996

Hi Guys,

Looking to build up a Surly Cross Check and am having thoughts about which group set (mainly derailleur and shifters) to use for the build as I'll most likely be using SRAM NX MTB cranks.

Has anyone had experience with either group set? I've seen a video or two of people showing the mud build up in an APEX 1 derailleur, but have also heard good things. Any input will be greatly appreciated. Just want something reliable and heavy duty.

Thanks!

gus6464

Apex is bushings on the RD vs bearings. While it's not the like the absolute trash that is SRAM NX, Rival is better build quality.

996

Got it. Thanks for the reply. So you'd recommend going for a Rival RD I'm assuming.

Also... Did you mean the NX has a terrible RD? Or the crankset is bad..? Would you recommend other cranks? I feel like I can use any SRAM crank for the build. Looking for a 1x setup.

Thanks again.

MAGAIVER

I'd go for Shimano GRX, Shimano's stuff is simply better imo and you can add a Deore, SLX or XT crank if you need a mountain bike crank.

SilverRubicon

That only works if he's building a bike next year.

redlude97

He could use an RX setup right now with equipment already available. For 1x I actually prefer the SRAM system though

gus6464

Yeah NX is crap. The derailleur is made of cheese. You do not need another crank. I would go with Rival 1 long cage and use the Shimano XT 11-42 cassette. The cassette for Apex is the NX 11-42 which is an anvil and crap. The XT cassette will also quiet down the shifts.

SilverRubicon

Wow, there are components available now. That was quick.

redlude97

They've been available for over a year, the rx clutches were a seperate release from the GRX lineup

996

Thanks all for the replies. I think I'll stick with Rival for the RD, an NX crankset with a GXP BB and most probably a Shimano XT cassette.

So the Rival derailleur will work with the 10-42 Shimano cassette?

redlude97

Shimano does not make a 10-42 cassette, and you would need an XD driver for it. If you are thinking of the 11-42 cassette, yes with the long cage Rival

996

This is what I meant! Thanks.