SRAM is extending its range of complete groupsets with the announcement of the 'Via GT' and 'Via Centro' lines.
Both of these newly developed groupsets are designed for use in the trekking and urban segments. The Via GT and Via Centro are descendants of the well-known and proven Sram RED and Sram X0 groupsets. though a lot of the technology is trickled down, the Via GT crankset is an entirely new design, tailored to the demands of urban riding. The chain guard is compatible with a 48/32 crankset or a single chainring version. The crankset is supported on a GXP bearing with special new dirt seals for long service life.
Designed for trekking, the all-new two-ring 48/32 X Glide chainrings make quick and easy gear changes possible, similar to SRAM's top road racing groupsets. The Via GT shift mechanism has been specially optimized for use with an 11-36 cassette. A longer cage (93 mm) and aluminum forged parts within the shift mechanism provide the necessary stiffness in all gears. Super Compact – with 48/32 and a 11-36 cassette SRAM offers a new, wide enough gear range to match trekking requirements. This offers the cyclist a wide range of gears, without the excess weight of unnecessary and duplicate gears.
Gear shifting is controlled by the trigger shifter, borrowed from SRAM X0. The ball-bearing mounted ergonomic lever shifter changes gears quickly and precisely. The large and easy-to-read gear indicator provides rapid orientation.
The derailleur is optimally matched to 2×10 and ensures that all gears are available without annoying chain rub. Because safety is particularly important in town, the SRAM Via GT is available with two different brake system options, V brakes and hydraulic disc brakes. The Via GT disc brake has been 'urbanized' so that it slows gradually without aggressive grab.
Lighting is provided by two hub dynamos of different power. The optimized coil doesn't flicker, even at slow speeds.
Stock will land in the UK from September.