Less friction in your SRAM derailleur: CyclingCeramic's oversized pulley cages arrive for MTB and gravel

Have you already been over every inch of your bike and wonder where you could squeeze out a bit more efficiency without changing frame or wheels? An oversized pulley cage for your SRAM derailleur is one of those upgrades that gets talked about a lot in workshops. CyclingCeramic has just added three new Off-Road OSPW cages designed for SRAM 12- and 13-speed mountain and gravel derailleurs, according to Bikerumor, which has already tested them.

The brand's goal is clear: reduce drivetrain friction. Until now this kind of part was mostly seen on the road, so it's good news if you ride on dirt.

What an oversized SRAM pulley cage is and why it reduces friction

OSPW stands for oversized pulley wheel system. The idea is to replace the original cage of the rear derailleur with one with larger jockey wheels. With bigger pulleys, the chain bends less as it passes through them, and that means less friction with every pedal stroke.

Don't expect to feel a rocket under your legs: these are small gains that mainly interest people who race or who enjoy fine-tuning every detail of their machine. Even so, for many riders it's an upgrade that makes sense once the rest of the bike is dialled.

Three versions for MTB and gravel with SRAM

What's new is that CyclingCeramic takes the concept off-road with three different cages, all for SRAM 12- and 13-speed mountain and gravel derailleurs. Having several versions means each one is designed to fit certain derailleur models, so check carefully which one matches yours.

For the full details on compatibility, materials and the test verdict, it's best to read the source's complete review and the brand's official information, because here we only tell you what has been published.

What to check before fitting one to your bike

If you're curious, bear these points in mind before taking the plunge:

• Exact compatibility: confirm your SRAM derailleur model and its number of speeds. Not every cage fits every derailleur.
• Clearance from the ground and the frame: on MTB and gravel the cage is exposed to rocks and branches, so check the space available.
• Maintenance: mud and dust punish the pulley bearings. Regular cleaning and greasing are part of the deal.
• State of the drivetrain: a worn chain or worn chainrings eat up any upgrade. Start there.
• Adjustment: after fitting it, check the chain tension and the derailleur adjustment, or drop by your trusted workshop.

If you're looking for parts for your drivetrain, have a look at the listings for second-hand bike components: cages and pulleys like these sometimes turn up at a good price.

And if you're buying or selling a bike with this extra

An oversized pulley cage is a detail that says a lot about how well a bike has been looked after. If you're looking at second-hand mountain bikes or a second-hand gravel bike that has one, ask whether the original cage is included and how many kilometres the pulleys have done.

And if you're the one selling, mention it in the listing and, if you've kept it, offer the stock part too: it's a plus that people who know what they're after appreciate. Is your bike ready for a new owner? Post your listing for free on bicis.net and let it keep clocking up the kilometres.