If you’re shopping for a high-performance mountain bike drivetrain, SRAM’s new Eagle Transmission lineup has probably caught your attention. And for good reason — this system represents the biggest leap in MTB drivetrain design in years. Full-mount derailleurs, hanger-less interfaces, cassette-based setup, exceptional durability, and near-telepathic shifting under load make it unlike anything before.
But once you decide you want an Eagle Transmission drivetrain, a new question appears:
Should you choose SRAM GX Transmission or pay more for X0 Transmission?
Both share the same architecture. Both shift under full power. Both use the revolutionary hanger-less full-mount system. But they differ in materials, durability, weight, aesthetics, and long-term value — and those differences matter depending on your riding style and budget.
This guide breaks it all down so you can confidently choose the right transmission for your bike and riding style.
At a Glance: How GX and X0 Transmission Compare
| Feature | SRAM GX Transmission | SRAM X0 Transmission |
|---|---|---|
| Price | More affordable | Premium mid-tier (below XX/XX SL) |
| Materials | Steel + aluminum | More machined alloy + advanced coatings |
| Weight | Heavier | Noticeably lighter |
| Durability | Extremely durable | Even more durable, especially cassette + derailleur |
| Performance | 95% of X0’s performance | Slightly smoother, more refined shifting feel |
| Aesthetics | Solid but basic finishes | Premium machined look + better wear coatings |
| Who it’s for | Riders wanting Transmission at the best price | Riders prioritizing top-tier durability + weight savings |
What Both Transmission Groupsets Have in Common
Before diving into differences, it’s important to understand that GX and X0 share the same performance DNA.
They both get:
- Full-mount hanger-less derailleur attachment
Directly into the UDH interface = unmatched strength and alignment. - Shifting under full load
The system is designed to shift harder the more torque you apply. - Cassette-based setup
No B-tension, no limit screws, no fine tuning. - Same chain + architecture
Both use the Flat Top Eagle Transmission chain. - Same compatibility
You can mix-and-match almost all parts across the range.
Meaning: even the “budget” GX version is miles ahead of any mechanical drivetrain from the past decade.
Where SRAM GX and X0 Transmission Actually Differ
This is where the real decision is made. Let’s break it down piece by piece.
1. Derailleur: Materials, toughness, and rebuildability
GX Transmission Derailleur
- Steel inner cage + aluminum outer pieces
- Heavier but extremely tough
- Replaceable skid plates
- Less machining, more cast components
- Slightly louder during shifts
- Very good resistance to rock strikes
X0 Transmission Derailleur
- More CNC-machined alloy and hardened materials
- Lighter cage and hardware
- Better coatings reduce friction + wear
- Smoother, quieter shift feel
- Designed to take abuse but also feel premium
- Rebuild parts are more refined and longer-lasting
– Winner: X0, but GX is still outstanding for the price.
2. Cassette: Longevity and shift refinement
GX Transmission Cassette
- Mostly steel
- Slightly heavier
- Great longevity
- Shifting is crisp but not as “buttery” as X0
- Finish wears faster, especially on high-torque riders
X0 Transmission Cassette
- Mix of machined steel + aluminum
- More refined tooth shaping
- Stronger coatings = better long-term durability
- Noticeably quieter
- Lighter by a meaningful amount
– If you ride steep or technical terrain daily, X0’s cassette is worth the upgrade.
3. Chain: Coating and durability
Both chains are Flat Top Eagle chains — but not identical.
- GX Chain: Strong, basic coating, great for everyday riders
- X0 Chain: Harder surface treatment + corrosion resistance
– Differences aren’t huge, but X0 wears slower and stays quieter longer.
4. Crankset: A major separator
For many riders, this is the biggest deciding factor.
GX Cranks
- Heavier forged aluminum
- Tough and affordable
- Simpler finishes, fewer machining details
X0 Cranks
- CNC-machined aluminium with weight relief pockets
- Sleek aesthetic
- Stronger/stiffer for aggressive riders
- Lighter by 60–120g depending on configuration
– If weight matters, X0 is the clear winner.
5. Total Weight Difference
On average:
X0 Transmission saves 150–250 grams
(depending on exact build)
– This is meaningful for XC and trail riders, less so for enduro riders who prioritize toughness.
6. Real-World Shifting Performance
Here’s the truth:
Performance is extremely close.
You do feel:
- X0 is quieter
- X0 shifts a bit more cleanly under extreme torque
- GX feels slightly more “mechanical”
But both outperform any non-Transmission drivetrain on the market.
– If you blindfolded 10 riders, only 2–3 would reliably guess which drivetrain they were using.
7. Durability and Long-Term Value
GX is extremely durable, but X0 gets the edge because of:
- Better coatings
- Stronger materials
- Machined components that hold tolerances longer
If you ride:
- Bike parks
- Black/double black trails
- Wet, gritty environments
– X0 will simply last longer — particularly the cassette and derailleur.
If you ride:
- Flow trails
- All-around trail riding
- General recreation
– GX might be the better value.
8. Price Difference
SRAM pricing varies, but on average:
| System | Approx Price Range |
|---|---|
| GX Transmission | $1,099–$1,299 |
| X0 Transmission | $1,499–$1,799 |
About a $400–$500 premium for X0.
So… Which One Should You Buy?
The honest answer depends on what you value most.
Buy SRAM GX Transmission if…
- You want the full Transmission experience at the best price
- You don’t care about a bit of extra weight
- You ride trail or light enduro
- You prioritize value over prestige
- You’re upgrading from mechanical Eagle and want the cheapest entry point
GX is the “smart buy” drivetrain for 80% of riders.
Buy SRAM X0 Transmission if…
- You want the most durable long-term option
- You ride tech/enduro frequently
- You appreciate premium machining and aesthetics
- You want quieter, smoother power shifts
- Weight savings matter to you
- You keep bikes for many seasons and want better wear resistance
X0 is the sweet spot between affordability and elite performance.
Verdict: The Bottom Line
If Transmission shifting under extreme load is what you want, both drivetrains deliver it flawlessly. The core performance difference is small, but the feel, durability, and weight difference push X0 ahead for riders who want the best.
- GX Transmission = unmatched value + rugged performance
- X0 Transmission = refined, lighter, and longer-lasting
For most riders, GX is the smarter buy.
For performance-focused riders, X0 is well worth the extra money.
FAQ
Is X0 Transmission worth the upgrade over GX?
If durability, noise reduction, and weight matter, yes. If you only care about shifting performance, GX is already excellent.
Can you mix GX and X0 Transmission parts?
Yes. SRAM designed Eagle Transmission to be fully cross-compatible.
Does X0 last longer than GX?
Generally, yes — especially cassettes and derailleur cages due to better coatings and materials.
Is Transmission better than mechanical Eagle?
It’s a huge leap: setup, precision, shifting under load, and strength are all improved dramatically.
Can GX Transmission handle enduro riding?
Absolutely. It’s stronger than any previous generation drivetrain. X0 is just even tougher.
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Why Trust This Guide?
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