Szepter Core 3 SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS

The range breaks into three Core builds that share the same underlying carbon frame concept, with the biggest ride-defining differences coming from fork, shifting ecosystem, and whether you get a dropper. Core 4 is the full statement build with RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR and SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS, plus a Reverb AXS XPLR dropper. Core 3 keeps the Rudy fork but steps down to SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS and deletes the dropper, which will appeal to riders who want the fork’s comfort and control without adding another service item. Core 2 shifts the value focus further, using a SR Suntour GVX 32 fork and a Shimano 1x12 drivetrain with a wider-range 10-51 cassette, again without a dropper.

Across the SRAM builds, gearing is XPLR 10-44 with a 38T ring, which some riders find adequate for mixed terrain but may feel tall if your rides skew toward sustained steep trail climbs. Braking on the SRAM builds uses a larger front rotor than many gravel bikes, matching the bike’s rough-terrain intent. Stock wheels are alloy across the line; several reviewers point out that wheel weight is a noticeable limiter relative to how capable the frame and fork feel, making wheels a logical performance upgrade if you’re trying to sharpen acceleration without changing the bike’s core character.

Reviewers tend to describe the Szepter less as a fast-gravel specialist and more as a drop-bar trail bike that still covers distance. BikeRadar called it “a mountain biker’s gravel bike” and noted the fit felt “miles apart from most gravel bikes” on first acquaintance, before it made sense on singletrack (BikeRadar). That theme carries into Cyclist’s longer test, where the exaggerated numbers suggested “the nimbleness of a barge” but the bike instead felt “surprisingly light” in its handling (Cyclist Magazine). The same piece also sums up the ride character neatly: it “carries its bulk lightly” despite being heavy by gravel norms (Cyclist Magazine).

The short-travel suspension fork is repeatedly credited with changing how rough surfaces feel, especially washboards and chatter. MTBR went so far as to say the fork “far exceeds what its travel promises,” tying that to reduced fatigue over long, rough days (MTBR). On the other hand, reviewers are frank about tradeoffs: Granfondo found it “rather restrained on normal gravel roads” and that it “doesn’t really do fast starts or finish line sprints” (Granfondo).

Opinions split most clearly on the dropper and its small travel. Singletrackworld was “unconvinced” by both the limited drop and the ActiveRide “squish,” framing it as situational rather than universally useful (Singletrackworld).