Want to add SRAM Eagle’s massive 500% range to your 1x gravel or adventure bike? MicroSHIFT has you covered with their all-new 12-speed “Eagle” compatible thumb shifter and bar end shifter. The two models offer options for flat bars or drop bars respectively, marrying the latest tech with the simplicity of a friction shifter system.
Both parts can be switched between friction and index shifting, giving you the option for minute tuning of derailleur position, or just clicking it through the steps. Why add these? If you’re headed out into the wild, they’re simple and easy to adjust and repair. Or, at least easier than a SRAM drop bar lever. Cheaper, too…but pricing is TBD. Available later this year.
The new MicroSHIFT XLE rear derailleur adds new range to their growing collection of Shimano-compatible gravel and adventure bike components. Paired with the same drop bar shifters introduced earlier this year for their 1x XCD rear derailleur, the new XLE version adds compatibility for the extra chain length needed for 2×11 systems. It keeps the same upgraded clutch mechanism as the XCD, just with more range.
In fact, when you combine their 11-46 cassette with a 36/46 chainring combo, they say that’s a 566% range. The shifters and rear derailleur are Shimano Dyna-Sys compatible, too, so you can mix and match as you wish between the brands’ components.
While the new adult derailleurs get stronger clutches for better chain retention, they also have a new “kids” derailleur with reduced spring force. This reduces shifting effort by a claimed 10%, helping those little fingers shift gears quicker and easier so they can stay focused on where they’re going.
