Sneak Peek: First Glimpse of SRAM's X01 Drivetrain 37

If you've been wanting to try SRAM's revolutionary XX1 drivetrain but couldn't afford it, there's very likely a more affordable X01 version dropping soon. Niner Bikes released an image of their new ROS 9 hardtail sporting the X01 drivetrain just yesterday, and previously hinted at the group's arrival.

The spec list for the ROS 9 includes:

• SHIFTER: SRAM 11spd XO1
• DERAILLEUR: SRAM 11spd XO1
• CASSETTE: SRAM XD-1195 11spd 10-42t
• CHAIN: SRAM PC1170
• CRANKSET: SRAM XO1 32t
• BOTTOM BRACKET: SRAM XO1 32t

Perhaps the biggest change to the group is the crankset, which will be made of aluminum. Compared to XX1, the spider looks to be much larger in the image shown above, meaning we'll see new chainring dimensions . Will the range still include 28 to 38-tooth rings? The photo here shows a 32-tooth ring and it's a tight fit, so we'll have to wait and see. Just like XX1, the new chainring uses an alternating thick-thin X-Sync tooth design to help with chain retention.

According to Niner's specs, it'll still use SRAM's PC1170 chain, the same hollow-pin 11-speed chain used in the XX1 group.

Out back, X01 retains the large 10-42 tooth cassette. Given the range, we expect that the same XD freehub body will be required. Note that part numbers on the cassette have changed, so it's likely that SRAM is using a different (cheaper) manufacturing method than the single piece cassette found on XX1.

The X01 derailleur uses SRAM's Type 2 clutch system and keeps the X-Horizon straight parallelogram design.

Niner's ROS 9 sports an X01 trigger shifter up front, but Grip Shift will also be available.

At this point SRAM hasn't confirmed anything, but an Australian bike shop claims pricing will be in the $1,000 to $1,200 range, and that the group will be available this September.