Home › The Lost Co Blog › SRAM AXS Rocker Paddle Upgrade | Rider Review SRAM AXS Rocker Paddle Upgrade | Rider Review by Nick Hanson February 08, 2021 In stark contrast from the minimum $1,000 USD price tag to enter the SRAM Eagle AXS world, here lies a $20 upgrade. The improved rocker paddle for the AXS controller. It’s a simple solution to a problem no one thought they had. Well, some felt the original design wasn’t quite 100%. I actually wasn’t sure I would appreciate the new layout, but it was $20 well spent. Features Available as a complete controller or standalone paddle option for all Eagle AXS controllers Increased ergonomics similar to an analog shifter Included With The SRAM AXS Upgrade Inside the small, unassuming box, you receive 3 parts. The paddle itself, a new spring and new bolt for installation. You’ll quickly realize that any right minded individual with a 3D printer can create one of their own. Should one of SRAM’s first two designs fall short in your eyes. Installation was simple, you remove the exact same pieces you receive new. So you can swap back and forth when you feel like it. Or sell off the design that didn’t agree with you. I didn’t weigh each paddle, but any difference would be negligible. Pros, Cons and Verdict $20 well spent, yes indeed. The original design forced you to “rock” your thumb up and down for traditional shifts. Or introduce your index finger to the party for forward shifts. (See my original review of the AXS upgrade kit for more details on the shifting options: https://thelostco.com/blogs/blog/sram-axs-eagle-upgrade-kit-review) A pro to this new design is that you now have two distinct levels for your thumb to operate, like a shifter of yesteryear. While still having the option to rock your thumb, and also still calling on your index finger for designated driver. A con however is the relaxed tolerance on the fit. The original paddle was tight fitting, and didn’t rattle. If you rest your thumb or finger on the new paddle while riding, it will make a noise as it moves in place side to side. Minor annoyance, but it’s there. Again, I didn’t think this new paddle would matter to me, but it did. I feel more comfortable making shifts, and my mind doesn’t struggle with the thought of moving my thumb in a way that’s not natural. The larger surface area makes shifting more purposeful, and takes accidental shifts out of the equation. Instead of buying a few coffees this week, buy the SRAM AXS Rocker Upgrade instead. Featured Products Sold out Got questions? Feel free to shoot us an email or give us a call! 360-306-8827 sales@thelostco.com ABOUT THE RIDER/WRITER NAME AGE HEIGHT LOCATED Nick Hanson 31 5'11" Boulder, CO Current Bikes: 2019 Yeti SB150, also seeking an additional short travel companion. Bike Size: Large Favorite Trails: Hall Ranch, Trestle Bike Park, Free Lunch, Hangover Trail About Me: Been riding bikes my whole life. But feel I've only been a true Mountain Biker since 2012. Currently trying to take my bike wherever I can ride in conjunction with car road trips. Engaged, and living in Boulder with our 2 dogs. Share Share on Facebook Tweet Tweet on Twitter Pin it Pin on Pinterest