SRAM T-Type explained: The differences between mechanical and electronic Transmission

Since SRAM turned the world of MTB drivetrains upside down in 2023 with the launch of the first Eagle Transmission, the precise and robust wireless shifting systems have proven themselves and firmly established their place. Somewhat surprising, yet only logical, two mechanically shifted T-Type groups followed in 2025. Eagle 70 and Eagle 90 Transmission combine the revolutionary benefits of the Eagle Transmission system with the simplicity of a mechanical cable. Now the question arises: battery or cable – which is the better system for your bike?

We explain the differences and give you answers on where each SRAM drivetrain has the edge. To do so, we spoke with Anja Kallenbach about her experiences with both the mechanical and electronic SRAM Eagle Transmission groupsets. Anja is a passionate rider with over 20 years of MTB experience, working as a guide, riding technique coach, entrepreneur, and, on top of that, she was crowned Miss Germany in 2021. Which drivetrain she prefers, you’ll find out here.

The differences between mechanical and electronic Transmission

Durability & repair: a system built to last?

With Eagle Transmission, SRAM has introduced an extensive spare parts programme. When asked about it, Anja gets a bit enthusiastic: “It’s a big plus that with the new derailleurs you don’t always have to buy a completely new one. There are numerous spare parts, so you can easily swap things out.” This applies to both the electronic and the mechanical groups. Anja explains that there are different reasons for using this option: “Many do it because something is worn out – others for aesthetic reasons, for example if a scratch spoils the look. This way you can make the drivetrain look like new again in no time. I haven’t had to do it myself yet, so I can’t say more about the details – but I really like the fact that the option exists.”

She also points out the GX Eagle Transmission upgrade kit, which allows the mechanical derailleurs to be converted to electronic: “It’s a great entry point. Especially at a time when complete bikes can quickly blow the budget. I see more and more manufacturers equipping bikes with mechanical drivetrains to be more attractive in price. This way, SRAM or the rider who buys the bike keeps the option open to upgrade to AXS.”

Anja’s personal conclusion and our recommendation

After her hands-on comparison, Anja sums it up: “Since I spend a lot of time on the bike for work, I need my bike to function flawlessly at all times. Most of the time my partner and I take three bikes with us – and we make sure that they all have the same components wherever possible. If something breaks, one of the bikes can quickly serve as a donor for spare parts. That way we avoid downtime and don’t have to buy expensive parts in bike regions.”

“We decided on the AXS Transmission system – that’s also why I upgraded my drivetrain again. Consistency and reliability are simply top priority for us.”

If you don’t have a uniform fleet of bikes, here’s our recommendation for deciding between mechanical and electronic Transmission:

The mechanical Transmission is perfect for you if you:

• prefer the feel of a mechanical shift lever.
• don’t want to think about charging batteries.
• want to try Eagle Transmission first without paying the full price of an electronic version.

The electronic AXS Transmission is perfect for you if you:

• want to shift quickly and precisely at the press of a button.
• love the clean look without cables.
• have a passion for state-of-the-art technology.

Regardless of having spare-part donor bikes, Anja concludes: “Whether electronic or mechanical: I would always go for an Eagle Transmission. The only requirement is the right derailleur hanger. And at the end of the day, what really counts for me is: Let’s ride our bikes and have a great time!”

FAQ: SRAM Eagle Transmission

Can I upgrade my old bike to SRAM Eagle Transmission?

If your bike has a frame with UDH dropouts, you can upgrade it to Eagle Transmission. On frames with a classic derailleur hanger, mounting Full-Mount derailleurs such as the SRAM Transmission systems is not possible.

How long does the SRAM AXS Transmission battery last?

That depends on factors like ambient temperature, how often you shift, etc. SRAM states that an AXS battery lasts an average of 25 hours of riding. Tip: Remove the battery when transporting your bike by train or car so the system is not permanently in standby mode.

Do I need to use an app with the mechanical Eagle Transmission?

No, you don’t need an app for either the mechanical or the electronic Eagle Transmission. The SRAM AXS app can be useful during installation, for example to determine the correct chain length for your bike. You can also use a website for this. For AXS drivetrains, you’ll also need the app if you want to change button assignments or download firmware updates.

Are components compatible between mechanical and electronic Transmission?

Yes, all components marked “T-Type” are cross-compatible – cassettes, chains, chainrings and cranks from both the electronic and mechanical Eagle Transmission groups. Only the shifters and controllers must match the derailleur as either mechanical or electronic.