SRAM

One of the great things about SRAM eTAP / AXS shifting (as opposed to Shimano Di2) is that you can carry a backup battery with you in case you forget to keep the batteries charged. I had been meaning to get one and was happy to find a sale at Bike Tires Direct. I've ordered other things from biketiresdirect and am always pleased with the whole experience.

You need to have these, I wax my chain,so I'm pulling the power lock on and off every couple weeks, Sram says one time use, I ll use the power lock a few times before replacing, I like to have a few power locks in my tool box , "in stock" , for when I need a new one. I'll use a new one every 3rd time, works fine for me.

My Speedplay Power Dual pedals stopped working properly. I decided to add the Rival power meter upgrade. SRAM had updated the Rival cranks. BTD not only had the old version still in stock, but an open box in my length. I ordered overnight shipping; BTD shipped it out the day I ordered. The meter was relatively easy to install, with directions online. The meter is accurate, easy to calibrate and better yet reliable. Glad I changed to crank-based power.

Bought them, for my road bike, because of all the positive reviews of braking improvement, and I was impressed enough that, I bought another set for my off road bicycle.

The reviews are spot on regarding the improvement in braking performance over the previous generation. MUCH greater braking power with less lever force required. No more feeling like my hands are cramping up on long rocky downhills.

The grip and ergonomics have changed but for me it is not a big deal however, I did put on a shorter stem (80 from 90) because of the change in reach (I am 65 so I do not bend as readily as I used to.)

I replaced only the levers and calipers and I use them with my first generation Force eTap AXS front and rear derailleurs. They work fine.

The big improvement, shifting-wise, is the addition of the Bonus Buttons.

Using the AXS app I set the bonus buttons to shift the front derailleur. First generation shifters required pressing the left and right shift levers simultaneously which could be awkward. The buttons can be programmed to perform other functions but shifting the front derailleur is GREAT for me.

Sometimes I buy stuff and later question whether or not it was a good purchase but this one is a no brainer. Worth every penny to me.