The SRAM RIVAL XPLR XG-1251 cassette revolutionizes the gravel experience with its 10-44 tooth gearing optimized for demanding off-road rides. With its 440% range, it offers ideal coverage for cyclists seeking a high-performance single chainring capable of tackling technical climbs on gravel and fast descents on asphalt.

Designed exclusively for SRAM XPLR AXS 12-speed drivetrains, this cassette features MINI CLUSTER technology combining lightweight and robustness: the four smallest cogs are machined from a single steel block, while the remaining eight cogs are assembled via PinDome steel pin construction.

Technical architecture and positioning

The XG-1251 is positioned at Rival level in the SRAM XPLR range, offering exceptional quality/durability ratio. Unlike the XG-1271 (Force level) which features a 44-tooth aluminum largest cog to save weight (373 g), the XG-1251 prioritizes longevity with an all-steel 44-tooth cog, bringing total weight to 412 grams. This choice ensures increased wear resistance on intensive gravel rides.

• X-Range technology: Developed by SRAM, it reduces gaps between cogs while offering a record 440% range, ensuring smooth progression and consistent gear shifts
• Electronic shifting optimization: Each tooth profile is specifically designed for eTap AXS shifting, guaranteeing ultra-fast, precise and silent shifts
• MINI CLUSTER construction: Combines CNC-machined zones (10-17 tooth cogs) and steel pin-assembled zones (19-44 tooth cogs), reducing weight without sacrificing structural rigidity

Compatibility and standards

This cassette requires strict compatibility constraints that must be respected for optimal operation:

• Freehub body: Exclusively compatible with SRAM XDR drivers (12/13-speed road SRAM standard). Does NOT work with XD bodies (MTB) or Shimano/Campagnolo standards
• Mandatory chain: Absolutely requires a SRAM Flattop 12-speed chain (D1 or E1), whose larger diameter rollers are designed for this gearing. Incompatible with standard 12-speed chains
• Rear derailleur: Only SRAM XPLR 1x derailleurs (available in Red, Force or Rival XPLR). Standard SRAM Red AXS and Force AXS road derailleurs do NOT handle the 44-tooth cog
• Configuration: 1x (single chainring) system exclusively, typically paired with 38, 40 or 42-tooth chainrings for gravel

Terrain performance and usage

The 10-11-13-15-17-19-21-24-28-32-38-44 tooth gearing has been meticulously calculated to meet the demands of modern gravel:

• Steep and technical climbs: The 44-tooth cog provides a very short gear ratio allowing you to climb steep gradients on loose gravel without walking, even with a 40-tooth chainring (ratio equivalent to a 30×36 in double chainring)
• Fast sections and descents: The 10-tooth cog ensures sufficient gear development to maintain pressure on rolling sections and asphalt, avoiding the spinning-out sensation