Blackwater and Marginal Gain Unveil 'Orient' Drivetrain to Fix 1x Chainline

Key points

• The 'Orient' drivetrain concept was showcased at the CRAFTED Bike Show in Cane Creek, built in collaboration between Blackwater Bicycles and Marginal Gain of Colorado.
• The system aims to improve chainline by keeping the chain straighter across more of the cassette, reducing the severe angles typical in wide-range 1x drivetrains that cause friction and wear.
• According to Marginal Gain, the concept could support 15- or 16-speed setups while maintaining reasonable chain angles, a significant improvement over current 1x systems.
• The prototype was tested on a Blackwater Splitfire and is designed to fit standard SRAM XPLR cranks with a 150mm Q-factor, requiring no special bottom bracket or frame modifications.
• Billy Hudgens of Blackwater noted the prototype is 125-200 grams heavier than a standard 1x chainring, but future iterations aim to reduce this weight.
• Hudgens stated that the straighter chainline should keep the chain cleaner than current 1x systems, as extreme angles in traditional setups pry links open, allowing dirt to enter and get trapped.

Background

This development follows a period of stagnation in 1x drivetrain innovation, where most progress has focused on adding cogs or improving derailleur electronics rather than addressing fundamental chainline issues. The 'Orient' concept represents a shift in thinking, questioning whether the chainline itself is the primary source of inefficiency in modern 1x systems. This aligns with broader industry trends where small builders and component makers are exploring unconventional solutions to improve performance and reliability in off-road and cyclocross environments.

Why it matters

The 'Orient' drivetrain could address a long-standing issue in 1x systems: the compromise in chainline that leads to increased friction, wear, and inefficiency. By keeping the chain straighter across the cassette, the system may offer better performance and durability, particularly in muddy and off-road conditions. The potential for 15- or 16-speed setups with reasonable chain angles could also expand the range and usability of 1x systems, making them more versatile for a wider range of riders and disciplines.

What to watch

Blackwater and Marginal Gain are expected to release more videos and reviews of the 'Orient' drivetrain in the coming months. They are also testing the wear on the 'shift points' and may use different materials or replaceable parts if wear is excessive. Additionally, Blackwater is developing a 2x prototype that works with 1x rear derailleurs, which could offer a new approach to shifting and chain retention.