Back to the future? With the new Eagle 90 Transmission drivetrain, SRAM are going all-in on simplification – bringing a shift cable to their direct-mount derailleur. So, no AXS battery, no hassle? But the big question is: can the cable-operated Eagle 90 Transmission drivetrain keep up with its electronic counterpart, or does it call for compromises?
Almost exactly two years ago, the web got inundated with pictures of SRAM employees jumping on derailleurs to prove their durability. That was when SRAM unveiled their new Eagle Transmission groupsets – all direct-mount, all electronic. Since then, the more affordable SRAM GX Eagle AXS Transmission was added to the line-up. Now SRAM are taking it a step further, introducing their most budget-friendly option yet: the cable-operated Eagle 90 Transmission. Despite forgoing electronics, it’s designed to deliver the same level of comfort and performance. The complete SRAM Eagle 90 mechanical Transmission kit retails at €730.
When SRAM introduced the Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) standard, few people realised what it would actually lead to – namely, a derailleur mounted directly to the frame, without a mech hanger. Since then, SRAM’s website has put the spotlight firmly on their Transmission models – aka T-Type drivetrains, which dominate the spec sheets of many bike manufacturers. There are hardly any modern MTBs left that don’t rely on the UDH standard. What remains are mostly lower-priced builds, which still rely on cable-operated drivetrains, which help save costs. And that’s exactly where SRAM are aiming their next move.
Curious about the drivetrain’s latest updates and how it performed in our test? You’ll find the full review over at our sister magazine ENDURO.
Words: Julian Schwede Photos: Peter Walker
