Decoding the Rise of SRAM in OEM Component Choices

Let’s face it. SRAM is everywhere now, like that annoying guy who shows up at every party uninvited and ends up eating all the chips.

But somehow, it’s making the scene work. Shimano fans are feeling a little left behind, though – they’re clutching their pedals and screaming, “Why? Why is everyone switching to SRAM?”

Well, pull up a chair. It’s time to break it down, raw and gritty, like a late-night dive bar conversation.

1. SRAM Owns the Game, End of Story

You’ve heard the phrase “one-stop shop,” right? SRAM lives it. The brand’s dominance in OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) setups comes down to one thing: complete integration.

They provide everything from drivetrains and brakes to suspension and dropper posts. If you’re a manufacturer looking to cut costs and streamline your supply chain, why not go for a brand that offers everything under one roof?

Component Category	SRAM Offering	Shimano Offering
Drivetrain	Eagle, NX, GX, XX1	Deore, XT, XTR
Brakes	Code, Guide, Level	XT, XTR, SLX
Suspension	RockShox	Fox, DVO
Dropper Post	RockShox Reverb	KS Lev, Fox Transfer

Manufacturers love SRAM’s comprehensive range because, let’s face it, it’s a hell of a lot easier than juggling a bunch of suppliers.

2. The Supply Chain Game – COVID Edition

When the world went into lockdown, everything got scrambled like a bad omelet.

But SRAM? They saw the opportunity and seized it.

While Shimano, still stuck in the chaos of supply chain disruptions, was playing catch-up, SRAM came out the winner.

They ramped up production and distribution while Shimano was struggling to get their parts off the boat.

And when bike companies needed fast, reliable stock to meet skyrocketing demand?

SRAM was already there.

3. The Price Break – Follow the Money

The financial incentives are hard to ignore. SRAM is known to give significant discounts to manufacturers who commit to large orders.

If you’re a company trying to get the best deal while still building a solid bike, why not go with the cheapest option that still gives you decent performance?

Shimano can be pricey, especially at lower tier models, but SRAM’s NX and SX groupsets offer surprisingly good performance without burning a hole in your wallet.

4. The “SRAM Just Works” Mentality

It’s funny how everyone loves to talk about Shimano’s legendary “just works” philosophy.

Yeah, sure, Shimano stuff works.

But SRAM? It’s the type of gear that leaves you wondering how they did it.

They’ve made a name for themselves by offering precision, low-maintenance systems that don’t flinch under pressure.

Combine that with their modern AXS electronic groupsets, and you’ve got something that hits a sweet spot for performance and simplicity.

5. Pedal to the Metal with Innovation

You can’t ignore SRAM’s constant push for innovation. They’ve been relentless in pushing the boundaries with things like their wireless AXS shifting system.

For enthusiasts and manufacturers alike, the seamless integration and cutting-edge tech make SRAM an enticing option.

Shimano’s electronic components are no slouches, but SRAM’s clean, wire-free setups are giving them a serious run for their money.

Feature	SRAM AXS	Shimano Di2
Wireless	Yes	No
Battery Life	20+ hours	15-20 hours
Customization	Highly flexible	Less flexible

The ease of use, the lack of cables cluttering the frame, and the “no wires, no worries” approach? SRAM’s taking the future by storm.

6. Focus on Mountain Biking

Let’s be real. SRAM has more balls in the mountain biking game.

They’ve dedicated a lot of effort and innovation into perfecting MTB-specific components.

From the reliable GX and Eagle drivetrains to the beefed-up Code and Guide brakes, SRAM has tailored their products to meet the rough demands of MTB riding.

Shimano, on the other hand, is still trying to catch up, especially when it comes to entry-level mountain bike builds.

7. SRAM’s Growing Dominance in Higher-End Builds

While Shimano’s presence is still strong in road cycling, SRAM’s clout in mountain biking is undeniable.

Brands like Yeti, Santa Cruz, and Trek are pushing SRAM to the forefront of their higher-end builds.

The problem with Shimano is they don’t offer the full package for the mountain bike enthusiast.

No suspension, no dropper posts—just a drivetrain and some decent brakes.

SRAM, meanwhile, is locking down the market with full-service solutions, making it harder for companies to turn them down.

The Bottom Line – It’s All About Simplicity and Convenience

SRAM has managed to capitalize on a blend of factors: better supply chain reliability, comprehensive product offerings, and competitive pricing.

Add to that their aggressive innovations and it’s no surprise that bike companies are flocking to SRAM for their builds.

Shimano may have a more loyal following, but loyalty doesn’t always pay the bills.

In the end, bike manufacturers are going to make the call that makes the most financial sense.