Alberto Contador Switches to SRAM Apex for Wider Gearing in Giro

Alberto Contador traded his SRAM Red drivetrain for the lower-cost Apex on the 2026 Giro d’Italia, seeking a wider 11-32T gear spread to conquer the mountain stages.

Why did Contador choose Apex?

The move follows a trend among top teams-Saxo-Bank Sungard, Astana, and Garmin-Cervélo-all swapping to Apex for its broader cassette range. The 11-32T cassette gives Contador a smoother transition between gears, essential for steep climbs where a triple chainset would be too heavy. By dropping the Red rear derailleur, he saved roughly £237 per bike.

How does Apex differ from Red?

Apex pairs with a SRAM WiFLi cassette, delivering a larger spread than the Red’s standard 11-28T. The mid-cage derailleur on Apex handles the extended range, adding about 40 g to the bike but still lighter than a triple setup. The cost difference is stark: £63 for the Apex rear mech versus £300 for the Red version, a saving that adds up across a team’s roster.

What does this mean for Contador’s performance?

With a broader gear range, Contador can maintain optimal cadence on steep gradients without sacrificing speed on flats. The lighter, more affordable setup may also allow his team to allocate resources elsewhere, such as nutrition or support staff. While the weight gain is modest, the strategic advantage of smoother gear changes could be decisive in the high-altitude Dolomites.

• Apex offers an 11-32T cassette versus Red’s 11-28T.
• £63 cost for Apex rear mech, £300 for Red.
• Weight increase of 40 g with Apex.
• Teams adopting Apex: Saxo-Bank Sungard, Astana, Garmin-Cervélo.

Gear Comparison Table

What’s next for Contador?

The decision to run Apex will be tested on the upcoming mountain stages, where gear selection is critical. If the setup proves advantageous, more riders may follow suit, potentially reshaping equipment choices for the remainder of the Giro and beyond.