FIRST LOOK: SRAM GX 1x11 and Guide Ultimate
Trail riding in Australia is well-suited to a 1x group set. And the new SRAM GX 1x11 looks to be perfect, as if it's not quite working out, you can always add a ring, shifter and mech.
We’ve had the Santa Cruz 5010 C in the shed for almost 3 months. And let’s not mince words – this is one ideal trail bike. More than a few people on the trails, in stores, and within the industry have commented that it’s about as much bike as anyone needs, for the type of riding we have in most of Australia.
And I’m certainly inclined to agree. The finish of the frame is immaculate, the handling is agile yet stable, and the suspension feels bottomless when descending but offers a killer platform for climbing and powering on the flats.
We’ve had Aiden from Cyclinic get an EVOL air can on the back shock, but we also used his mechanical expertise to fit a GX 1×11 group set and SRAM Guide Ultimate brakes. While there was nothing wrong with the XT brakes or 2×10 group set on there, it didn’t match as well with Australian trail riding as a wide range 1×11 group.
The 5010 has been packed up and is now set for a heavy week of trail riding… in New Zealand. Stay tuned for the ride impressions.
