New SRAM RED XPLR 1x13 — fine rapid “notchiness”/vibration and drivetrain noise, especially gears 8/9–13. Normal Flattop/XPLR behavior?
I recently purchased a brand-new Canyon Grail CFR AXS with SRAM RED XPLR 1x13. From my first ride, I noticed a mildly rough/notchy drivetrain feel (especially in gears 8/9-13) that seems unusual compared with other high-end bikes I've ridden--all of which have been Specialized mountain bikes. This is my first drop-bar bike for context.
The best way I can describe it is tiny, rapid micro-bumps or slight "notchy" texture, which produces a noticeable fine vibration through the pedals/crank. It's accompanied by a soft/subtle, rapid droning sound rather than actual grinding.
It's most noticeable in approximately gears 8/9–13 (harder/smaller cogs).
Two tests I've done:
- I tried the entire 1–23 MicroAdjust range. This affected shifting quality but did not materially change the roughness/noise.
- I removed the chain from the front chainring and rotated the crank independently. The crank then seemed smooth and the rough/notchy sensation disappeared.
My shop mentioned that SRAM Flattop road chains are naturally noisier than Eagle MTB chains. I understand some drivetrain noise/texture can be normal, but I'm unsure whether the tactile notchiness/vibration I'm feeling is normal for RED XPLR.
For those familiar with RED/Force XPLR 1x13: does this sound normal, particularly in the smaller cogs, or would you suspect a setup/component issue?