This new, lower priced, yet dedicated downhill transmission opens up more options when it comes to deciding how and where to spend your money when equipping your bike or custom build.
The new GX DH kit is not only cheaper than XO DH (by a fair chunk…) but it is compatible with it too. Throw this in with the GX DH seven speed cassette fitting a standard splined freehub body and you can keep your tried and tested wheels rolling – no need to change or upgrade them.
‘Real ‘trickle down’ technology, that’s both proven as well as innovative and is now reaching a wider audience’
So what’s in the line up with this transmission? A downhill-optimized 7-speed 11-25T cassette (£26) provides gear steps that give each shift more purpose with its compact design allows more spoke clearance. Match this with a short cage rear mech (£88), SRAM’s super fast GX DH trigger shifter (£35) and the PC-1130 chain and you have a very purposeful yet affordable set-up.
If you’re charging hard then kit that is affordable to replace, without any headaches is an added bonus. On a dedicated DH bike you’ll not be wearing the transmission out through high mileage but more than likely damaging it through knocks from the trail or the uplift van. Throw in a day on the hill in filthy weather and the water and grit grinding paste will have you heading for the workshop sooner rather than later.
GX DH is a no-brainer for any rider dedicated to gravity riding but with an eye on price. With its main objectives being durability and dependability, GX DH makes heck of a lot of sense. Real ‘trickle down’ technology, that’s both proven as well as innovative and is now reaching a wider audience. A good move from SRAM and as with the GX trail drivetrain it’s one we very much approve of.
PRICE: Shifter/Cassette/Mech – £149
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