History:

Origins:

Founded in 1933 by Tullio Campagnolo in Vicenza, Italy
Initially produced hubs and quick-release skewers
Expanded into derailleurs and shifters in the 1940s

Key Innovations:

Introduced the first quick-release skewers (1930)
Developed the Campagnolo Record gruppo (1950)
Invented the ergopower shifter-brake levers (1992)
Pioneered electronic shifting with the EPS system (2009)

Product Lines:

Groupsets:

Record (top-of-the-line)
Super Record (for performance-oriented cyclists)
Chorus (a blend of performance and value)
Potenza (entry-level groupset)

Components:

Wheels (Shamal, Bora, Zonda)
Brakes (Chorus, Potenza)
Cranks (Super Record, Record)
Pedals (Record, Chorus)

Technological Innovations:

11-speed: Campagnolo introduced the first 11-speed cassette in 2010, providing cyclists with a wider gear range.
Electronic Shifting: The EPS (Electronic Power Shift) system enables precise and effortless gear changes.
Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Campagnolo’s hydraulic disc brakes offer superior stopping power and modulation.
Carbon Fiber Technology: Campagnolo utilizes carbon fiber in its wheels, cranks, and other components for lightness and durability.

Reputation:

Renowned for its precision engineering and attention to detail
Used by professional cycling teams and enthusiasts alike
Associated with high-performance and iconic cycling moments

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: What is the difference between Campagnolo Record and Super Record groupsets?
A: Super Record is the flagship groupset, offering the lightest components and highest performance. Record is slightly heavier but provides excellent value for money.

Q: How do I choose the right Campagnolo groupset for me?
A: Consider your budget, riding style, and desired performance level. For beginners, Potenza is a good starting point.

Q: Are Campagnolo components compatible with other brands?
A: Some components may be compatible, but it is not recommended to mix and match different brands for optimal performance.

Q: What is the reputation of Campagnolo wheels?
A: Campagnolo wheels are known for their durability, performance, and iconic designs.

Q: Where can I purchase Campagnolo products?
A: Campagnolo products can be purchased from authorized dealers around the world.

Conclusion:

Campagnolo has been a driving force in the cycling industry for over 80 years. Its innovative designs, meticulous craftsmanship, and passion for cycling have earned it a reputation as a leader in high-performance components. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an aspiring enthusiast, Campagnolo products offer an unparalleled blend of quality, performance, and Italian cycling tradition.

Table of Contents

Groupset

A groupset is a set of bicycle components that work together to make up the drivetrain, braking system, and shifters. The groupset includes the following components:

Cassette: A set of sprockets that are attached to the rear wheel.
Chain: A series of links that connect the cassette to the chainring.
Chainring: A set of sprockets that are attached to the crankset.
Crankset: A set of cranks that are attached to the pedals.
Derailleurs: Devices that move the chain between the sprockets on the cassette and chainring.
Shifters: Levers that control the derailleurs.
Brakes: Devices that slow down or stop the bicycle.

Groupsets are typically sold as a complete package, and they are designed to work together seamlessly. However, it is possible to mix and match components from different groupsets to create a custom setup.

Campagnolo Record

Campagnolo Record is a high-end groupset for road racing bicycles produced by the Italian component manufacturer Campagnolo. It is considered one of the premier groups available, known for its quality, functionality, and aesthetics. Record components are typically made from lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber and titanium, to reduce weight and enhance performance. The groupset includes components such as shifters, derailleurs, brakes, and crankset. Record components are designed to work seamlessly together, offering precise shifting, efficient braking, and optimized drivetrain performance. They are used by many professional cyclists and are also popular among recreational riders seeking top-of-the-line components.

Campagnolo Chorus

Campagnolo Chorus is a high-end bicycle component group designed for road racing and touring. It offers a combination of performance, durability, and affordability, making it a popular choice for serious cyclists.

