pignons de dérailleur de vélo image by Cyril PAPOT from
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What To Look For
Campagnolo and Shimano offer high-end road groups. In 2010, Campagnolo introduced Super Record 11 and Shimano revealed Dura-Ace Di2. By Campagnolo moving into 11 cogs on a wheel and Shimano using electricity and motors to shift, these companies have each taken on separate paths of technological advancement. Selection of high-end components depends on riding preferences, weight and cost. Di2 is the most expensive at more than $4,800 compared with Super Record 11 at just more than $3,000. Super Record 11 is lighter, but Di2 eliminates cables and the need to trim.
Common Pitfalls
Shimano and Campagnolo have brake levers that also function as shifters. The shifters are the most complicated component on road bicycles and are made up of many small parts. Campagnolo offers these small parts for sale and have designed the shifters to be serviced. Shimanos shifters cannot be serviced. Campagnolo is not as widely available as Shimano and its lower-end groups like Chorus and Athena cost more than their Shimano counterparts.
Where To Buy
High-end groups such as Super Record 11 and Di2 perform their best when installed by trained technicians. Find a bicycle shop that sells and repairs high-end race bikes and talk about what's right for your budget, riding style and bike. Buying parts from Internet retailers may be less expensive, but a shop familiar with the groups will get the right components and install them correctly. A bike shop may also offer a package deal for future adjustment or service.
Cost
Outfitting your bike with Campagnolo Super Record 11 can cost more than $3,000 depending on the installation cost and component selection. Shimano's Dura-Ace Di2 could set you back more than $4,800 depending upon installation costs and component selection. Dura-Ace also has a traditional cable system available for around $2,600. Dura-Ace groups come with a three-year factory warranty in case of malfunctions. Campagnolo provides warranties for a period of three or four years.
Comparison Shopping
SRAM also designs and manufactures high-end road bike component groups. Some professional racers prefer the performance of SRAM Red over Dura-Ace and Super Record. Red is also very close in weight and costs significantly less than Dura-Ace and Super Record 11 groups, giving it a strong advantage in the marketplace.
Insider Tips
Chances are you'll be spending hours sitting in the cockpit of your bike. It's important to choose a system that matches your riding style. Take the time to try out the different systems and get a feel for how each system engages the gear change at the cassette. Consider how it feels to shift while resting on the hoods or in the drop position. The feel of the system is an important consideration especially when selecting a system for a racing bicycle.
