Unbelievable Performance: e*thirteen HELIX R Cassette with 556% Gear Ratio!

Unbelievable Performance: e*thirteen HELIX R Cassette with 556% Gear Ratio!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Widest Cassette Range for 12-Speed Drivetrains
3. Compatibility with Shimano and SRAM Drivetrains
4. Design and Construction of the HELIX R Cassette
5. Comparison with Previous e*thirteen Cassettes
6. Weight and Compatibility Considerations
7. Installation Process
8. Performance and Shifting
9. Compatibility with SRAM and Shimano Drivetrains
10. Personal Experience and Recommendations

*The Widest Range Cassette for 12-Speed Drivetrains: The ethirteen HELIX R**

1. Introduction

Hey everyone, how's it going? Today, we're going to Delve into one of the first-world problems that many cyclists face – the range of our 12-speed drivetrains. While Shimano and SRAM have already introduced their 12-speed drivetrains boasting impressive ratios, there is another player in town that claims to offer an even wider cassette range. In this article, we will explore the e*thirteen HELIX R cassette – its features, compatibility, performance, and more. So, let's dive in and discover if this cassette lives up to the hype!

2. The Widest Cassette Range for 12-Speed Drivetrains

When it comes to cassette range, many of us want the largest possible range to conquer any terrain. While Shimano and SRAM offer impressive ranges of 510% and 520% respectively, they are not actually the widest available for 12-speed drivetrains. Enter the e*thirteen HELIX R cassette, boasting an impressive range of 556%. Yes, You heard that right – a whopping 556% range! But it's not just the range that makes this cassette stand out; it also offers something unique in terms of compatibility.

3. Compatibility with Shimano and SRAM Drivetrains

One of the biggest innovations of the ethirteen HELIX R cassette is its compatibility with both Shimano and SRAM 12-speed drivetrains. For cyclists like me who use a mix of Shimano and SRAM components, this cassette proves to be the perfect solution. By avoiding the patents of Shimano and SRAM, ethirteen has managed to Create a cassette that fits both systems seamlessly. This means that you no longer have to worry about compatibility issues when mixing components from different brands.

4. Design and Construction of the HELIX R Cassette

The e*thirteen HELIX R cassette is built following a similar design philosophy as top-tier cassettes from SRAM. Machined from a single piece of steel, it exhibits a premium-quality feel. In fact, the Attention to Detail is evident, with even the 9-tooth cog proudly showcasing the words "NINE TOOTH." Additionally, the cassette is available in two parts – the 9-36T steel cluster and the 42 and 52 cogs made of aluminum. This modular design ensures that you can easily replace worn-out parts without having to purchase the entire cassette.

5. Comparison with Previous e*thirteen Cassettes

The concept of a wide-range cassette is not new for ethirteen. In the days of 11-speed drivetrains, they introduced the 9-46 tooth TRS+ cassette, which utilized the XD driver – the only freehub accepting a 10-tooth cog at that time. With the HELIX R, ethirteen has taken this concept one step further by starting at 9 teeth. This innovation allows cyclists to benefit from an even wider range and optimize their gear ratios for various riding conditions.

6. Weight and Compatibility Considerations

While the ethirteen HELIX R cassette offers an impressive range, it is worth noting that it is not eBike compatible. This means that it is designed to be super light rather than withstand the demands of electric-assist systems. However, despite being lightweight, the cassette still manages to hold its ground when compared to other top-tier options in the market. The 12-speed HELIX R cassette, with its anodized aluminum cluster, weighs approximately 364 grams – slightly HEAVIER than the 345 grams specified by ethirteen but lighter than SRAM XX1 and XTR cassettes.

7. Installation Process

To install the e*thirteen HELIX R cassette, you will need an XD driver, which is the SRAM freehub for 11 and 12-speed drivetrains. The Package includes the necessary instructions, along with shims for XD-R road use. Following the instructions carefully, you will need to Apply grease to the freehub body and all contact points before tightening the cassette. The installation process is straightforward and can be completed using basic tools. However, it is recommended to torque the cassette to 3Nm for optimal performance.

