CX1 RD + XT 11-42t

[ispy]

OK so I'm kinda new to SRAM's web of intricacies. I've googled and searched here but answers are somewhat confusing (to me) so I'm here to appeal for consolidated enlightenment:

1. Does SRAM CX1 medium-cage RD play nice with Shimano XT 11-42 cassette? SRAM officially says the medium cage maxes out at 36t cog, but I hear mentions of 42t working just fine, maybe shorten the chain by 1 link... SRAM also says there is no difference in the pulley cage length btwn medium vs long-cage CX1/Force 1 RD's, just how/where they are attached to the derailleur body.

2. Does the above RD work as 10- vs 11-speeds just by choice of brifters?

3. What's the difference in design that limits X9 Type 2 RD to 10spd vs CX1 RD to 11spd?

Thanks.

[eBAUMANN]

1) A CX1 rd should work with a 42t cassette on a 1x drivetrain, you MIGHT need a long cage rd but I am pretty sure you dont.
A friend just built a bike recently with a medium cage cx1 rd and 40t cassette with 42t ring in front. (https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/t31.0-8/12977274_1063004460439857_2768500439086630029_o.jp g)

2) A CX1 rd is compatible with either 10 or 11s shifters, yes.

3) An X9 type 2 (as well as XO, GX, and probably a few other models) is compatible with both 10 and 11s shifters.

All that said, CX1 rd's are pretty overpriced for what they are/weigh and the traditional "looped" rd housing they employ is actually a CON in my book for off-road use.

Go GX or X9.

[mtb_frk]

I was able to get a wifli rear (medium cage) working with a 11-42 cassette at least in the workstand. I had to adjust the b screw all the way out though. I didn't have enough chain links to make it work and didn't really need that much gearing so I switched to a 36 cassette.