SRAM RED XG‑1290 E1 Cassette (10-28T, 10-30T, 10-33T, 10-36T options)
The SRAM RED XG‑1290 E1 cassette represents the pinnacle of road bike gearing, combining ultra‑lightweight construction, precise electronic shifting, and a wide range of gearing options tailored to modern racing and all‑road riding. Designed specifically to complement SRAM RED AXS electronic drivetrains, this cassette delivers fast, smooth shifts while keeping riders perfectly positioned in the right gear when it matters most.
The RED XG‑1290 cassette is commonly fitted during high‑end road bike builds, drivetrain upgrades, and professional bicycle servicing.
Wide Gear Range with Refined Progression
The RED XG‑1290 E1 cassette eliminates the need to choose between tight gear steps and wide range—you get both. SRAM carefully engineered tooth profiles and spacing to maintain smooth cadence control while offering gearing options for steep climbs, rolling terrain, and high‑speed racing.
Cassette options include:
- 10–28T for traditional road racing
- 10–30T for versatile performance builds
- 10–33T for endurance and hilly routes
- 10–36T for modern all‑road and climbing‑focused setups
For the first time, 10–30T and 10–36T options are available at the RED level, giving riders more flexibility when configuring a race or endurance machine.
Optimised for Electronic SRAM AXS Shifting
Every cog on the RED XG‑1290 E1 cassette features secure, precisely shaped shift ramps designed exclusively for electronic shifting. This ensures quick, reliable gear changes even under heavy load, whether sprinting, climbing out of the saddle, or making fine cadence adjustments in a fast group.
On the 10–28T, 10–30T, and 10–33T versions, at least five consecutive one‑tooth jumps provide exceptionally smooth transitions between gears, helping riders maintain rhythm and efficiency.
Ultra‑Light X‑DOME One‑Piece Construction
The cassette uses SRAM’s signature X‑DOME design, machined from a single block of hardened steel. This one‑piece construction delivers:
- Exceptional strength and durability
- Reduced weight compared to multi‑piece designs
- Consistent shifting accuracy over long service life
The result is one of the lightest and most durable road cassettes available, ideal for elite racing and high‑performance endurance riding.
10‑Tooth Start for Expanded Gear Range
Featuring a 10‑tooth smallest sprocket, the RED XG‑1290 cassette expands overall range without requiring oversized chainrings. This allows riders to maintain high top‑end speed while still benefiting from low climbing gears—especially valuable on Queensland’s varied road profiles.
The cassette requires an XDR driver body, standard across modern SRAM road hub systems.
Ideal for Professional Bike Builds and Servicing
The RED XG‑1290 cassette is frequently specified during:
- SRAM RED AXS drivetrain upgrades
- Lightweight race bike builds
- Endurance and gran fondo setup optimisation
- Professional bike fitting and gearing selection
Brisbane bicycle service centres value its durability, low weight, and flawless integration with SRAM AXS components.
Technical Specifications
- Product: SRAM RED XG‑1290 E1 Cassette
- Model ID: CS‑XG‑1290‑E1
- Speeds: 12‑speed road
- Cassette Options: 10–28T, 10–30T, 10–33T, 10–36T
- Driver Body: XDR
- Construction: One‑piece machined steel X‑DOME
- Shifting: Optimised for electronic SRAM AXS drivetrains
Ideal Riding Applications
- Road racing and criteriums
- Endurance and gran fondo riding
- Hilly and mountainous routes
- All‑road performance builds
- Riders demanding lightweight, precise gearing