SRAM

X-Sync 2 Eagle 12-Speed Direct Mount Oval Chainring

There's a segment of the off-road population that insists on 26in wheels, single-pivot suspension, and a double drivetrain. The SRAM X-Sync 2 Eagle 12-Speed Direct Mount Oval Chainring is anathema to them. It's not only built for a 12-speed one-by drivetrain, but it's also got an odd shape that reduces dead space and evens power output across the pedal stroke, which in turn increases traction and pedaling efficiency. As with its round counterpart, the off-round ring features teeth that are CNC-machined to support the chain's inner- and outer-link widths, providing a variable thickness from tooth to tooth so the chain and chainring effectively lock together as you pedal while also clearing mud and other debris.

It also features the updated X-Sync 2 tooth profile. Where the original X-Sync teeth took on a boxy shape, X-Sync 2 is narrower to accommodate the 12-speed Eagle chain and features teeth that more closely resemble those of a shark. Boasting aggressive profiling, these teeth hold the chain securely in place like a shark's tooth digging into something. The key difference being, of course, that the Eagle chain is designed to accommodate the ring's teeth, while chances are good that a real shark's teeth will cause some pretty—err—dire compatibility issues with whatever they happen to get a hold of.

The benefits of this new profile aren't just limited to its chain retention ability or providing an opportunity for us to write gratuitously about sharks. It mimics the wear profile seen in the original X-Sync teeth for increased durability, and it also features edge shaping to help prevent chain suck over time. The direct-mount interface makes swapping rings a breeze, giving quick flexibility to adapt to different shapes of terrain.