8. Performance and Shifting

After installing the HELIX R cassette, it's time to put it to the test on the trails. When paired with a SRAM X01 drivetrain, the shifting performance is remarkably smooth and noticeably quieter compared to the previous cassette. The gear changes are quick and reliable, requiring only minor adjustments to the barrel when transitioning from the X01 cassette. Climbing steep inclines and shifting between larger cogs pose no issues, and the downshifts from the largest cog to the 9-tooth cog are seamless. The compatibility with SRAM drivetrains is exceptional, with a rating of 10 out of 10.

9. Compatibility with SRAM and Shimano Drivetrains

Next, let's explore the compatibility of the e*thirteen HELIX R cassette with Shimano drivetrains. When installed on a bike with a Shimano drivetrain, the shifting performance remains solid, although slightly noisier compared to the Shimano cassette. However, this does not affect shifting performance, and the cassette performs flawlessly even on steep uphills. With a 55 millimeter chainline, adjustments to the B-gap and barrel are required, but the overall performance is commendable. On up-shifts, the Hyperglide+ technology delivers smooth and reliable transitions, albeit slightly inferior to a pure Shimano setup. The gear steps on the HELIX R cassette are closer to SRAM than Shimano, offering wider jumps at the beginning of the cassette and identical ratios in the last three cogs (36-42-50T). This allows riders to optimize their gear ratios by pairing the cassette with an appropriate chainring size and take full AdVantage of its wide range.

10. Personal Experience and Recommendations

Having raced with the ethirteen HELIX R cassette on a variety of terrains, including rigorous courses requiring frequent shifts under load, the performance has been outstanding. When combined with a SRAM Eagle drivetrain, it delivers Flawless shifting. Mixed with a Shimano drivetrain, it achieves about 90% of the performance of a pure Shimano setup. Based on my experience, I highly recommend the ethirteen HELIX R cassette for its wide range, exceptional shifting, and compatibility with both SRAM and Shimano drivetrains. It is a versatile option that offers cyclists the opportunity to optimize their gear ratios and conquer any trail.

In conclusion, if you've ever considered mixing components from different brands, the HELIX R cassette is a game-changer. With its wider range, excellent shifting performance, and compatibility with SRAM and Shimano drivetrains, it offers cyclists the best of both worlds. So, whether you're a SRAM loyalist or a Shimano enthusiast, the e*thirteen HELIX R cassette is worth checking out!

FAQ:

Q: Is the e*thirteen HELIX R cassette compatible with eBikes? A: No, the HELIX R cassette is not designed for eBikes. It is built to be super light and is not intended to withstand the demands of electric-assist systems.

Q: Can I replace individual parts of the e*thirteen HELIX R cassette? A: Yes, the cassette is modular, allowing you to replace specific parts without purchasing the entire cassette. This flexibility makes it a cost-effective option in the long run.

Q: Is the e*thirteen HELIX R compatible with other 12-speed drivetrains? A: The HELIX R cassette is primarily designed for compatibility with SRAM and Shimano 12-speed drivetrains. However, it is always best to check the manufacturer's specifications and consult with a professional before making any modifications or replacements.

Q: Does the e*thirteen HELIX R cassette offer smooth shifting on steep inclines? A: Yes, the HELIX R cassette provides smooth and reliable shifting even on steep inclines. Its wide range and optimized gear ratios allow for seamless transitions between cogs, ensuring a hassle-free riding experience.

Q: How does the e*thirteen HELIX R cassette compare to other top-tier options in the market? A: The HELIX R cassette offers a competitive range, weight, and performance compared to other high-end cassettes. While it may differ slightly in terms of gear steps and noise levels, it provides an excellent alternative for cyclists seeking a wider range and compatibility with multiple drivetrain systems.