Why would you buy the SRAM Force over the Red? Force is specifically built to offer the most value for the money in their road components. While it’s true it’s not sporting the latest technology the difference between Red and Force is often in the eye of the beholder.

The SRAM Force GXP Crankset is made of a unidirectional carbon spider and arm construction that is both lightweight and stiff, translating into optimal power transfer. While the Red crankset this year picked up the Campy crank arm/chainring bolt design, the Force crank retains the more traditional 5 spider arm design.

The PowerGlide chainrings have been CNC machined from 7075-T6 alloy plate and finished with a Hard-Anodized coating that helps keep the drivetrain quiet. The CNC machine has shaped the tooth profiles into strong and durable designs. – resulting in longer life.

GXP Stands for Gig X Pipe and it is an external bottom bracket bearing assembly system. The GXP system puts the left side bearing between the spindle and the left crankarm, while allowing the drive side bearing to float on the spindle. This is a better option than side loading the bearings, which can cause premature bearing wear. The GXP system uses two bicycle specific cartridge bearings and 8 seals for a smooth and durable ride.

It comes in 170, 172.5, or 175mm arm lengths and a standard (53/39) or compact (50/34) crankset. It weighs 791 grams, and does not include a bottom bracket. Sold as a set.