Ratio Kit Transforms SRAM T-Type Mechanical for Drop Bar Bicycles

Ratio has introduced an innovative conversion kit, bridging the gap between SRAM's robust T-Type mechanical drivetrains and the growing community of drop bar bicycle users. This development marks a significant step for gravel riders and road cyclists who can now harness the acclaimed shifting precision and durability of T-Type systems. Previously, the unique cable pull ratio of T-Type mechanical components posed a barrier for integration with drop bar configurations. Ratio's solution specifically enables the pairing of SRAM Apex 12-speed mechanical shifters with the high-performance Eagle 70 and Eagle 90 derailleurs, bringing a new level of mechanical shifting efficiency to a broader range of cycling disciplines.

This conversion not only expands the usability of SRAM's advanced drivetrain technology but also underscores a commitment to enhancing the cycling experience through clever engineering. The kit's design focuses on seamless integration, ensuring that the benefits of T-Type, such as superior load-bearing shifting and the resilience of the Full Mount derailleur hanger, are fully realized on drop bar bikes. This innovation is poised to influence how cyclists approach drivetrain customization, offering more versatility and performance options for those seeking to optimize their rides across varied terrains.

Expanding Drivetrain Compatibility: Ratio's Innovative Approach

Ratio's newly unveiled conversion kit serves a crucial function by allowing the sophisticated SRAM T-Type mechanical drivetrains, celebrated for their resilience and performance in challenging mountain biking conditions, to be adapted for drop bar bicycles. This development caters specifically to a segment of cyclists, including gravel adventurers and road riders, who previously couldn't leverage the advantages of T-Type technology due to technical incompatibilities. The kit ingeniously resolves the issue of differing cable pull ratios, a primary obstacle that prevented the integration of SRAM's mechanical T-Type components with drop bar shifters. By doing so, Ratio opens up new possibilities for cyclists to customize their setups, enhancing both the functionality and the riding experience on diverse terrains.

The essence of this innovation lies in its ability to facilitate a seamless connection between SRAM Apex 12-speed mechanical drop bar shifters and the robust Eagle 70 and Eagle 90 derailleurs. Crafted from CNC-machined 6082 aluminum, the conversion kit includes a specialized replacement link and a fin, alongside a rear-exit cable stop equipped with an integrated barrel adjuster. This precise engineering ensures that the derailleur operates perfectly with an Apex shifter, while the cable stop optimizes cable routing for gravel bikes, and the barrel adjuster provides crucial fine-tuning capabilities. For cyclists eager to adopt this system, a UDH-compatible frame is essential, along with T-Type mechanical components such as the derailleur, cassette, and chain. While there's an initial investment for those transitioning from different ecosystems, the kit offers a compelling upgrade path to superior mechanical shifting performance at a price point of £70, making advanced drivetrain technology accessible to a wider audience.

Unlocking T-Type Performance for Drop Bar Enthusiasts

The introduction of Ratio's conversion kit signifies a significant advancement for cyclists who favor drop bar setups but desire the unparalleled performance of SRAM's T-Type mechanical drivetrains. Historically, the distinct cable pull ratio of SRAM's T-Type systems posed a challenge for integrating them with drop bar shifters, limiting their application primarily to mountain bikes. Ratio's engineering expertise has overcome this hurdle, providing a direct pathway for gravel and road cyclists to benefit from T-Type's renowned features. This includes its exceptional ability to maintain smooth and precise shifting even under heavy load, a characteristic particularly valuable for the demanding conditions often encountered in gravel cycling, alongside the enhanced durability offered by the Full Mount derailleur hanger design. The kit's ability to unlock these performance advantages for drop bar users represents a notable evolution in bicycle component compatibility.

The meticulous design of the conversion kit, featuring precision-engineered components like the 6082 aluminum replacement link, a specifically designed fin, and a rear-exit cable stop with an integrated barrel adjuster, highlights Ratio's commitment to quality and functionality. These elements are critical for achieving the correct cable pull ratio, ensuring optimal interaction between the Apex 12-speed shifters and the T-Type derailleurs. The integrated barrel adjuster further refines the system's usability by allowing for easy, on-the-fly adjustments, which is a key advantage for maintaining peak shifting performance across varied riding conditions. While specific hardware, including a UDH-compatible frame and T-Type specific derailleur, cassette, and chain, are prerequisites, the £70 cost of the Ratio kit positions it as an accessible upgrade for cyclists looking to experience the robust and reliable mechanical shifting of SRAM T-Type systems on their drop bar bikes. This innovation effectively expands the horizons for performance-oriented cyclists, blending the best of mountain bike drivetrain technology with the versatility of drop bar cycling.