Is SRAM Transmission Getting Faster? New Firmware Update

Sram Transmission is probably one of the most industry shifting (see what I did there) products we have seen in a very long time. After all, SRAM singlehandedly had the entire bike industry adapt their frames to accept UDH. I have always had some issues with the shift speed and have wished it would speed up to come closer to the older AXS system. While I have appreciated the durabiltiy of the Transmission system, the speed is still something I continue to look for. So that is why this email intrigued me, it looks like the system will be getting a slight update to speed via a firmware update. It does look to only affect shifts of 3 consecutive shifts, but this is interesting nonetheless!

Here is the press release:

Eagle Transmission Cassette Mapping is a combination of X-Sync technology on the

cassette and precise derailleur movements which are controlled by AXS firmware. This

derailleur shift sequence features specific timings that let the chain move across the

cassette while maintaining full engagement, which allows you to shift when and where

you want. Firmware 2.53.8 reduces the time between successive derailleur shifts of

three or more and aligns better with common cassette rotational speeds. This update is

based on years of additional post launch testing and maintains the chain engagement

standards that are required for the best shift under load.

FAQ:

Q: What does the firmware do?

A: Firmware 2.53.8 contains a timing update to the Cassette Mapping Multishift intervals.

This means that on successive shifts of three or more, the derailleur will move quicker

between gear positions.

Q: Does this mean that Eagle Transmission will shift quicker?

A: It can speed up successive shifts of three or more, but this is largely dependent on the

cassette. Shifting between cogs is enabled by the rotational speed of the cassette in

combination with the derailleur movement between gear positions. These are two

independent movements, whereby the derailleur position must move first before the

chain can be released to the shift lanes of the cassette to change between cogs.

Firmware 2.53.8 is designed to align better with common cassette rotational speeds

while you ride.

Q: Why didn’t SRAM choose this quicker timing initially?

A: The original timing chosen for Cassette Mapping was optimized through our test lab and

our expansive Field Test rider program. The goal was to have the best shift quality

possible and to focus on long-term wear of the system. After years of much more testing

and ride data, we are confident that we can reduce the time between successive shifts

while maintaining our industry-leading shifting under load and the long-term durability of

Eagle Transmission cassettes and chains.

Q: When will this update be available?

A:This will be available for existing Eagle Transmission riders via a firmware update

performed through the SRAM AXS App. And will also be available with the limited-

edition Eagle Transmission 1987 Groupset, and on all other Eagle Transmission

derailleurs that are now shipping from our factory.

Q: Do I need to have Multishift enabled to experience the benefit?

A: This timing update can be felt with or without Multishift enabled. On pedal powered

bikes, enabling Multishift will allow for the fastest possible shifting input. On e-MTB &

Pedelec style bicycles with electric assist, Multishift must not be used to preserve

warranty.

Q: How do I update my firmware?

A: Updating firmware via the SRAM AXS APP is easy. Follow the instructions found here.