Complete gravel groupsets

How to choose a gravel groupset

Gravel has its own groupsets, and they are not simply renamed road groupsets: derailleurs with clutches to keep the chain in place over rocks, wide-range cassettes and smaller cranksets. The first decision is always the same — one chainring or two — and it determines everything else.

Single or double chainring

• The 1x (single chainring) does away with the front derailleur. Simpler, quieter, with fewer mechanical problems and a chain that comes off far less often. The jumps between sprockets are bigger: it is the choice for more demanding gravel riding and bikepacking.
• The 2x (double chainring) keeps the gaps between gears small and offers a higher top speed. It is better suited to riders who combine roads and trails, or ride in a group on the flat.
• The model references tell you directly: 1x12, 1x13, 2x12… The first number is the number of chainrings; the second is the number of sprockets.

The ranges available

• Shimano GRX : Shimano’s gravel range, available in mechanical (RX610, RX820, RX822) and electronic Di2 (RX825, and the wireless RX717 and RX827 in 1x12). It offers the widest choice in both 1x and 2x.
• SRAM XPLR AXS : wireless, 12 or 13 speeds for the E1. Red, Force, Rival — and a Force version supplied with a power meter.
• Campagnolo Record X and Super Record X : 1x13, with a cassette that starts at 9 teeth.
• MicroShift Sword : the entry-level option in 9 and 10 speeds, available as mini groupsets for fitting out a bike on a budget.
• Shimano CUES : a versatile 10-speed groupset designed with durability rather than low weight in mind.

Complete or partial groupset

The a complete groupset includes shifters, brake callipers, derailleurs, crankset and cassette. The partial groupset contains only the parts that change how the gears shift — usually the shifters and rear derailleur, sometimes the cassette. It is the right option for switch from one drivetrain to another while keeping your crankset and brakes, or to modernise an existing bike.

What to check on the frame

• The derailleur hanger : SRAM XPLR E1 groupsets mount using Full Mount, directly onto a frame fitted with a UDH. Without UDH, they cannot be fitted.
• The bottom bracket and tyre clearance, which determine which crankset will fit.
• The freehub body on your wheels: the groupset’s cassette dictates the type required (HG, Microspline, XDR or Campagnolo N3W).

To find out more: Which drivetrain should you choose for gravel riding?

See also: Gravel derailleurs · Gravel cassettes · Gravel shifters