I spend most of my time riding in Mallorca, and like most cyclists I know, I can get a bit obsessed with bike gear — especially when new stuff drops. And this week, SRAM released their updated Force and Rival groupsets, which has already got a lot of people talking.
So I figured I’d throw in my two cents. I’m not a tech journalist or a pro mechanic. I’m just someone who rides a lot, who’s spent way too much money on bikes over the years, and who still gets excited about the sound of a smooth gear shift.
Let’s talk about the new stuff — and then I’ll tell you why I’m still riding mechanical Shimano Ultegra and loving every second of it.
SRAM Force Just Got a Lot More Slick
The new Force looks cleaner — less branding, more stealth. Personally, I think it’s a good move. Looks a bit more custom-build and a bit less “I just dropped 10 grand on a factory race bike.”
They’ve also tweaked the hoods — they’re slightly smaller and shaped a bit nicer. Not a massive change, but if you’re riding 4 or 5 hours in the Mallorcan sun, your hands will appreciate it.
Performance-wise? It’s pretty much Red in disguise. Same wireless shifting, same brakes, just without the eye-watering price tag. For most riders, Force is probably the smart choice.
“Force is now basically Red in disguise — and that’s a good thing for the rest of us.”
Rival’s Still a Solid Choice
If you’re more budget-conscious (aren’t we all these days?), SRAM Rival is still a cracking bit of kit. It’s a bit heavier than Force, sure, but you still get wireless shifting and solid braking. And honestly, most riders won’t notice the difference in weight unless you’re racing crits every weekend.
For most of the guests on our camps, though, the rental bikes we use come with Shimano Ultegra or Ultegra Di2 — and they’re brilliant. Smooth shifting, rock-solid reliability, and great gearing for Mallorca’s mix of steep ramps and long climbs. Whether you’re pushing for performance or just want something that won’t let you down, Ultegra’s got you covered.
But Here’s the Truth: I Ride Mechanical Shimano Ultegra
Yep. Still. I’ve tried Di2. I’ve spent the money. And I’ll admit, it’s slick. The shifting is lovely. But you know what? Mechanical Ultegra just works.
No batteries. No charging. No worrying if your derailleur is going to have a meltdown halfway up Puig Major. I’ve never been caught out by a dead battery, because — well — there isn’t one.
And here’s something else: when my bike tips over outside a café while I’m inside enjoying a cortado and a slice of cake, I don’t panic. Mechanical is tough. It takes a knock and keeps going. It’s reliable, low-maintenance, and has that solid, tactile feel that I really enjoy.
Honestly? I don’t feel like I’m missing out.
Should You Upgrade?
Maybe. If you’re riding something older and clunky, and you're curious about wireless shifting, then yeah — Force and Rival are both solid upgrades. Especially now with these new versions.
But if your current setup works, and you’re happy? Stick with it. There’s nothing wrong with riding your kit into the ground. I know riders here who are still on 10-speed and fly up Sa Calobra like it’s nothing.
What About the Gearing?
SRAM’s wide-range gearing setups are still brilliant. The 10-36 or even 10-44 cassettes mean you can spin your way up the climbs instead of grinding your knees into dust. Especially helpful if you’re doing multiple big days in the mountains like we do here.
Whether you’re someone who likes to spin fast or push a heavier gear, SRAM gives you more choice — and that’s never a bad thing.
So, What Do You Think?
Are you still riding mechanical like me? Have you gone full Di2 or SRAM AXS? Are you Team Shimano, SRAM, or Campag?
I’m always curious what other riders are using — and why. So if you’ve got a take, let’s hear it.
Fancy Testing Your Gears in the Mountains?
If you’re ready to put your bike (and your legs) through their paces, come ride with us in Mallorca.
At Velocamp Mallorca, we run laid-back, friendly cycling weeks with everything you need: amazing routes, on-road support, a bit of guidance when you want it, and loads of café stops when you don’t.
Hope to see you — and whatever groupset you're riding — out on the island.