SunRace CS-RX1, 11-32T, Rear Cassette, Review

Rear Cassette

An important benefit of building your own bike is the freedom of choice; you can select components that meet your needs, fit your budget, and are compatible with other parts.

In this instance, I had the opportunity to choose between the original Shimano 105 (R7000) and the SunRace CS-RX1 rear cassette. Based on my past cycling experiences, I decided to stick with the familiar 11-32T (teeth) ratio; in Taiwan, some mountains are just too steep to tackle with a 28T sprocket.

Difference

The main difference between both cassettes are in the material and the finish.

1. Construction

The construction of both the Shimano R7000 and SunRace CS-RX1 are the same.

• The 3 sprockets on 1 spider (11-32) cogs are riveted on an alloy spider are the same on both Shimano and SunRace. While the Japanese use cheaper plastic spacers, the Taiwanese use spacers made of alloy. This design is used by all high end rear cassettes and makes them not only lighter (~30 grams) but should increase the overall stiffness.

• CS-RX1 features:

  -Super Fluid Drive technology for fast shifting

  -Light Weight Holes design

  -Red anodized spider

  -Red anodized spacer made of aluminium

  -Red anodized lockring made of 6061 aluminium

2. Finish

I'm not an expert in coatings, but when touched, SunRace's finish feels smoother than Shimano's. The Japanese brand's surface is like a very fine sandpaper, while the Taiwanese brand is smooth and shiny (see the photo). SunRace offers the spider in red; this anodized color appears more premium than the black one!

Decision

Choosing between the Shimano R7000 and the SunRace CS-RX1 rear cassette was easy. Both were available at the same price, so I went with the one featuring a smoother silver finish, complemented by the red anodized alloy spider, red spacers, and red lockring. Plus, the CS-RX1 has this 'cool' factor I couldn't resist.

SunRace Origin

The Taiwanese manufacturer was established in 1972, produced initially entry-level products for the North and South American market. I know, the Brits do not like it, but SunRace purchased the internal hub gear manufacturer Sturmey-Archer (established 1902) in 2000. Only after big investments in engineering, research and development the former British company did not only survive but excel.

Today, SunRace is a major player in the bike industry, they produce everything brake and gear related. They jumped on the 'bike packing' wagon in an early stage, capitalizing on the single front chainwheel (1 x) - large rear chainwheel trend.

Assembly & Riding

Installing the SunRace CS-RX1 on a standard Shimano-compatible rear hub was easy, quick, and trouble-free, as you'd expect from a standard-sized product. I didn't have to adjust my rear derailleur or cable; everything was plug & play.

On my first ride, I didn't notice any difference in riding or shifting compared to my original Shimano R7000 11-32 rear cassette on my other bike. Both provided the same reliability and smoothness when shifting up and down through all gears. Over time, I've assembled and disassembled the rear cassette multiple times with the proper tools on different hubs, they still shifts reliably without skipping gears. The anodized parts have endured the wear and still look great.

Since the SunRace cassette has a more appealing look and uses alloy spacers instead of plastic ones, I would not hesitate to buy them again. Additionally, I appreciate when smaller companies challenge the major players.

Shorts

• Plus

+attractive price

+finish/looks

+quality

+easy to assemble

+weight (311g factory spec)

• Minus

- non, so far

Ride carefully, Gerhard

#SunRace #CS-RX1 #Shimano #R7000 #11-32T #Sturmey-Archer #bikepacking

A Word of Caution

Always ride with a helmet and in a way that you are in control of the bike and not the other way around. Ride responsibly and defensively, be prepared for a worst-case scenario! It is senseless to gain some seconds but spends weeks to recover in a hospital and/or at home for a stupid action! You, your body, your parents, your family, and friends will surely appreciate your precautions before, during, and after a bike ride.