Every generation of Red gets scrutinized for how much weight SRAM can trim without compromising the platform, and the E1 crankset is where the newest round of that engineering shows up. The one-piece 2x chainring construction is central to the update — it results in a lighter weight, stiffer, more durable crankset that comes in 29 grams lighter than the previous generation . If you're building a Red AXS drivetrain and don't need integrated power measurement out of the box, this is the crankset that lets you stay in the ecosystem without paying for a spider you may already own.

Ultra-light hollow carbon fiber crankarms handle the stiffness side of the equation, and X-Range gearing technology gives you more range and a smoother gear progression, so you're always in the right gear . The one-piece chainring design bolts directly to the 8-bolt Direct Mount interface, which improves chainline over bonded-spider designs and keeps the front shift crisp under load. Front shifts on this platform have always been Red's strong suit, and the tighter tolerances between rings and arms are part of why.

Three chainring combinations cover the range most road riders need: 50/37T, 48/35T, and 46/33T . The 50/37 works for flatter terrain and faster group riding, the 48/35 is the do-everything option most riders default to, and the 46/33 opens up the climbing gears for hilly routes or riders spec'ing this on a lighter gravel build. Pair the chainring choice to your terrain — you can't swap rings without swapping the whole one-piece unit, so getting the pairing right up front matters.... Read More