SRAM’s new wireless S-1000 Eagle Transmission is the newest addition to the chainless components launched in 2023 – but you can’t buy them as a cheaper Transmission upgrade for your bike.
While the goal of the S-1000 is to reduce the cost of the Transmission family’s components, this newest set of mountain bikes will, at least for the time being, only be available as Original Equipment (OE).
This means it will fit on some complete bikes, but you won’t be able to go out to your local shop and buy any specific S-1000 components or a complete set to fit your bike current.
This is also the first time that SRAM is offering roughly equivalent NX-level components with AXS wireless technology, previously reserved for the GX level or higher. SRAM’s training levels cover (from most to least expensive) XX1, XX01, GX, NX and SX, and transmission levels now cover XX SL, XX, X0 and S-1000.
Trickledown technology of this nature is great for the consumer. Hopefully, this means we’ll see brands specifying electronic shifting on more affordable bikes.
SRAM S-1000 Eagle Transmission Derailleur
For those who have seen GX Transmission, the look of the S-1000 derailleur will be familiar, mainly thanks to the horizontally mounted battery.
It also shares the same direct-mount design – which eschews the demountable hinge in favor of mounting it directly to the outside of the frame – and adjustment-free installation as all other Transmission components.
Also identical is software-based ‘cassette mapping’, where the conveyor waits for a cassette ramp before changing gears.
Its difference from the GX is the S-1000 motor’s “unique black anodized finish” and clutch system that now uses a “traction spring shortener.”
However, the S-1000 drivetrain can still be fitted with a clutch or cage from any other drivetrain level, be it XX SL, XX, X0 or GX, according to SRAM.
Rebuildable parts of higher specification dismantlers are also carried.
Both the outer skid plates and the two-piece outer link can be replaced using common tools, and like other disassemblers, the cage is removed by twisting it.
The bar output is compatible with all of SRAM’s AXS controllers and the AXS smartphone app.
SRAM S-1000 Eagle Transmission crankset
Constructed from forged aluminum, the S-1000 mounts are claimed to be durable and reliable.
They are available in lengths from 155mm to 175mm in 5mm increments and work with any Transmission eight-bolt chainring.
This means they are 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 the standard fitment is determined by the bike manufacturer.
An eMTB-specific crankset is also available and is compatible with SRAM, Brose, Bosch and ISIS bottom bracket bike motors.
SRAM XS-1270 Eagle Transmission Cassette
The new S-1000 Eagle Transmission cassette has the same 10-52t range as all of SRAM’s XD Driver Eagle cassettes.
The same X-Sync design as the rest of SRAM’s Transmission cassettes is also said to offer improved shifting performance under load.
Again, it is compatible with all other Transmission components, including derailleurs and chains.
The cassette, which uses the standard Shimano HyperGlide (HG) freewheel, has room for the 10t wheel by integrating it with the lock in one piece.
SRAM said it is working on aftermarket availability for the full cassette.
Currently, only 10-18t wheels will be available to purchase as a spare. The 10, 12, 14 and 16t gears are a welded set, while the 18t is a separate cog.
There are no chains for the S-1000
Chains are apparently missing from the S-1000 lineup.
Only SRAM’s flat MTB chainrings are compatible with Transmission-style drivetrains, but there is no specific model for the S-1000, so bike brands will need to specify GX or higher chainrings on their equipped bikes. with the S-1000.
DB8 brakes get Stealth refresh
Also launching are the updated DB8 brakes, which prior to the new Maven brakes were SRAM’s first foray into mineral oil calipers.
While the DB8 caliper, brake pads, bleed kit and rotor compatibility remain unchanged, the Stealth update brings its reservoir and cable closer to the bar, similar to the rest of SRAM’s Stealth brakes.
Retailing for £132 / $137 / €148 at the bottom, according to SRAM, they’re a relatively affordable means of accessing Code-like power.