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SRAM’s New AXS Pod Rocker Paddle Brings Back the Ergonomics Mountain Bikers Prefer!

SRAM AXS Pod Rocker fixes bad ergonomics of wireless mountain bike transmission shifter, new shift point(Photo/Cory Benson)
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SRAM’s new AXS Pod Rocker addresses a hiccup that came with all the latest T-type AXS Transmissions. You see… the new SRAM MTB Pod shifter ergonomics were not a big hit with a lot of racers, MTB brand product managers, and regular ol’ mountain bikers. Sure, their adjustability was great, but it just didn’t feel the same. And after riders learned to love the Rocker paddle that upgraded the original generation of AXS controllers, it was easy to know there could be a better way…

Enter the Pod Rocker!

SRAM AXS Pod Rocker reshifts how wireless mountain bikes shift

SRAM AXS Pod Rocker fixes bad ergonomics of wireless mountain bike transmission shifter
(Photo/Cory Benson)

What’s something we kept noticing on pro XC bikes?

Many were still using the old controller with the Rocker mod, or even something altogether custom like Blips strapped onto their bar. Sure, plenty used the new Pod, but many sought alternatives. And now SRAM has answered the call of mountain bikers!

SRAM AXS Pod Rocker fixes wireless mountain bikes shifting, index finger shift
(Photo/SRAM)

Much like SRAM’s OG Rocker, this new XS Pod Rocker lets riders shift back and forth with their thumb. But now also to reach back with the tip of their index finger to shift both directions, as well. Now, being able to shift from both sides of the Pod, will give riders better ergonomics to take advantage of the original Pod’s angle adjustability.

And of course, you can tweak which way the buttons control shifting, dropping, or Flight Attendant modes via the AXS app.

SRAM AXS Pod Rocker – Pricing, availability & options

SRAM AXS Pod Rocker fixes ergonomics of T-Type wireless MTB controller, on an ebike
(Photo/SRAM)

The new left- or right-specific shift ergonomics are available on new Pods. Or as an upgrade to your existing Pod, just like the gen 1 AXS controller. The SRAM AXS Pod Controller with Rocker only comes pre-fitted complete in the standard Pod with its own ‘Discrete’ clamp for $150 / 170€. You can’t buy a new Ultimate controller or one with a MatchMaker mount already fitted with the new Rocker.

SRAM AXS Pod Rocker reshifts how wireless mountain bikes shift, buy complete controller with discrete clamp or paddle-only upgrade

But, you can buy the left or right Pod Rocker upgrade kit for just $22 / 22€ (including pad, pin & screws), and then upgrade the shift ergonomics of any existing AXS Pod shifter or dropper remote.

Get yours now, wherever SRAM goodies are sold… like, every bikeshop and online retailer.

SRAM.com

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17 Comments
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uhh_whut
uhh_whut
4 months ago

Damn, I can’t believe the garage door opener, attached to a K-Edge mount didn’t take off.

Antoine
Antoine
4 months ago
Reply to  uhh_whut

People don’t like changing habit. There is nothing wrong with the garage opener, that is the most natural solution for an electronic system versus the complicated try to replicate mechanical without being mechanical thingy. However the price is outrageous for a garage opener. This thing should cost 30-40. Obviously it’s more tough and well sealed has to include some pairing unpairing functionnality and is not as widely produced so a bit more than a garage opener but no way 150 is fair to the consumer. Same goes for 600 derailleur and 200 replacement cage.

Mike
Mike
4 months ago

I think I’ll still go with the original AXS rocker shifter – this thing is chunky!

seraph
seraph
4 months ago
Reply to  Mike

The bonus for me about the old rocker is how close to the bar it fits. I don’t like having to reach down to shift.

C Malt
C Malt
4 months ago

That is worth trying. All the other options do not seem to work for me. I’ve got my AXS set up for sale and XTR back on my bike over the ergonomics.

blablabla
blablabla
4 months ago
Reply to  C Malt

I had to ditch the 12s XTR shifter cause they are faulty as hell. I love the double down-shift and overall ergonomics, but Shimano really screwed up in the quality department – after some use the spring for the bigger lever can break making the whole thing just useless. It’s amazing how in one generation they went from possibly the best shifter ever made (XTR M9000) to total failure.

Currently riding a set of X01 shifter + XTR rear der., thinking of switching to XX1 AXS.

syborg
syborg
4 months ago

Not sure where you’ve been. SRAM had to design a shift lever that was similar to the mechanical system cause many people did not like the original rocker functionality. Now both you and SRAM are telling us that this new rocker is the greatest thing since sliced bread. No thanks. I’ll stick with what I got.

Tharpy
Tharpy
4 months ago

Any links to where I can buy just the upgrade? Unable to find it with a quick search.

Deputy Dawg
Deputy Dawg
4 months ago
Reply to  Tharpy

FWIW, I bought a different rocker/whatever for my wife’s bike from Backcountry last summer.

doug
doug
4 months ago

Sram needs to go back to their roots and design a “grip shift” like AXS shifter where a quick 1/4 twist or so forward and backwards could move one gear, and holding it there would shift multiple gears. Use the APP to control which direction you twist and if it shifts up or down. Would beat any of these pods for ergonomics.

Rob
Rob
4 months ago
Reply to  doug

Using the original rocker now, but I’d go for a grip shift design.

edge
edge
4 months ago
Reply to  doug

No, just No. Grip shift looked cool but it was awful to use. Having your wrist angle change exactly when you’re going to descend or climb?

raoul
raoul
4 months ago

Sram got to start making Transmissions product with cable and housing. it a great product but not all the bikes and rider needs wireless.

SNK922
SNK922
4 months ago

I ordered this as soon as I saw it on bikes at Absa Cape Epic.
Been using it now for about a month… FANTASTIC.

I really couldn’t get used to the 2 buttons, I was about to get the old shifter, but this is the best.

edge
edge
4 months ago

So…. design and sell a product with poor ergonomics then make more money by selling you a new and improved accessory. Looks like they are selling the venom and the cure.

jack
jack
1 month ago

Still not available anywhere…

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