X7 is the only SRAM trigger shifter on test to sport an optical gear display. And because it is built into the handlebar clamp it is more robust and less intrusive than Shimano’s offering. The one-piece shifter/bar clamp lacks MatchMaker compatibility, but at least you can replace a cable without having to dismantle the shifter.

Even on this entry-level unit you can make five upshifts on the RH shifter in a single action, but seeing as the last one is a bit of a stretch it’s not really an advantage over Shimano’s four. Paddle positions on X7 are very similar to X9, making the shifter intuitive and easy to use, but
the downshift isn’t anything like as crisp as X9 and suffers from a slight delay, which could be due to lower grade cables.

Mbr rating: 8