Upgraded my red wifli Etap Rd with this updated version, primarily for the fluid damper as I use it for gravel. I've only used it for a handful of miles, and this initial impression is relative to the RD it replaced. A few observations. Unlike the photos and the previous gen rd, this item does not come with a battery, a big negative for the price. It's also heavier than the old one by about 25%. The led light is brighter which makes it easier to see. It paired up with my shifters with no issues. The cage is slightly smaller to compensate for the larger pulleys providing about the same chain wrap. I use it with a 36t large cog and seems to be able to shift the wide range slightly better than the original rd, though not as well as either with a 32t. The upper pulley is concentric with the cage pivot rather than being offset which means the pulley gap to the sprockets is now independent of the cage angle which is a plus for a wide range 2x system. The shifting actuation appears slightly faster and so far feels slightly more precise, but more similar than not. The fluid damper works to significantly reduce chain slap and seems to be effective. The lower pulley uses narrow wide teeth which should help keep the chain inline. Time will tell if the cost is worth the upgrade, it's expensive but the features seem beneficial. Will review again after some time.
I needed some more gears as I mature as a cyclist and person. SRAM E Tap is fantastic. I have had it for more than 5 years and it has yet to miss a beat. Set up is almost idiot proof and very much one and done.
