In February, it was discovered that SRAM was moving to protect their X-Sync narrow wide patents. Court cases against three companies could be found online with one of those focusing on Praxis Works. While we’re not sure of the outcome of the case, one thing is clear – Praxis Works is no longer going to be offering narrow wide chainrings. Instead, they have partnered with MRP to help further the later brand’s Wave Tooth technology.
Instead of the typical narrow-wide tooth pattern, the Wave rings use the same shaped teeth that alternately push against the inner plates of the chain to obtain the same retention. MRP’s claim is that the design results in increased mud and debris removal since there is more room inside each plate. Praxis Works will be offering them in both Direct Mount and 104 BCD in addition to the rings MRP is currently offering…
Stamped and machined from 4.5mm thick 7075-T6 aluminum and hard anodized, the chainrings use either a standard 104 BCD bolt pattern or the SRAM 3 bolt style direct mount. 104 rings will be offered in 30, 32, 34, 36, and 38t with the 30t using threaded bolt holes which need a special 7.5mm M8 bolt. Direct mount rings will be available in 26-36t sizes, and in either 49 or 52mm chainlines. Both styles are meant for 10/11 speed Shimano/KMC/SRAM or 11 speed Shimano XX1 chains. Like MRP, Praxis Works recommends still using an upper guide for added security and requires the use of a clutch style rear derailleur.
Depending on the ring, pricing ranges from $50-75, and many of the sizes are in stock now.
