US-based SRAM have four groupsets for dedicated road use, but unlike Shimano and Campagnolo do not currently offer an electronic gear system.

SRAM’s gear changing system is known as DoubleTap and moving the gears both up and down the range is actuated by the smaller lever that sits behind the brake lever: one long sweep to change into an easier gear, and a short stroke to click down into a smaller, harder pedaling gear.

Groupset hierarchy

Apex is a 10-speed groupset that features SRAM’s proprietary WiFli system. WiFli offers an extremely wide spread of gears on the rear cassette (between 11 to 32 teeth) and negates the requirement for triple-ringed chainsets. Apex is normally found on bikes in the £750 to £1,200 price bracket.

Next up, SRAM’s Rival system sits in competition with Shimano 105. And just like 105, Rival upgrades to 11-speed for 2015. There’s also a fully hydraulic brake option at an extra cost. Expect this evergreen, performance-driven groupset to adorn bikes around £1,000 to £1,500.

Next in line is SRAM’s Force groupset where lightweight alloys and carbon fibre provide a very competitive 11-speed system that’s normally found on bikes in the £1,500 to £2,500 price category. Force is popular with racers who want a lightweight, performance-focused groupset which won’t break the bank. Expect to pay a little more if you choose the hydraulic disc brake option.

SRAM’s Red gruppo is their pro-level system and is regarded to be the lightest groupset on the market. Ceramic bearings, titanium, carbon fibre and high-grade alloys all add up to a tour winning combination. The Red groupset is also available with WiFli gearing and hydraulic disc brakes.

How about Campagnolo?