The rumour mills have been grinding for some time about SRAM releasing a similar rear mech stabilising system to Shimano’s Shadow+ system, but now they can stop grinding cos it’s official.
Words: Ed@Dirt
The new ‘Type 2’ rear mech uses a clutch system that on the face of it works just like the Shimano system in that the mech is free to move backwards but there’s a considerable amount of friction that stops the cage from moving forwards easily…which in turn puts an end to chain slap, and reduces the chances of you dropping a chain. There are some notable differences to the Shimano system though. Firstly, rather than using a simple metal band around a metal axle to provide the friction SRAM have developed a ‘roller bearing clutch’ which they seem to be touting as a more reliable and durable system. The needle bearings are self-lubricating, but the only thing that’s going to prove if it really is more reliable is time. Oh, and unlike Shimano SRAM have decided to not make the level of friction adjustable, instead it comes ‘factory calibrated’.
The other big difference is in the way that wheel removal is made possible. On a Shadow+ rear mech you get an on/off switch for the clutch, whereas SRAM have introduced a ‘Cage Lock’ system. All you do is pull the cage forwards, press a button, and then hey presto the cage stays locked in that position. This leaves your chain slack and it should mean that getting your rear wheel in and out is the easiest it has ever been (not that it’s ever been that hard). One area where this system will definitely help though is when you have to fit a new chain, as you won’t have to fight the mech spring.
So there you have it, the best thing to happen to rear mechs has now made it over to SRAM too. Whether it works as well as the Shimano system is something that we’ll have to wait and see, but we’d be surprised if there are any big differences to be noticed while riding. That said, the SRAM design does look neater. The Type 2 system will be available on both X0 and X9 rear mechs, with long, medium and short cages, and prices look like they will identical to the current standard mech prices. Expect to see them in shops around August time…
Introducing the all-new SRAM TYPE 2 rear derailleur.
High speed RD damper.
Easiest wheel removal.
Fits on the bike you have now.
RELENTLESS
SRAM TYPE 2 REAR DERAILLEUR
Introducing the SRAM TYPE 2™ rear derailleur.
Designed for X0 and X9 families, TYPE 2 rear derailleur delivers maximum drivetrain stability—even through the most punishing technical terrain. With Roller Bearing Clutch™ technology, SRAM TYPE 2 eliminates derailleur bounce and chain slap without sacrificing precision.
Roller Bearing Clutch™ Technology
- ¥ A one-way roller clutch controls chain tension for consistent shifting
- ¥ Needle bearing
- ¥ Self lubricating for consistently smooth action
- ¥ 360 degree clutch force for reliability and durability
- ¥ TYPE 2’s clutch force comes factory calibrated
by SRAM - ¥ Consistent shifting feel
- ¥ Maintenance free clutch design
Cage LockTM Technology
The first rear derailleur of its kind, SRAM TYPE 2 lets you push your cage forward and lock it into place with the push of a button. This creates slack, removing all tension from the chain. With Cage Lock, TYPE 2 makes wheel removal and installation—as well as chain installation—easier than any other derailleur on earth.
1. Just push the cage forward—creating slack—and lock it in place.
2. The chain stays perfectly loose, letting the derailleur swing out of the way. When you’re ready to ride again, simply unlock the cage and go.
SPECS
X0 TYPE 2 Rear Derailleur
- ¥ Exact Actuation for precise and dependable
10-speed performance - ¥ Focused chassis design for all conditions and usage
- ¥ 235g (medium cage) clutch adds 30 grams to a standard RD
- ¥ 36-tooth cassette capable
- ¥ 3 cage lengths available: short for DH, medium for 2X10
and long for 3X10 - ¥ 3 graphic colors available: Silver, Black, Red
X9 TYPE 2 Rear Derailleur
- ¥ Exact Actuation for precise and dependable 10-speed performance
- ¥ Focused chassis design for all conditions and usage
- ¥ 250g (medium cage) clutch adds 30 grams to a standard RD
- ¥ 36-tooth cassette capable
- ¥ 3 cage lengths available: short for DH, medium for 2X10
and long for 3X10 - ¥ 2 graphic colors available: Grey, white
July production
August retail availability
