
Tried & Tested - Introducing SRAM groupsets in our Gravel Bike Range
Are you ready to take your gravel biking experience to the next level? We are thrilled to introduce SRAM groupsets to our gravel bike range. SRAM is a market leader in the cycling industry, known for its innovative technology and outstanding performance, especially in its gravel-optimised groupset offerings.
The brand's gradual rise to ascendancy in the gravel sector has led to its being regarded as a game-changer for all gravel enthusiasts. In this blog post, we'll explore our current SRAM offerings and highlight how integrating the latest innovative groupsets has been an integral factor in the Ribble Collective's successes this year.
The SRAM Gravel Line-up
SRAM's gravel-specific groupsets are designed to handle the unique demands of off-road and mixed-terrain cycling. Their current line-up includes:
SRAM Apex XPLR: Highly regarded for its simplicity and durability, the Apex XPLR groupset is ideal for gravel enthusiasts who value the straightforward setup of a mechanical 1x system. Its wide gear range ensures smooth and accurate gear shifting across various terrains.
SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS: Combining wide-range gearing with a lightweight design, the Rival XPLR groupset is perfect for gravel riders seeking versatility and performance. It features fully wireless electronic shifting for a clean, cable-free setup.
SRAM Force XPLR: Offering advanced technologies like AXS wireless shifting and hydraulic disc brakes, Force XPLR provides exceptional precision control while connecting rider and machine like never before.

What are the benefits?
When selecting a groupset for your gravel bike, SRAM offers several distinct advantages that make it a top choice for riders of all levels:
Less Maintenance: Unless you're fortunate enough to live in a relatively dry climate, gravel biking will almost certainly involve riding in demanding and unpredictable conditions. All of which can take their toll on your bike's drivetrain components. SRAM groupsets are designed with simplicity and durability in mind, requiring less frequent maintenance. Their robust construction and fewer moving parts mean you can spend more time riding and less time tuning your bike.
Wider Gear Range: SRAM is renowned for its X-Range gearing technology, which provides a wider range of gears while keeping the progression between gears much closer for improved pedalling efficiency. Such gearing allows for smoother transitions and easier climbs, making it ideal for gravel riders who encounter varied terrain.
More Affordable: While SRAM offers premium groupsets like the Red eTap AXS, it also provides a range of more affordable options without compromising on performance or quality. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider on a budget, SRAM's Apex and Rival groupsets deliver excellent performance at a competitive price point, making high-quality gravel biking more accessible for all.
Wireless Electronic Shifting: With AXS, SRAM consigned gear cables to the history books. This fully wireless system connects bike and rider like never before, letting you customise component behaviour, personalise controls, check battery status, and update firmware from your smart device.
Tried & Tested by the Ribble Collective
The Ribble Collective team has been instrumental in showcasing the benefits and pushing the limits of the SRAM groupsets. All the riders have been using Force XPLR AXS in all the races they've competed in this year. Ribble Gravel SL bikes equipped with Force XPLR propelled Maddy to her emphatic win at the UCI Safari Gravel race and supported the team with two riders finishing in the top 20 at The Rift in Iceland.
Every rider who has experienced the flawless gear shifts of SRAM's game-changing groupsets praises their polished performance, reliability and durability. Here are some testimonials from the Ribble Collective and other gravel devotees:

Why Choose SRAM for Your Gravel Bike?
With a reputation for innovation, durability, and performance, SRAM groupsets offer gravel cyclists the ultimate riding experience. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned off-road adventurer, SRAM's gravel offerings provide the technology and reliability you need to conquer any trail.

Explore Our Gravel Range
Explore our range of gravel bikes, including the Gravel SL, AL, AL e, Ti and 725, all equipped with SRAM groupsets. Experience the power and performance of SRAM technology firsthand and elevate your gravel biking adventures.
Make sure to visit our showrooms. Our team is here to help you find the perfect setup for your riding needs, whether you're looking for a simple, reliable groupset or the most advanced wireless electronic shifting available.

Electric Road Bike vs Road Bike – What’s the Difference?
Electric road bikes deliver the same ride, handling and thrill as traditional road bikes, just with a discreet boost that helps you go further, faster, and ride more often.

Winter Bike Training Guide: How to Stay Consistent When It’s Cold, Wet and Dark
Discover how to keep your fitness and motivation rolling all winter long with expert tips from Ribble Outlier and coach, Ben Thomas.

Keep your legs spinning with the Ribble Zwift Winter Racing Series
The evenings might be getting darker, but your riding doesn’t need to stop. Join the Ribble Winter Racing Series on Zwift every Thursday at 7:10 pm to keep your fitness sharp, ride with the Ribble community and add some friendly competition to your winter training. All levels welcome.

Carbon vs Titanium Bike Frames
We pit Carbon and Titanium bikes against each other to uncover the differences and help you make an informed choice for your next cycling upgrade!

Electric Road Bike vs Road Bike - What's the difference?
Electric road bike vs road bike: what’s the real difference? We cut through the myths and show how e-road bikes stack up against traditional road bikes, rider to rider.
Proven on the World Stage: Ribble Outliers at the 2025 UCI Gravel World Championships
A season-defining finale in Limburg: fast, technical racing, a dominant Dutch display, and the Ribble Outliers closing 2025 with grit, heart, and standout rides.
Gravel Worlds 2025: One Last Dance for The Outliers
The Ribble Outliers take on the biggest race of the season - the Gravel World Championships in Limburg, Netherlands - after a year of relentless racing, preparation, and grit, all leading to this final showdown.

How Far Can an Electric Bike Go? Range, Batteries & Real-World Tips
“How far can an electric bike really go?” In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what determines e-bike range, share practical tips to make every charge go further, and show how Ribble’s electric bikes compare in real-world conditions.

No One Knew I Was Riding an E-bike
“No one knew I was riding an E-bike.” It’s the kind of comment we hear all the time from Ribble riders. This is a guide to stealth electric bikes - why stigma exists, how hidden batteries and lightweight frames make the difference, and the real-life experiences of riders.

Are e-bikes Just for Old People? Myths Debunked
Think e-bikes are just for old folks, or perhaps you feel e-bikes are cheating? Think again. We’re busting the biggest myths holding riders back from discovering what e-bikes really offer.

Smiles Per Kilo: The Real Benefit of Riding a Lightweight E-bike
What if the real breakthrough in e-bikes wasn’t more watts or bigger batteries, but a ride so light and natural you forget it’s electric until you want the extra push?

Unfinished Business: Jenson Young Returns to the Three Peaks
Ribble Outlier Jenson Young heads back to the legendary Three Peaks Cyclo-Cross, chasing redemption on Britain’s toughest one-day race after heartbreak on Pen-y-ghent in 2024.

