The Rival 22 performed impressively well in initial ride tests - functionally, it is almost indistinguishable from the more expensive groupsets. Above all, the shifting behaviour at the front has improved radically with the Yaw technology of the front derailleur, which has been adopted from the more expensive groupsets. The shifting behaviour at the rear is also good, it feels crisper and comes closer to the characteristic shifting of Red and Force. The shape of the shifters now corresponds to the new generation and is more comfortable to grip, while the silver and black contrasting design gives the groupset a more premium look. The difference in price is particularly noticeable in the weight: The crank arms, brake levers and shift levers are made of aluminium, the extra weight compared to the SRAM Force is likely to be just under 200 grams. To meet the requirements of leisure cyclists, there is an optional WiFli rear derailleur for sprocket sets up to 32 teeth; the rim brakes allow the combination with 28 millimetre tyres. Prices start at around 550 euros for the groupset in the most favourable set-up.
A detailed overview of the new products for the 2015 season can be found in the 24-page extra in the September issue of TOUR, which will be available from newsagents from 27 August and conveniently online here.
Further information
