SRAM Apex 1 and SRAM Force 1 cranksets interchangeable?

8 replies · 2,639 views

tanglewoodtree
14 posts
#1Jun 3, 2019, 10:40 AM
I would really appreciate a sanity-check, as replacing/upgrading components is still new to me. I have a 2019 Salsa Warbird Apex 1. I want to replace the crankset with a Force (or Rival) crankset, so that I can run smaller chainrings (either via 110 BCD spider or direct mount). Found a good deal on a Force 22 crankset. Both are GXP, same arm length. Any reason or factor why I couldn't replace my Apex one with this Force one (obviously after swapping the two chainrings for one narrow-wide one), without having to touch the BB?

As an aside, what are the advantages of running with or without a spider?

Thanks so much!
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cfrogjump
1 posts
#2Jun 6, 2019, 12:20 PM
You are correct, they should be a direct swap if the existing crankset is GXP. If it isn't then you'll need some sort adapter or a BB86 PF GXP bottom bracket as well. A BB86 bottom bracket is usually either 24mm shimano spindle or 24/22mm GXP since the non-drive side of a GXP spindle is only 22mm. There are adapters to make that side 24mm but they aren't common.

If you decide to do it, message me before you buy the new crankset, I have a new in box force 1 1x GXP crankset that I don't need and could give you a good deal on.
1
tanglewoodtree
14 posts
#3Jun 6, 2019, 1:08 PM
Thanks for your reply. I was like 95% sure, but I totally appreciate the confirmation. And I actually didn't realize that there were adapters, though that doesn't sounds like the best solution unless absolutely necessary.
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ljsmith
762 posts
#4Jun 6, 2019, 3:28 PM
I've got the same bike and I have a Force crankset on it now. Just get the GXP version and you can use your existing BB. As far as running with a spider or not, it really doesn't matter. Any advantages or disadvantages are theoretical, you wouldn't really notice any difference. A spider is heavier, but may make certain size chainrings stiffer. Personally I am running an Eagle Direct mount chainring on my Force crank.
1
Toadmeister
53 posts
#5Jun 6, 2019, 7:53 PM
Similar question: I have an SRAM Apex, XSYNC 40T crankset on my Jamis Renegade Exploit. Would love to changout the chain ring from a 40t to a 36t for a little lower gearing on hills. ANY advice is welcome.

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Slim
300 posts
#6Jun 7, 2019, 7:55 AM
I have that Warbird Apex as well and put the higher end Sram gXP crank from my old Warbird in there. Left the BB in place.
as long as the spindle length(Road vs mtb vs fatbike) is the same, any GXP crank will fit in any GXP bottom bracket. (And Same for any other crank spindle standard)
1
tanglewoodtree
14 posts
#7Jun 7, 2019, 9:03 AM
Toadmeister wrote:Similar question: I have an SRAM Apex, XSYNC 40T crankset on my Jamis Renegade Exploit. Would love to changout the chain ring from a 40t to a 36t for a little lower gearing on hills. ANY advice is welcome.

The downside of the Apex 1 crankset, as I discovered, is that is has an odd asymmetrical 4 bolt chainring pattern, which makes finding replacements hard. Wolftooth offers matching chainrings, but only down to 40t. I'm looking for a 38t, with the ability to go even lower later, if touring/bikepacking. Based on the advice above and what I've learned, getting a different SRAM crankset with a more traditional 110 BCD 5 bolt pattern (or a removal spider) opens up tons of options. As long as the spindle interface matches your BB (GXP or BB30) and the type (road, as mentioned above), I've heard it should be an easy change. I'm considering a Force 1 (or 22, really), but I'm intrigued by the much cheaper S350-1 as well.
1
Toadmeister
53 posts
#8Jun 8, 2019, 8:36 AM
tanglewoodtree wrote:

The downside of the Apex 1 crankset, as I discovered, is that is has an odd asymmetrical 4 bolt chainring pattern, which makes finding replacements hard. Wolftooth offers matching chainrings, but only down to 40t. I'm looking for a 38t, with the ability to go even lower later, if touring/bikepacking. Based on the advice above and what I've learned, getting a different SRAM crankset with a more traditional 110 BCD 5 bolt pattern (or a removal spider) opens up tons of options. As long as the spindle interface matches your BB (GXP or BB30) and the type (road, as mentioned above), I've heard it should be an easy change. I'm considering a Force 1 (or 22, really), but I'm intrigued by the much cheaper S350-1 as well.

yeah, that asymmetric chainring mount made my eyes crossed, LOL.

I have The GXP, so their is a separate road and Mtn version?
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HollyBoni
333 posts
#9Jun 8, 2019, 3:07 PM
Toadmeister wrote:I have The GXP, so their is a separate road and Mtn version?

If you mean the BB itself then no, there is only one version (the most widely available is branded as Truvativ).
The MTB world moved to DUB, and the drop bar world is moving slowly there too.

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