Bike component manufacturer Campagnolo re-emerges, debuting the anticipated Groupset expected in 2023.
Cycling enthusiasts rejoice, Campagnolo's got some exciting news! It appears the Italian bicycle component manufacturer has taken a giant leap forward with the announcement of their new, 13-speed Super Record groupset. This long-awaited upgrade marks the first entry of a 13-speed cassette in the world of road cycling.
The move comes as a breath of fresh air for Campagnolo, who faced criticism for lagging behind competitors in the wireless groupset realm. SRAM had already launched their Red AXS groupset way back in 2019, while Shimano Di2, with its semi-wireless update in 2021, had been dominating the market with its reliable wired solution.
Despite Campagnolo's popular EPS electronic system, it was known to be more complex to install and live with than Di2. Enter, SR Wireless, their solution to this problem that debuted in 2023. Although it marked a significant step forward, the sheer size and weight of the front and rear mechs, coupled with a hefty price tag, made it a hard sell for many.
To make matters worse, Campagnolo followed up with a costly power meter that looked like it was stuck in a time warp. The full package, complete with high-end wheels and a frame, was almost a staggering £10k!
Thankfully, today's announcement shows Campagnolo is back on track! The new Super Record 13-speed groupset comes with a more competitive price tag, bringing it closer to the market average, and the weights are now on par with the competition. Plus, it hits all the right aesthetic notes for a high-end offering, boasting sleek design, improved ergonomics, and their typically excellent brakes.
Of course, we don't strictly need 13 speeds, and there may be a few tricky setup issues like with other Campagnolo products. But the question is, will the market take to it? Absolutely, say enthusiasts. With the extra ratio, an improved power meter, and potential trickle-down to more affordable options like Record and Chorus, it's hard to imagine cyclists resisting the allure of Campagnolo's latest innovation.
For us mortals on normal incomes, the excitement of the 13-speed upgrade should still pique our interest. After all, these improvements are likely to filter down to more affordable options in the future. And let's not forget about a potential gravel version sometime soon!
Campagnolo's strategic move towards common-sense pricing might just make the decision to go with them a more palatable one for many buyers. So here's to Campagnolo and their long-awaited 13-speed Super Record groupset – a game-changer in the world of road cycling!
Expanding the Horizon of Gear Options
Campagnolo's decision to introduce a 13th sprocket is primarily about offering closer gear ratios and a broader range of options for riders. The 13-speed cassette, combined with a double chainset, provides a unique combination that gives Campagnolo an edge in terms of customization and versatility.
This strategy also appeals to traditionalists by enabling the use of larger chainrings, which are often favored for their performance and durability. Although the addition of a cog theoretically increases weight, Campagnolo's design efforts aim to mitigate this effect through optimizations like skeletal-looking derailleurs.
Comparing Campagnolo, Shimano Di2, and SRAM Red AXS
Gear Choices and Compatibility
- Campagnolo Super Record 13: Offers a wide range of gearing options with a 13-speed cassette and several chainset combinations. The new cassettes are compatible with existing N3W freehub bodies.
- Shimano Di2: Offers a 12-speed cassette and is known for its consistent, reliable electronic shifting.
- SRAM Red AXS: Also features a 12-speed cassette and is renowned for its wireless shifting technology and wide-range gearing.
Performance and Efficiency
- Campagnolo Super Record 13: Claims to provide a faster, smoother shifting experience with a focus on efficient pedaling transitions.
- Shimano Di2: Praised for its precise, dependable electronic shifting across various conditions.
- SRAM Red AXS: Offers quick, precise shifting along with the flexibility to customize bike setup.
In summary, Campagnolo's Super Record 13 distinguishes itself with its 13-speed cassette and double chainset combination, offering unique gearing options and a focus on smoother cadence for efficient pedaling experiences. While Shimano Di2 and SRAM Red AXS are dependable choices for their respective electronic shifting and wide-range gearing capabilities, Campagnolo's innovative approach provides a fresh, versatile alternative for riders seeking customization in their drivetrain.
In the realm of both sports and finance, Campagnolo's announcement of their new 13-speed Super Record groupset signifies an exciting leap forward, especially considering the competitive landscape dominated by Shimano Di2 and SRAM Red AXS technology. This innovation seems to cater not only to professional cyclists but also to enthusiasts with a general interest in technology, offering closer gear ratios and versatility in terms of customization. As for cost-conscious consumers, the strategic move towardscommon-sense pricing is anticipated to make Campagnolo a more appealing choice.