Features:

Forged aluminum construction for lightweight and strength
11-speed drivetrain with a wide gear range
ErgoPower levers with adjustable reach and bar-top shift levers
Dual-pivot brake calipers with excellent stopping power
GXP interface for compatibility with most cranksets

Benefits:

Precise and reliable shifting
Lightweight and responsive performance
Enhanced braking control
Durable construction for long-lasting use
Compatible with various cranksets to customize the drivetrain

Campagnolo Centaur

Campagnolo Centaur is a mid-range groupset for road bikes, offering a balance of performance, durability, and affordability.

Key Features:

11-speed drivetrain with wide range of gears
Carbon fiber brake levers and cranks
Aluminum alloy components for lightweight and durability
Ergopower controls for comfortable hand positioning
Compatible with both rim and disc brakes

Centaur is designed for everyday riding and racing, providing a reliable and efficient shifting system. Its combination of quality materials and Italian craftsmanship ensures long-lasting performance.

Campagnolo Veloce

Campagnolo Veloce is a versatile and durable component group for road bikes, designed for both recreational and competitive cyclists. It offers a balance of performance, affordability, and reliability.

Key Features:

Available in 10-speed and 11-speed configurations
Ergopower shifters with reliable and precise shifting
Dual-pivot brake calipers with excellent stopping power
Hollow-forged crankset for stiffness and weight reduction
Lightweight and durable wheelset options

Benefits:

Offers smooth and accurate shifting, even under load
Provides reliable braking, ensuring control and safety
Delivers efficient pedaling and power transfer
Enhances bike handling and stability
Comes in an attractive and sleek design

Campagnolo Potenza

The Campagnolo Potenza is a high-performance mechanical groupset designed for road bikes. It combines the precision and durability of Campagnolo’s technology with an affordable price point.

Key Features:

11-speed drivetrain for a wide range of gears
Ergopower brake levers with a comfortable grip and easy reach
Skeleton calipers for lightweight and precise braking
Ultra-Shift shifting system for fast and accurate gear changes
Power Torque crankset for efficient power transfer
3T Pro Ergo handlebars for an ergonomic and comfortable ride

The Campagnolo Potenza is an excellent option for riders seeking a reliable and cost-effective road groupset with proven performance.

Campagnolo Athena

Campagnolo Athena is a groupset from the Italian manufacturer Campagnolo, designed for performance-oriented road cyclists. It is a mid-range groupset, offering a balance of performance, reliability, and affordability.

Athena components are made from lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber, and feature advanced technologies like Campagnolo’s Ergopower levers with variable reach adjustment and Power Torque chainset. The groupset provides precise shifting, powerful braking, and a comfortable ride experience.

Key features of Campagnolo Athena include:

Ergopower levers with variable reach adjustment
Power Torque chainset with hollow carbon crank arms
Dual-pivot brake calipers with adjustable pad clearance
11-speed hub with Power Torque technology
Ultra-Shift cable routing for reduced friction

Campagnolo Ekar

Campagnolo Ekar is a gravel-specific groupset designed for adventure and performance on rough terrain. Key features include:

1×13-speed drivetrain with a wide gear range for tackling steep climbs and fast descents.
Hydraulic disc brakes with adjustable reach for precise and powerful stopping.
Ergonomically designed shifters with shift levers easily accessible from multiple hand positions.
Durable materials and construction withstand the rigors of gravel riding.
Compatibility with traditional road wheels for versatility and the option to swap between road and gravel setups.

Campagnolo Super Record

Campagnolo Super Record is the pinnacle of Campagnolo’s road bike component line. It features top-tier materials, precise engineering, and innovative designs, offering unparalleled performance, efficiency, and aesthetics.

Super Record components incorporate high-strength alloys and advanced manufacturing techniques to deliver exceptional stiffness and durability. Its shifting and braking systems are renowned for their crisp actuation and unmatched modulation, enhancing overall riding control.

The distinctive design of Super Record embodies both form and function, with sleek lines and aerodynamic profiles that contribute to improved efficiency. It features lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and titanium, resulting in a component group that minimizes weight while maximizing performance.