Originally Posted by
intence
IMO SRAM's biggest problem is not being able to differentiate their groups (Rival/Apex offer AMAZING value for weight).
I agree this is the case. I don't see any real benefit to Red over Rival other than bling and a slight weight reduction. In fact, 2012 Rival arguably works better than 2012 Red (cassettes, FD). Force seems a bit pointless as it offers no real performance advantage over Rival and lacks the bling and weight reduction of Red. Apex is probably the best choice of all of them as it's close to Rival, can handle a huge gearing range and is very affordable.
I'm sure SRAM knows all of this. I wonder how much of the new Red will trickle down. The new changes are pretty compelling to me.