Open UP SRAM & Shimano Mixed 12 Speed Groupset Build

Open UP SRAM & Shimano Mixed 12 Speed Groupset Build

This Open U.P. build explores the real-world compatibility of SRAM AXS wireless shifters with Shimano’s 12-speed drivetrain. Featuring Carbon-Ti hubs and chainrings, Enve G23 rims, Lightning cranks, and a Cane Creek eeSilk+ seatpost, it balances road-speed gearing with gravel-ready low end. The result is a clean, functional, and truly versatile bike weighing just 15.81 lbs.

Whenever a new 12-speed groupset drops, we ask: can it mix? With Shimano and SRAM both producing 12-speed systems, we explored if hybrid compatibility could deliver better gearing for both road and gravel. The Open U.P. frameset gave us the perfect test platform.

We paired SRAM’s AXS wireless cockpit with Shimano’s precise rear shifting to achieve top-end speed *and* climbing prowess. The result? A clean, fully functional 15.81 lb build ready for everything from road sprints to backcountry climbs.

 

Open UP SRAM Shimano mixed build side profile SRAM cassette with Carbon-Ti hub

SRAM’s Force XPLR 10-36 cassette and Carbon-Ti 48/33t chainrings provide a wide, usable range—mimicking a 53/11 high gear with better-than-1:1 climbing. Everything is mounted to Carbon-Ti X-Hub Centerlock hubs in anodized green.

 

Carbon-Ti rotor with Shimano calipers SRAM Flattop chain with Shimano derailleur

Braking is handled by Dura-Ace R9200 calipers paired with Carbon-Ti 160/140mm rotors. The SRAM Red Flattop chain meshes seamlessly with the Shimano derailleur—proof that this hybrid drivetrain works flawlessly under pressure.

 

Lightning cranks with Carbon-Ti rings Flattop chain close-up

Lightning Carbon Road Cranks (165mm) and Carbon-Ti’s 12-speed compatible chainrings keep the drivetrain light and efficient. The Flattop chain adds stiffness, speed, and slick aesthetics.

 

Fair Wheel V2 bottle cage Cane Creek eeSilk+ seatpost

The Fair Wheel V2 carbon bottle cage weighs just ~20g and looks great in 3K Matte. For comfort, the Cane Creek eeSilk+ suspension seatpost adds 35mm of travel—customizable via elastomers.

 

MCFK stem and FSA AGX bar Carbon-Ti hub and Sapim CX-Ray spokes

Up front, the MCFK carbon stem and FSA K-Wing AGX handlebar offer ergonomic control. A full stack of Fair Wheel 3K spacers, Carbon-Ti top cap, and Cane Creek AER headset keep the front end sleek and precise.

 

Enve G23 and Gravel Kings Shimano Di2 levers with Lizard Skins tape

Enve G23 rims with Panaracer Gravel King SK 38c tires offer compliance and flat protection. We finished the build with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 shifters wrapped in Lizard Skins DSP tape for a refined feel.

 

Complete Open U.P. 12-speed SRAM Shimano build

 

This complete build weighs in at 15.81 lbs (7.17 kg).
 
Build List
  • OPEN U.P. Frame (Small)
  • Cane Creek AER headset
  • Carbon-Ti top cap + green bolt
  • Lightning Cranks 165mm
  • Carbon-Ti Rings 48/33t
  • Carbon-Ti Chainring Bolts
  • HSC Ceramic Bottom Bracket
  • Shimano Dura-Ace R9200 derailleur + calipers
  • SRAM RED Flattop chain
  • SRAM Force XPLR 10-36 cassette
  • Carbon-Ti Centerlock hubs
  • Enve G23 Gravel rims
  • Sapim CX-Ray spokes
  • Carbon-Ti thru-axles
  • Carbon-Ti rotors 140/160
  • FSA K-Wing AGX handlebar
  • MCFK Carbon Stem
  • Specialized S-Works Phenom saddle
  • Cane Creek eeSilk+ carbon suspension seatpost
  • Panaracer Gravel King SK tires 700c x 38mm
  • Fair Wheel Tubeless Valves
  • Fair Wheel V2 carbon bottle cages