Wireless shifting sounded like vaporware until SRAM shipped the Red eTap platform and proved the concept was production-ready. This is the updated A2 version of the Red eTap 11-speed rear derailleur, which brings Orbit chain management, larger X-SYNC pulleys, and ceramic bearings to the original design while remaining forwards compatible with 12-speed RED and Force eTap AXS controllers and eTap AXS Blipbox . No cables to stretch, no housing to route, no wires running the length of the frame — the derailleur talks directly to the shifters over an encrypted wireless connection and executes shifts the moment you press.

The shift logic takes about one ride to internalize. Right lever moves the chain to a harder gear, left lever moves it to an easier gear, and pressing both levers at once handles the front derailleur. There's no dedicated front shifter paddle because the dual-press covers it. If you want auxiliary shift buttons for the drops, tops, or aero extensions, Blips plug directly into the levers for remote actuation.

Orbit technology is a form of derailleur motion control that uses silicon fluid as part of a lightweight damper system. Compared to a standard friction clutch, Orbit places no additional resistance on the derailleur's spring under slow or light movement, which means easier shifting and rear wheel removal. While riding, the fluid damper reduces chain bounce. It's a meaningful upgrade over the original A1 derailleur if you ride rough pavement or dirt sections where chain slap becomes an issue.... Read More