SRAM’s new S-1000 Eagle Transmission-spec electronic, wireless drivetrain is the latest addition to the company’s hanger-free components launching for 2023. However, you won’t be able to buy them as a cheaper Transmission upgrade for your bike.
While the aim of the S-1000 is to reduce the cost of Transmission family components, this latest mountain bike groupset will only be available as original equipment (OE) for the time being.
This means that it can be installed on some complete bikes, but you can’t just go to a local bike shop and buy specific S-1000 parts or a complete groupset that can be installed on your current bike.
This also marks the first time that SRAM has offered the approximate equivalent of NX-level components with wireless AXS technology, which was previously reserved for the GX tier or higher. SRAM’s Drivetrain tiers include (from most to least expensive) XX1, XX01, GX, NX, and SX, while Transmission tiers now include XX SL, XX, X0, and S-1000.
Trickledown technology of this nature is great for the consumer. Hopefully it means we see brands speccing electronic shifting on more affordable bikes.
SRAM S-1000 Eagle Transmission Derailleur
For those familiar with GX Transmission, the S-1000 derailleur will be recognizable, especially thanks to the horizontally mounted battery.
It also features the same direct-mount design, where the derailleur hanger mounts directly to the frame’s dropout, and an adjustment-free installation, like all other Transmission components.
The software ‘cassette mapping’ is also identical, with the derailleur waiting for a cassette gradient before shifting.
What sets it apart from the GX is the S-1000 derailleur’s “unique black anodized finish” and a clutch system that now uses a “drag spring damper.”
However, according to SRAM, the S-1000 derailleur can still be equipped with a clutch or cage from any other transmission level, whether that’s XX SL, XX, X0, or GX.
The higher specification derailleur reconditionable parts have also been carried over.
Both the outer skid plates and the two-piece outer link can be changed with standard tools. As with the other derailleurs, the cage is removed by rotating it.
The derailleur is compatible with all SRAM AXS controllers and the AXS smartphone app.
SRAM S-1000 Eagle Transmission Cranks
The S-1000 cranks are made of forged aluminum and are known for being robust and reliable.
They are available in lengths from 155mm through 175mm, in 5mm increments, and will fit any Transmission 8-bolt chainring.
That means they’re compatible with the same composite bash guards found on GX and X0-level rings. Bash guards can be retrofitted to the S-1000 crankset, but standard fitment is determined by the bike manufacturer.
A crankset specifically for eMTBs is also available, which is compatible with SRAM, Brose, Bosch and ISIS e-bike bottom bracket motors.
SRAM XS-1270 Eagle Gear Cassette
The new S-1000 Eagle Transmission cassette features the same 10-52t range as all of SRAM’s XD Driver Eagle cassettes.
The same X-Sync design as SRAM’s other Transmission cassettes is also said to provide better shifting performance under load.
It is also compatible with all other transmission components, including derailleurs and chains.
The cassette, which uses the Shimano HyperGlide (HG) freehub body standard, accommodates the 10t cog by being integrated into the lockring in one piece.
SRAM says it is working on making the complete cassette available on the aftermarket.
Currently only the 10-18t sprockets are available to purchase as replacement parts. The 10, 12, 14 and 16t sprockets are a welded cluster, while the 18t is a separate sprocket.
No chains for S-1000
Chains are apparently missing from the S-1000 series.
Only SRAM’s flattop MTB chains are compatible with Transmission drivetrains, but there is no S-1000-specific model, so bike brands must spec GX or higher chains on their S-1000-equipped bikes.
DB8 brakes get Stealth refresh
Also launched were the updated DB8 brakes. Before the new Maven brakes, these were SRAM’s first steps into mineral oil brakes.
The DB8 caliper, pads, bleed kit, and rotor compatibility remain unchanged, but the Stealth update moves the reservoir and cables closer to the handlebars, similar to the rest of SRAM’s Stealth brakes.
According to SRAM, they cost £132 / $137 / €148 each and are a relatively affordable way to access Code-like power.