Just Riding Along

SRAM serious about road group

Apparently, the recent leaked photos of SRAM's road components were not just a publicity stunt.  These products are the real deal and are already making waves at Eurobike in Germany.  Check this bit just reported on BicycleRetailer.com:

Meanwhile, SRAM was drawing crowds with the first public display of its road group, along with displays of a new 9-speed internal hub and a freeride concept bike that includes a new long-travel RockShox fork. All three are expected to be on ’07 lines.

And this quote from SRAM's PR guy:

“We’re actively selling this to OE’s right now,” ...he said about the road gruppo, which will include shifters, brakes, bottom bracket, cranks and cassette. Zimberoff said the group will likely be released at two high-end price points."

SRAM stressing Shimano?

Tim over at Masiguy offers his take of the new SRAM road shifters.  In his opinion, they pose a more significant threat to Shimano than Campy does.

"as a Product Manager for a bike brand, it gives me another option for road parts, which is always good. Also, it creates more "pressure" for Shimano...Maybe it is just me, but this could prove to be some of the biggest news in road componentry of the past few years."

SRAM - who also owns Truvativ, Rock Shox and Avid - is already much better positioned to offer the elusive "complete drivetrain" than Shimano is.  More info on SRAM's road stuff from Cyclingnews.com.