Sram’s new electric bike system controls not only the motor but also the drivetrain.
October 3, 2023 in 2:08pm ET
When it comes to bike technology, Sram is a brand trusted by a wide range of cyclists around the world. Its products have always focused on performance, and its top-class drivetrains feature cutting-edge technology. However, in the field of electric bikes, Sram loses out to other prominent companies, namely Shimano and Bosch. That is, until now.
Sram just got into the e-bike powertrain game and dropped a bombshell that’s sure to have tech-obsessed e-bikers drooling. Now, any Sram enthusiast can outfit his bike with Sram equipment, everything from the motor to the drivetrain to the suspension (manufactured by Sram subsidiary RockShox). The company’s new electric bike system is called ‘Sram Eagle Powertrain’ and is being touted as one of the smartest electric bike systems out there.
The brand’s proprietary software not only controls the motor, but also the drivetrain, allowing the controller to shift gears to suit the rider. This uses sensors to adjust your gear so you’re always pedaling at your optimal cadence. Sram calls this smart feature Auto Shift. It’s very simple, if not devoid of creativity. Even better, Sram’s new Coast Shift feature allows you to, you guessed it, shift gears while coasting and seamlessly pedal at the right cadence when you crank it up again on long downhill sections.
It’s really interesting to see such a comprehensive e-bike powertrain solution from one of the leading OEMs in the cycling component industry. However, it is important to note that Sram is not alone in achieving this. We have partnered with Brose, a popular German e-bike system brand known for its practical e-bike systems on commuter and cargo bikes. Leveraging the company’s already impressive motors, Sram has developed intuitive software that allows for all the great integration features between the motor and drivetrain.
When it comes to outright performance, the Sram Eagle powertrain puts out a maximum torque of 90 Newton meters and a maximum power of 680 watts (nominal output is 250 watts, so it complies with European e-bike regulations). That said, it pumps out more torque than any other leading e-bike system with a rating of 85 Newton meters. The Sram Eagle powertrain is compatible with Brose’s battery technology, so it runs on the company’s 630 and 720 watt-hour units. It is also compatible with a 250 watt hour range extender for long distance driving.
Of course, it goes without saying that the Eagle powertrain is interoperable with all of Sram’s AXS components with wireless connectivity. So anyone looking for a highly streamlined complete electronic setup will definitely be satisfied. Sram is expected to launch its new Eagle powertrain soon in a number of new premium electric bikes. However, these are expected to be from top-of-the-line brands and are expected to come at a significant premium.
