Exploring the SRAM Apex Eagle Groupset

Exploring the SRAM Apex Eagle Groupset: A Game-Changer for Gravel and Adventure Cycling

If you’re a cyclist who loves the freedom of gravel roads, the thrill of bikepacking, or simply the versatility to tackle any terrain, you’ve likely heard of SRAM’s Apex Eagle groupset.

Launched in 2023, this innovative drivetrain has quickly gained attention for bringing wide-range gearing, reliability, and affordability to the world of drop-bar cycling. But what exactly is the SRAM Apex Eagle groupset, and why is it such a big deal? Let’s break it down.

What is the SRAM Apex Eagle Groupset?

The SRAM Apex Eagle is a 1x12-speed groupset designed primarily for gravel and adventure riding, though its versatility extends to casual road rides and even hybrid setups.

It’s part of SRAM’s Apex lineup, which sits at the entry-level tier of their road and gravel offerings. 

What sets the Apex Eagle apart is its integration of mountain bike-inspired components—specifically from SRAM’s renowned Eagle ecosystem—into a drop-bar compatible system. 

This “mullet” configuration pairs a wide-range Eagle cassette and derailleur with drop-bar shifters, offering an impressive gear range for climbing steep hills and cruising flats alike.

Available in both mechanical and wireless electronic (AXS) versions, the Apex Eagle blends simplicity, performance, and durability into a package that appeals to both new riders and seasoned adventurers. It’s built to handle the unpredictable conditions of gravel riding while keeping things intuitive and budget-friendly.

Key Features of the SRAM Apex Eagle Groupset

1. 1x12-Speed Drivetrain
   The Apex Eagle ditches the front derailleur in favor of a single chainring setup (1x), paired with a 12-speed cassette. This simplifies shifting, reduces maintenance, and eliminates the complexity of a 2x system—perfect for gravel riding where mud and grit can wreak havoc on finicky components.

2. The 12-speed setup ensures you still have plenty of gears to work with.

3. Massive Gear Range
   Borrowing from SRAM’s Eagle mountain bike line, the Apex Eagle offers cassette options like 11-50T or 10-52T, delivering up to a 520% gear range. That’s a huge spread, making it easy to power up steep inclines with a low bailout gear or spin comfortably on flat pavement.

4. Chainring sizes typically range from 38T to 42T (with 44T and 46T available aftermarket), giving riders flexibility to tweak their setup.

5. Mechanical and AXS Options

   • Mechanical: The mechanical version uses SRAM’s classic DoubleTap shifting system, where a single paddle behind the brake lever handles both upshifts and downshifts. It’s reliable, serviceable on the road, and doesn’t rely on batteries—ideal for remote adventures.

   • AXS: The wireless electronic version brings SRAM’s AXS technology to the Apex level, offering crisp, customizable shifting via battery-powered components. It’s a step up in convenience and modernity, though it comes at a slightly higher cost.

6. Hydraulic Disc Brakes
   Both versions come equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, featuring a new two-piece caliper design for smoother operation and better pad alignment. The brake levers are ergonomically shaped with a wide, flattened surface, providing excellent control whether you’re braking from the hoods or the drops.

7. Mountain Bike Compatibility
   The Apex Eagle’s rear derailleur is based on SRAM’s GX Eagle mountain bike design, complete with a Roller Bearing Clutch for chain stability and Cage Lock for easy wheel removal. The mechanical shifter even uses the same “X-Actuation” pull ratio as SRAM’s Eagle mountain bike derailleurs, meaning you can mix and match components across the Eagle ecosystem (like GX, X01, or XX1 derailleurs) for a custom build.

How Does It Perform?

The SRAM Apex Eagle shines in its ability to handle diverse terrain. The wide gear range ensures you’re never left spinning out or grinding to a halt, whether you’re tackling a gravel climb or cruising a paved road.

The mechanical version offers smooth, precise shifting with SRAM’s intuitive DoubleTap logic—push the paddle to the first click for a downshift, or through to the second click for an upshift. It’s straightforward once you get the hang of it.

The hydraulic brakes are a standout, delivering powerful, modulated stopping power that rivals higher-end groupsets.

The clutch-equipped derailleur keeps the chain quiet and secure, even on rough, bumpy surfaces. While the mechanical setup is slightly heavier than its AXS counterpart (3,072g vs. 3,267g for Eagle), it’s still lighter than many competing gravel groupsets, and the lack of batteries makes it a favorite for long-haul bikepackers.

Apex Eagle vs. Apex XPLR: What’s the Difference?

SRAM’s Apex lineup includes two distinct flavors: Apex Eagle and Apex XPLR. While both are 1x12-speed gravel groupsets, they cater to slightly different needs:

• Apex Eagle: Focuses on maximum gear range (up to 10-52T) with Eagle mountain bike components. It’s ideal for rugged adventures and steep climbs where you need the lowest possible gear.

• Apex XPLR: Offers a slightly narrower range (e.g., 10-44T or 11-44T) tailored for gravel and mixed-terrain riding. It uses a Flattop chain and a derailleur optimized for closer gear steps, appealing to riders who prioritize efficiency on flatter or rolling terrain.

Both are available in mechanical and AXS versions, but the Eagle is the go-to for those seeking mountain bike-level gearing in a drop-bar package.

Who Is It For?

The SRAM Apex Eagle groupset is perfect for:

• Gravel Enthusiasts: Its wide range and durability make it a dream for off-road exploration.

• Bikepackers: The mechanical version’s simplicity and field-serviceability, paired with massive gearing, suit long, remote journeys.

• Budget-Conscious Riders: It delivers high-end features at an accessible price, making it a great entry point into 12-speed gravel riding.

• Mountain Bikers Going Drop-Bar: If you’re used to Eagle gearing and want a gravel bike that feels familiar, this is your match.

Final Thoughts

The SRAM Apex Eagle groupset is a testament to SRAM’s commitment to versatility and innovation. By blending the best of their road and mountain bike technologies, they’ve created a drivetrain that’s as fun as it is functional.

Whether you opt for the mechanical version for its analog charm or the AXS for its cutting-edge precision, the Apex Eagle offers a reliable, wide-ranging solution for riders who refuse to be boxed in by terrain or tradition.

So, if you’re looking to upgrade your gravel rig or build a new adventure bike from scratch, the SRAM Apex Eagle deserves a spot on your shortlist.