Cyclocross - Rear Derailleurs!

Hey, so I'm building up a drivetrain for the first time (I've been riding single/fixed), and I really like the feel of SRAM over STI. What I'm working on now is figuring out what RD I want.

I'm split between a SRAM Rival or SRAM X.9 10 sp.

The X.9 is probably stronger, seeing as it's a MTB RD, but it doesn't have a built in barrel adjuster, which is kind of inconvenient, because I will be doing all my own work.

Any input?

since you are doing the work, just get a sram rival build kit. cheap and replaceable. Or even go Apex. its all good stuff.

go Rival definitely
Go Apex if you need a wide range cassette

I switched from Ultegra to Rival this year and will not go back. I would go with Rival and I'm not sure the MTB RD is compatible but they may have changed that.

I wonder, why do you guys suggest Rival over X.9?

I wonder, why do you guys suggest Rival over X.9?In general, you want the shortest cage that covers your gear range, but especially cross. The longer the cage, the more likely you'll snag a branch, course tape, etc. Short-cage works fine for a standard cross gearing (eg. 46/38 x 12-27).
http://images.jensonusa.com/large/rd/rd265a00.jpg
http://www.nexternal.com/icycles/images/26271.jpg

SRAM X.9 derailers are NOT compatible with their road shifters. Exact Actuation is not the same as 1:1. If you want to use a a MTB derailer (not recommended, they are not actually any more durable), you'll need to use a XX.

Thank you. That is the type of information that I really need, and I have decided on Rival. Thank you very much

go Rival definitely
Go Apex if you need a wide range cassette

Apex has an option of a mid-length cage which will accept up to a 32 tooth big rear cog. You do not 'have' to run a wide range cassette; however, it is an option. There is also the standard short cage Apex that is normal road bike sized which accepts a maximum of 28 teeth. The difference between this and the Rival rear derailler is very small.