SRAM TT Shifters
When SRAM was developing their new Red groupset, Design Integrity (DI) in Chicago was brought on board to assist with the engineering design of a new set of SRAM time trial shifters from concept to production launch. DI is one of the few product development consultancies in the Chicago area that focuses on innovation and new product development projects with a high level of technical complexity.
Challenge
Prior to 2007, SRAM established a strong position in the mountain and hybrid bike markets, but their new road component line was just beginning to gain a foothold in the category. Without a specialized shifter for time trial bikes, their new road package could not be utilized in three important stages in the Tour de France, which was just 11 months away.
Solution
The project started as a reverse engineering effort, but it transformed into a product improvement project as the team found ways to improve the feel, reliability, and cost. The first-ever carbon fiber lever was utilized to reduce overall weight. Special focus was given to the detents to meet the needs of riders, who require a solid and responsive feel from the shifting mechanism.
Client Benefit
The new TT shifters allowed SRAM to debut their road component package on time trial bikes in the 2007 Tour de France. The solid feel of the shifting action combined with the carbon technology drew “best in market” reviews from cycling magazines and demanding athletes.
Contact Us Today
Reach out to start a new project or talk with our professional staff.