Shimano first produced bike drivetrains in the 1920s. Its first ready-made product is indexed shifting. Over time, they explored and added more mountain bike parts. When this is continued, SRAM enters this field as a deity competitor of Shimano.
Now, Shimano XT and SRAM X01 have been competing with each other, and their users need clarification. They promised they could produce 12-speed electronic shifts at a time. But did they tell us the truth? Let’s find out.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Features | Shimano XT | SRAM X01 |
| Shifters | Trigger | Trigger twister |
| Crankset (Axle type) | Hollowetch II | BB30 GXP |
| Crank length | 175 mm | 175 mm |
| MTB Group Set Type | Single | Single |
| Shifting Type | Mechanical | Mechanical |
| Brakes | Included | Not included |
| Boosting Suitability | Boost (B148) | No Boost (B148) |
Feature Comparison of The Shimano XT And SRAM X01
We already discussed the key difference between these two big bike parts makers above; now it’s time to discuss them in depth. We start with the unique features between them to clarify everything crystal clear.
- Shifters
Both Shimano and SRAM have their shifters.
Their manufacturer shifters help downshift multiple gears in a single stroke.
But the difference that we notice is that Shimano XTR is far more positive when shifting.
They’re well-engineered to shift the chain up and down smoothly underneath the cassette. It feels amazing.
The shifts always control the cassette of the shift due to the power of Hyperglide functionality.
On the other hand, SRAM X01 is coming with the same previous shifting model. Although they have not added any special functions here, it still performs smoothly.
- Mechanical Vs. Electrical
You feel more comfortable when it seems necessary to push the shift upward. The SPAM X01 is flexible as they consider adding a customization option to their products. Customization is vital as they are capable of each rider driving the bike on their way.
On the other hand, Shimano Xt is also great and has some exceptional traits. It is the most significant mechanical shifter on the market currently. You got everything to push the bike’s gears nicely in one part.
- Weight
Weighing capacity is significant when anyone is willing to pay much for a group setting. Therefore, we individually collect each part’s weight of SRAM and Shimano. This makes it easier to justify which would come out on top.
| Parts Name | Shimano XTR (Weights) | SRAM X01 |
| Rear Derailleur | 244 gm | 388 gm |
| Crank set | 530 gm | 475 gm |
| Bottom Bracket | 68 gm | 77 gm |
| Shifter | 187 gm | 83 gm |
| Cassette | 370 gm | 356 gm |
| Chain | 245 gm | 263 gm |
As we say that these aren’t the weight of total components, we try to collect to build up statics. If counted down, the total weight of each Shimano group set is around 1644 gm. Besides, SRAM X01 ranges around 1642 gm.
This provides hints on which you should fall for. However, in the battle of the lightweights, SRAM is the hero for manufacturing lighter carbon cranks. But Shimano goes into the death notes paper for gaining a heavyweight.
- Crank Arms
Another big difference after the shifter is their crank arms fabrication material.
Shimano XT keeps its predecessor’s promises very firmly.
That’s why they always put HOLLOWTECH fabricated material on every bike.
They’re undoubtedly super durable and lightweight, which didn’t let their users complain about them.
Comparatively, SRAM offers carbon fiber and strongly fabricated elements. Carbon fiber is also able to provide average durability and strength. But we will put them at a different stage than Shimano.
- Gear Steps
SRAM is becoming more advanced in updating its components. They focus on core fundamentals that may help them add a new mountain bike breed. In one package, they offer narrow, wide teeth chain rings, 12 cogs with tight fits, etc.
Every part of SRAM X01 is suitable for long trips and deep trails. Also, SRAM Eagle is ready to experience more giant steps between the 28 to 39 teeth. It has been evident this one is the best masterpiece for the emergency bail-out and for handling smooth transitions.
Besides, the Shimano bike group set has over 12 kinds of stuff. The number of parts of these items is more than X01. This one also comes with faster and smoother gear steps.
- Installation Guidelines
The installation guidance with the SRAM is imperative for performance. They try to keep it as simple as possible. For this, anyone can quickly assemble them on their bike. To make it more crystallized, they offer a new innovative device.
This device is often called the “Eagle chain gap tool.” This device’s work is another remarkable innovation because it can measure the spacing correctly. Moreover, they provide a detailed video to answer questions asked by the customer.
Shimano, on the contrary, needed to clarify more about the installation process. Yet, they offer marvelous outputs on road trips.
Final Winner: Which One Should Go?
Deciding between the XT and X01, we might put our golden crown on the XT.
It is because of this brand’s performance and smooth, solid shifting.
The quality of the shifter and derailleur is top-notch in Shimano.
Moreover, the XT build is several hundred pounds cheaper, which might snatch your attention.
But we will acknowledge the ample power and trouble-free riding amenities from the SRAM. All in all, everyone who likes to ride on a lightweight handlebar shouldn’t avoid this.
It’s because they’d already uplifted their position into the drivetrain sector by yielding carbon cranks stuff for bikes.
Also Read: Differences Between Garmin 830 And Hammerhead Karoo 2.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Shimano XTR M9100 gives a similar performance to SRAM X01. This one is excellent, outputs and smooth riding like X01.
The SRAM equivalent of Shimano XT is Shimano’s XT. It is worthy of providing similar performance to 12-speed options.
Shimano XT is the most reliable bike-making part due to its solid materials. Most of the parts are worthy of matching the expectations of the latest generation.
Shimano is much better than SRAM due to the fine finish of the parts. Moreover, it makes learning bike riding more comfortable, easy, and swift.
Conclusion
Lastly, we hope you might understand now and have already decided which one to pick, Shimano XT or SRAM X01. Most of its users suggest going with Shimano XT. They insist that it is the builders that can exactly drive your bike.
That means you will feel the difference after you attach those parts to the bike. The supreme quality of Shimano is its shift quality. However, SRAM is not so poor in the battle.
