It’s no secret that SRAM’s had a motor cooking for quite some time. Last year, Nukeproof racer Elliot Heap was spotted racing with a prototype at the EWS-E for one thing. Then SRAM acquired Amprio, a German motor brand. So while the product itself is no surprise, it’s what’s lurking beneath the covers that’s intriguing, and potentially divisive.
In recent years, SRAM has increasingly funnelled its components down the path of system integration. By optimising individual parts to work together in a structured way, variables can be eliminated and performance can be enhanced. Although mountain bikers notoriously hate being beholden to a specific brand, or system, when it comes time to replace worn or broken parts. But that’s a debate for a different day. The point is, Eagle Powertrain takes this strategy to new levels, which, depending on your viewpoint, is either extremely exciting or hugely frustrating.
SRAM’s new e-bike Powertrain is designed to work exclusively with its new T-Type AXS transmission. To enjoy Eagle Powertrain’s advantages, you have to go – if you’ll excuse the phrase – balls deep. Those advantages are two-fold: full wireless control of power modes, gear changes, and dropper
