YT Decoy Elite-Want to convert from Shimano XT to SRAM AXS

[Singletrackmind]

Waiting for my new Decoy to arrive and want to switch out the Shimano XT shifter, rear mech, cassette, chainring and only if necessary, the cranks. Has anyone had any experience with this or similar upgrades? Bike I'm pilfering from has SRAM AXS controller, cranks, chain and rear mech.

 

[luna87824]

I used XTR 12 speed chain and cassette with AXS shifter and rear derailleur with great results.

 

[Singletrackmind]

I used XTR 12 speed chain and cassette with AXS shifter and rear derailleur with great results.

Appreciate the input mate!

 

[YokoOno]

Yes. I converted to SRAM
1. You'll need a SRAM XD driver for the cassette
2. If it's a "shadow" Shimano RD, then you'll need a new RD hanger from YT
3. There is no need to replace the cranks or chainring
4. If chain is new, 12 spd shimano should work with 12 spd SRAM. If chain is worn or 11 spd then expect problems.

 

[Rob Rides EMTB]

Have both AXS and XT 12 speed on bikes and honestly wouldn’t do the AXS again. Personally prefer the feel and shift of XT 12 speed. Only thing that’s cool about AXS is wireless bling, nothing else about it is better than XT in my opinion.

 

[Al Boneta]

If you want electric shifting, I would go with Di2. When you hook it up to the Shimano motor you get much better shifting performance than AXS.
I run AXS currently and I am not a fan of 12-speed. If you blow on the derailleur or look at it funny the alignment gets thrown off and the shifting goes to shit.
Shimano 12-Speed has been a mixed bag. On an acoustic bike if you back pedal the chain drops a couple of gears on the cassette. The shifting also has a vague feeling to it.

 

[Singletrackmind]

Yes. I converted to SRAM
1. You'll need a SRAM XD driver for the cassette
2. If it's a "shadow" Shimano RD, then you'll need a new RD hanger from YT
3. There is no need to replace the cranks or chainring
4. If chain is new, 12 spd shimano should work with 12 spd SRAM. If chain is worn or 11 spd then expect problems.

Thanks for the input!

 

[Singletrackmind]

Have both AXS and XT 12 speed on bikes and honestly wouldn’t do the AXS again. Personally prefer the feel and shift of XT 12 speed. Only thing that’s cool about AXS is wireless bling, nothing else about it is better than XT in my opinion.

Appreciate your feedback Rob! Have 3 mtbs and wanted to have the same drivetrain set up to be consistent. Based on your input, will give the XT 12 speed a go before I make a decision. Been riding SRAM ever since they came out with the 1X and haven't riden any Shimano drivetrains on an mtb, just on my roadbike. Really enjoyed your review on the YT Decoy vs Levo. Happened to be at my lbs and they literally just finished assembling a new 2021 Levo S-Works, same red color you did a vid on. Pulled the trigger since YT didn't have any Decoy's in stock. Have an available from date of 11/11 on YT replied back to my inquiry stating they are still holding that date. Will post an update after I get some miles in on it!

 

[Singletrackmind]

If you want electric shifting, I would go with Di2. When you hook it up to the Shimano motor you get much better shifting performance than AXS.
I run AXS currently and I am not a fan of 12-speed. If you blow on the derailleur or look at it funny the alignment gets thrown off and the shifting goes to shit.
Shimano 12-Speed has been a mixed bag. On an acoustic bike if you back pedal the chain drops a couple of gears on the cassette. The shifting also has a vague feeling to it.

You make a good point. Since the bike I wanted to change to AXS will be my long travel emtb, not sure if I would utilize a 12 speed to its full advantage. My new Levo has the SRAM cassette with the latest 52 tooth cassette and I never get near it.

 

[wepn]

I think Captain Obvious will hopefully be my next title.

Captain Obvious with maximum lack of expertise because not sure though I think the Decoy is E8000 not EP8 and likely not compatible but:

[+] much like myself atm - fail.

SG-C7050-5D

Other than that Kindernay XIV thru axle

Products - Kindernay

 

[Zimmerframe]

I think Captain Obvious will hopefully be my next title.

Captain Obvious with maximum lack of expertise because not sure though I think the Decoy is E8000 not EP8 and likely not compatible but:

Can you put one on the front wheel and one on the back for 10 speed ? Is it wireless so you don't need a chain ?

 

[Singletrackmind]

Have both AXS and XT 12 speed on bikes and honestly wouldn’t do the AXS again. Personally prefer the feel and shift of XT 12 speed. Only thing that’s cool about AXS is wireless bling, nothing else about it is better than XT in my opinion.

Ended up taking your advice. Picked it up yesterday and finished assembling today. Shifts smooth as butter!