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Mont Ventoux
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On Test: SRAM Rival, January 15, 2009

SRAM's revamped Rival group makes it an even better value
Photo ©: James Huang
(Click for larger image)
The levers receive the most complete makeover
Photo ©: James Huang
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The new Rival levers get longer brake lever blades
Photo ©: James Huang
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The brake levers are easily adjustable for reach
Photo ©: James Huang
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As with Red, the shift paddle is independently adjustable as well
Photo ©: James Huang
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Rival also steps up to dual shift cable routing
Photo ©: James Huang
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The rear derailleur is unchanged for 2009
Photo ©: James Huang
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The cassette is carried over
Photo ©: James Huang
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The front derailleur is a carryover unit as well
Photo ©: James Huang
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SRAM previously offered the hollow-forged Rival crankset as an optional upgrade
Photo ©: James Huang
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It's just three little letters
Photo ©: James Huang
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SRAM has also removed a lot of material from the back of the spider
Photo ©: James Huang
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Chainrings are unchanged but still work well
Photo ©: James Huang
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Not surprisingly, the new Rival also makes do
Photo ©: James Huang
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Save for the new finish, nothing has changed on the brake calipers…
Photo ©: James Huang
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…but the pad holders get a subtle yet significant update:
Photo ©: James Huang
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