enabled for easy personalization.
• Orbit chain management technology keeps drivetrain quiet and secure.
• Large X-SYNC pulleys and ceramic bearings for increased durability and efficiency.
• Compatible with existing eTap batteries.
• MSRP $710.00USD

Also announced was a new cassette range with a new finish. Starting now, in February 2021, the new SRAM Force XG-1270 cassettes will come with a nickel-chrome finish. Available ranges will be 10-28, 10-33, and 10-36. All will be priced at $185.00USD

SRAM cautions that those who wish to mix and match 12 speed components should consult with SRAM technical specifications to make sure the combinations you are looking for will function as designed.

Granite Design Announces The AUX Water Bottle Cage and Mounting System: There are times when you may want to add some water carrying capacity to your bike, or you may have a bike with limited access to bottle mounts. Some bikes are pretty cramped for space as well. So, Granite Design decided to tackle this issue and have a solution with the new AUX cage and strap system.

The AUX is a carbon composite material formed into a side loading cage. This can be attached in the traditional manner with two bolts, but it also can be attached with two silicone covered hook and loop straps and rubber blocks. The AUX can then be attached to any tube 27.2mm in diameter or larger. So, seat posts, top tubes, or wherever you need to put a water bottle on a gravel bike. Granite Design claims a ‘rock solid fit” with no slipping issues.

The AUX Cage and strap system is available now for $27.99 or as a stand-alone cage at $20.99 and can be purchased direct at https://www.granite-design.com/aux

NOTE: Images and information for this post were provided by Granite Design and SRAM.