Now when 1x drivetrains are the de facto choice for mountain and cyclocross riders SRAM is on a mission to provide road and gravel riders with the same simplicity and weight savings with its Rival 1 groupset. The Rival 1 BB30 crank is the centerpiece of the group and turns pedaling into forward motion with precision aluminum construction and superior chain retention.
Thanks to SRAM's commitment to 1x, it produces a wide range of cassettes and rear derailleurs. which allow the transmission to be used with only one ring. When crossover and repeating gear selections are removed from the 2x setting , the gear options become very similar to 1x. We saw how professionals ride with single chainrings for TT and Tri, and such teams as Team Aqua Blue, fully committed to racing 1 time throughout the road season and we think that the changing tides are sure to touch the shores of serious tarmac cyclists.
SRAM makes forged aluminum cranks which provides efficient power transmission at a cost that is much cheaper than carbon fiber offerings. Narrow/wide teeth are a distinctive feature of the design allowing 1x transmissions to exist without any additional chain retention device. It has alternating standard tooth shapes with square profile teeth which grip the inner chain plates improving chain stability and retention. For gravel and cross cyclists, SRAM has cleverly included recesses which help clean dirt when it is dirty.