The mix consisted of the following:
- Super Record Ultra-Torque Compact Chainset
- Record Ergopower shifters, front and rear derailleurs, and chain;
- Chorus skeleton brakes and cassette.
Record Ergopower Brifters
Coming from Shimano DA 7800, the shape of the Record brifters was different, but I have found them to be more comfortable and 'fitted' than 7800 overall. Whilst you 'lose' a position (you can't really grasp the Records palm down on top of the hoods) I found it of little relevance, as I ride them 'pistol grip style' for virtually the entire time I'm on the hoods, including a number of plus 4 hour rides. Never experienced any discomfort whatsoever, which is great. My hand size is fairly average for a 185cm guy, so I'm confident the shape would fit a wide range of riders mitts. The comfort comes down in part to the 'whale skin' rubber pattern on the hoods: it's compliant yet grippy, and a delight to use. The overall shape is also pleasing: moulds right to the palm and thumb close and tight with no gaps. The inwards tilt of the hood 'horn' assists here. The shape is also not too wide, with my thumb not having to stretch around the hood too far.
The overall size of the brifters is also ideal. Less bulky than the 7800s, they are svelte and compact and very functional. The levers are quite short, but ideally placed for me for either on-hood or in-drops actuation of brakes and gears. The sharpish recurve of the lever makes for excellent application of retardation forces and subtle modulation: 1st class.
The upshift lever is well placed and suitably sized – no missed changes here after an initial familiarisation period. The only point less than perfect here is that upshift stroke length appears to change based on which gear you're currently in. At the smaller end of the block, single upshift sweeps seem to require less arc of travel than those from higher in the block. I occasionally find myself fluffing a change from the 19 sprocket upwards (this on a 12-25 cassette with a ...19,21,23,25 end). Not sure if this is an adjustment issue, or just me being slack! Multiple upshifts in one sweep (to a max of 3 that I've used) don't seem to have the issue.
The downshift button is also fine, more so after the initial stiffness of 'brand new' is taken off via use. This was one area I was potentially concerned about – the button position looks a bit odd to me, but use has shown that's just a function of never having used Campy before. It falls readily to thumb in both hoods and drops, the drop actuation position not doubt being aided in my case by my short drop-length bars. No probs with adjustment whatsoever from DA – I accommodated to the different actuation methodology very quickly, and haven't had any issues reverting to the Shimano shift pattern when under duress! Love the multiple sweep changes here – I frequently use it on declines to go straight to a long gear.
Chorus Skeleton Brakes
I went for Chorus here because of the alloy finish, which look more pleasing to me on my bike. Given I haven't used Record or higher, I can't comment re: that comparison, but having come from DA 7800, I can say that the Chorus setup is just fine thanks. As good as the DA 7800 for feel and modulation, and ultimate stopping power. Does the job great, and I'm confident with them whatever the scenario.
Super Record Ultra-Torque Compact Chainset
Mainly went for these for the CULT bearings and the Cronitect bearing surfaces, which require minimum maintenance and no grease (just oil please!). So far, as smooth as butter, quiet as a mouse and no obvious flex. And they do look nice to me. The special anodization treatment on the chainset rings and teeth surface (nice in its matte black look) seems exceptionally durable, and chain noise is minimal, with extremely smooth changes between the 50-34 sets on the compact setup.
I went compact to get a more central chain run in my commonly used everyday gears, and that has worked well. I also liked the idea of a 34-25 combo as a bail-out gear: the 25 is like a 'free' gear on the 11 speed setup.
Record Front and Rear Derailleurs
Lovely look in black carbon and alloy, and equally lovely in operation.
Definitely more audible shift-wise than DA 7800, but I for one love the positive engagement 'clunk' and feel. I never have any doubt about a change being made. To me, a big improvement on 7800 – the whole setup makes the bike feel sharper and more alive. In addition, the chain tension seems tighter from the RD – there is far less chain slap in general riding than I recall from 7800 over bumpy or broken road sections.
Record Chain and Chorus Cassette
Not being a weight weenie, I'd probably stick with all Chorus here in future, just for the price differentials. Chain and cassette wear is non-existent at this stage, with the ultra thin chain seemingly strong as. A daily lube plus once-a-week full clean helps no doubt, but I'm gonna do that no matter what I'm running, so it's all good.
Overall Assessment
In a word: wrapped!
The setup is such a pleasure to use, with excellent braking and changing, great ergo, and positive and strong feel (I love the engagement vibe and sound!).
In combination with the Colnago CX-1 frame and Eurus wheels, the move to Campy 11 speed has given me a bike which I enjoy riding every second, and when I dismount after a ride, I'm thinking about the next one. The gruppo has really added to the character and flavour of my ride and it's been a pleasure to own and operate.
A great choice, and a hands down winner for me.
Ride Safe!
1 comment:
Surely, you have a pic for us; No?
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