by Gloria Cycling

Is SRAM Apex AXS (Electronic Shifting) Any Good? Yes and Here is Why We Love It!

Is SRAM Apex AXS (Electronic Shifting) Any Good? Yes and Here is Why We Love It!

 

How Does Apex AXS Compare to Rival, Force, and Red?

Feature Apex AXS Rival AXS Force AXS Red AXS
Wireless shifting
Gearing 1x only 1x / 2x 1x / 2x 1x / 2x
Material Aluminum Aluminum Carbon / Alloy mix Mostly Carbon
Weight Reasonable Slightly Lighter than Apex Lighter Lightest for the highest level
Price 💸 Most affordable 💸💸 💸💸💸 💸💸💸💸
Performance feel Smooth & reliable Comes in a 2x Crisp & race-tuned Pro-level precision
Mullet compatibility
UDH / T-Type compatible

Apex gives you 80% of the performance for 40% of the cost!

When we set out to build high-performance, no-nonsense titanium bikes at Gloria, we didn’t just focus on the frames. We made sure every part of the build felt smart, fast and future-proof. That’s why SRAM Apex AXS has become one of our go-to groupsets!

If you're wondering whether it's 'good enough' let’s be clear:
SRAM Apex AXS gives you wireless shifting, modern drivetrain compatibility, and rugged reliability at a fraction of the price of SRAM’s top-end groupsets.

But it’s not just about specs, it’s about how well it fits our vision: building bikes that you can ride hard, service easily, and trust for years to come. Paired with our All-Road Titanium frame, this setup is a workhorse with soul.

So, What Exactly Is SRAM Apex AXS?

Apex AXS is SRAM’s new and most accessible wireless electronic groupset ever. It shares the same AXS protocol used across the Red, Force, and Rival lines; which means seamless upgrades and full ecosystem compatibility!

  • 38T/40T 1x combined with a 10-44 will have you covered in all situations
  • Easy to charge detachable Battery, spares can also be taken for emergencies for those 2 week back packing trips!
  • Fully Wireless allows for clean front end without shifting cable or battery cables!

It’s simple, effective and built to take a beating, just like a proper Titanium gravel bike should be.

UDH: Future-Proofing Done Right

Our frames are UDH compatible, meaning they support SRAM’s Universal Derailleur Hanger. Here’s why that matters:

  • Easy to replace: No more hunting for obscure hangers — UDH is universal.
  • Cleaner shifting: It improves derailleur alignment, which means more precise shifts.
  • Ready for upgrades: UDH makes your bike compatible with T-Type (Transmission) - SRAM’s most advanced MTB drivetrain yet.
  • Stronger in crashes: UDH rotates under impact to reduce damage to the derailleur or dropout.

To summarise: UDH = stronger, simpler, smarter. It’s one of those small choices that makes a big difference in the long run.

Why It is the perfect pairing on our GLORIA Titanium Bike

Titanium is known for two things: ride quality and longevity. It doesn’t fatigue, it absorbs buzz better than carbon, and it looks damn good while doing it.

At £2999, Our Gloria All Road - Apex AXS - DT Swiss Wheelset is designed to take on pavement, gravel, light trails, and loaded touring. Pairing it with Apex AXS makes a ton of sense:

  • Sleek lines and fewer cables to rattle loose with our Zipp finishing Kit and integrated headset spacers.
  • Less to worry about, especially off-road
  • Gearing for steep climbs or bikepacking trips
  • Reliable DT Swiss Hubs and Wheels that can take a beating, but don't weigh too much
  • Built to last, just like Titanium

This isn’t about being overly flashy, it’s about building a bike you actually want to ride, every day and anywhere!

If you want a bike that delivers; wireless shifting, real-world reliability and easy to upgrade potential down the road, Then the SRAM Apex AXS groupset on our Gloria All Road Titanium, is a no-brainer!