What level is the SRAM-SX groupset?
2 Answers
SRAM-SX groupset belongs to the entry-level category. Here are the relevant details: 1. SX is SRAM's 12-speed entry-level groupset from 2019 (SRAM does not distinguish between 'professional' and 'recreational' levels, and the technical simplification at each lower level is not as obvious as Shimano's). The cassette is 12-speed, 11-50T, and the crankset is single-chainring, making it a 12-speed setup with a total of 12 gear ratios covering from high speed to ultra-low-speed climbing. It is designed for various off-road riding conditions. 2. Both SX and NX use Shimano's 11-speed freehub body, with the drawback being that the cassette is quite heavy. GX, on the other hand, uses an XD freehub body. Shimano's M7100, M8100, and M9100 series use an MS freehub body, and they are not compatible with each other.
When I first started mountain biking, I chose the SRAM SX groupset, which is completely an entry-level product with an affordable price—just a few hundred dollars for a full set. It was simple enough to install by myself without needing many professional tools. As SRAM's most basic 12-speed system, it's suitable for beginners like me or casual riders. The shifting is decently smooth, but you can clearly feel it's heavier than the NX level, especially during long climbs where it feels less responsive. Made of steel and aluminum, its wear resistance isn't strong enough—after about half a year of riding, the chain started rusting, and the rear derailleur lost some of its precision, so I had to clean and lubricate it weekly to extend its lifespan. Overall, it offers great value for money, saving you cash for a helmet or gloves, but if you're after high performance or have intensive riding needs, it won’t be enough.
