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Sram X-7 or X-9 shifter?

Murf

Chimp
Mar 28, 2008
8
0
I am getting new shifters. My question is do I need X-9's or will the X-7's do the job? I just ride XC and don't race. But I don't want the cheapest. Also do the new X-9's have gear indicators?
 

MTBracer

Monkey
Nov 19, 2007
192
0
Massachusetts
I've been wondering the same thing actually. Except I'll be using mine for some jumping too. But Definitely not DH or anything like that. If any monkies could share their opinions, it would be helping us both :cheers:
 

Murf

Chimp
Mar 28, 2008
8
0
I realy want the x-9 but I like having the indicator. I rode my buddys stumpjumper that had x-7's and they were butter smooth. He said he loves them and he is the local shop owner. I guess he could buy any one he wants but he has the X-7's
 

MTBracer

Monkey
Nov 19, 2007
192
0
Massachusetts
I don't really care if I have the indicator or not, as I'm pretty good with just feeling my gears. I go up or down as I think I need them not by the numbers. O, do you mean a number display or that little bar thing I've seen? As far as smoothness, I'm sure they'll both be awesome as long as they're set up right you know? What I'm wondering is if it's worth the cash to upgrade the x-9 or just get the cheaper x-7. Will the x-9 Perform better? Or is the X-9 just a lighter version of the X-7? If it's aesthetics that makes the difference between them, I'll take the cheaper one.
 

Sshields32

Monkey
Mar 7, 2008
113
0
Warwick, NY
I ride with x.9 shifters/derailleur on a bike that i use for everything and i really really love them. They both weigh about the same, according to pricepoint, so id say just go with the x.7
 

Monkeybidnezz

Turbo Monkey
Dec 16, 2003
1,212
0
Pac NW
I have both, and can say the 07 and up X9's are much better than the X7's. X9's took a big leap forward last year and are much closer to the X0's. If you can afford it, I highly suggest for the feel and precision of the shifts. The X9's can be had for like $69 if you look around.
 

MTBracer

Monkey
Nov 19, 2007
192
0
Massachusetts
I have both, and can say the 07 and up X9's are much better than the X7's. X9's took a big leap forward last year and are much closer to the X0's. If you can afford it, I highly suggest for the feel and precision of the shifts. The X9's can be had for like $69 if you look around.
This is what I've been looking for. :) Can anyone back him up? I'd like a few opinions please.
 

jacksonpt

Turbo Monkey
Jul 22, 2002
6,791
59
Vestal, NY
I can't compare the two, but I have found that my x9 triggers (from about 2004)... the actual trigger lever (the thing you push with your thumb) breaks rather easily.
 

markcm

Chimp
Oct 9, 2007
15
0
Galbraith
I have and use X7, x9 and XO. I use them for all mountian riding; lots of mud and plenty of crashing. All of them work great, I wouldn't hesistate to purchase any of these. I also have plenty of buddies riding the x7's; the ones that haven't been brute force busted are still shifting great after several seasons of hard use.

it seems like each new year, each model picks up characteristics of the higher model from the year before.

I'd guess you would be satisfied with a set of x7, if you have the extra money go for the x9 and call it retail therapy. I got my last set from the LBS for dirt cheap as a new take off.
 

JRogers

talks too much
Mar 19, 2002
3,785
1
Claremont, CA
I can't compare the two, but I have found that my x9 triggers (from about 2004)... the actual trigger lever (the thing you push with your thumb) breaks rather easily.
Isn't that part made of aluminum? I had a set of X.9s from around then and the large lever was metal. I did bend it once, though.

I have a set of X.7s now and they are fine. The newer X.9s are certainly nicer (much like X.0 as others have mentioned) and a step up in performance. I'd get those if the price difference isn't too much...but I doubt you'd be unhappy with the X.7s; they are a good deal, just not quite as nice.
 

moff_quigley

Why don't you have a seat over there?
Jan 27, 2005
4,402
2
Poseurville
I used to run the older X.9 stuff which is now the newer X.7 stuff. Current setup is the new style X.9 right trigger, RD, FD, and an X.0 twister for the front. The newer X.9 pwns the older X.9, IMHO. Old stuff wasn't bad...it was on par with the XT it replaced, but the newer stuff is that much better.

BTW, I don't miss the gear indicators if that helps at all...
 
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ultraNoob

Yoshinoya Destroyer
Jan 20, 2007
4,504
1
Hills of Paradise
The 2008 X7's have the older X9 internals. Bascially, they took the X9 and slapped an X7 top cover on it. If you're looking for quick dependable shifting at a great price, get the 2008 X7's.

Beyond Bikes (yah, yah, I know, but keep your BB gripes in the designated thread please) had a full set for $65 not too long ago. I know Jenson has them too.
 

Streamline

Spammer Extraordinaire
Jul 9, 2007
333
0
I roll with X.9's and love them, they are made of aluminum and much more durable than the X.7's that came on my DH bike. Also the X.7's didn't click the same when shifting which was the main reason I changed over to X.9's on that bike as well. I think it is Jenson that you can get the rear D and shifters for 130ish.
Personally I would go with X.9, they shift smoother and are more durable. Then again you will get spoiled which is dangerous. lol
 

nmr8

Monkey
Apr 6, 2007
108
0
i like the x9s, they have a nicer feeling action. with full housing, they're buttery.
 

aphex2k

Chimp
Sep 7, 2008
19
0
X9's are a lot more solid shifting than x7.

Always see new bikes with the blingiest rear mech and poor shifters. x9 rear mech and x7 shifters. Personally, I'd do it the other way round, but bike manufacturers seem to think that having a pricey rear mech sells bikes better.