Mechanical Ergopower levers – refined design

Campag is famous for its Ergopower levers and the latest Super Record and Record 12-speed groupsets stick with the thumb lever and single paddle design. However, the shifter’s ergonomics have been updated, with brake levers that now arc outwards to help with access from the drops, with added reach adjustability over the previous generation. By the same token, the thumb paddles have been tweaked with a dropped lip – something Campagnolo claims will help riders access the shifter in all positions. Meanwhile, the hoods feature an updated design and the padding has been updated.

Otherwise, the shifter that sits behind the brake lever has also been enlarged over previous generations of Super Record and Record, while Campag’s PR man Joshua Riddle tells us it sits more tightly behind the brake lever for improved aero efficiency and aesthetics.

“We’ve also lowered the brake lever pivot so it’s now in line with the handlebar,” says Riddle. “The aim here is to reduce the force required at the brake lever for the same brake power, improving efficiency.”

Shift functionality remains the same in the right lever (which operates the rear derailleur), with three clicks achievable in the same press of the thumb to make multiple shifts down the cassette, and up to five clicks possible through the throw of the shift paddle.

Rear derailleur – improved tooth engagement

The rear derailleur has also seen a complete overhaul of its internal workings to accommodate the 12-tooth cassettes, but there’s plenty more going on to make us sit up and take note.

Previous 11-speed groupsets have used Campagnolo’s ‘2D Embrace Technology’, which moved the rear derailleur upwards to improve chain-tooth engagement. This has been developed into a second-generation ‘3D’ version, which simultaneously moves the derailleur forwards to help it engage with an extra tooth.

“This extra tooth engagement gives not only better power transfer, but will also prolong the life of the components,” says Riddle.

Larger pulley wheels – now featuring 12 teeth each – are said to further improve power transfer as well as ensure drivetrain precision and reliability even when running a chain-crossed 34-11t gear ratio. Once again, cage walls have been thinned but without apparently losing rigidity in the construction.

There will only be one size of rear derailleur thanks in part to the option of only two cassettes across the groupsets (11-29t, 11-32t, see below). Handily, Campagnolo has made sure that the hanger system can run directly or indirectly, so for direct-mount frames, all you need to do is remove the hanger piece. The cage in the Super Record version is carbon, while Record’s is alloy.

“We’ve also incorporated a new return spring mechanism in the rear derailleur itself,” explains Riddle. “This spring helps to absorb vibrations, and maintain shift performance on rougher roads.” The new rear derailleur is only a claimed 3g heavier than the previous 11-speed model.

Chain – thinner and lighter

The chain has been narrowed to run smoothly with the thinner 12 sprockets, with a lighter construction to boot. Campagnolo tells us that it’s been stress-tested to the same longevity standards seen with 11-speed rivals.

Brakes – rim and disc brake options

Campagnolo has also redesigned the Super Record and Record rim brake calipers, with both available in either traditional or direct mount format. The shell of the front caliper has been smoothed for a smoother profile in the wind, while the internal spacing now accommodates 28c tyres.

They also make use of bearings instead of standard bushings to ensure smooth application of braking force, while the direct mount calipers also feature a bracing arm aimed at reducing stress applied to the frame and seatstays.

We got hands-on with the new mechanical Super Record and Record groupsets at the launch in Gran Canaria – you can read our full first ride review here.

Full groupset weights

Mechanical Record: 2,213g
Mechanical Record Disc Brake: 2,453g
Mechanical Super Record: 2,041g
Mechanical Super Record Disc Brake: 2,323g

EPS Super Record: TBC
EPS Super Record Disc Brake: TBC

Full groupset prices and availability

Mechanical Record: £1,750.06 (available from June 2018)
Mechanical Record Disc Brake: £2,138.27 (available from July 2018)
Mechanical Super Record: £2,603.05 (available from May 2018)
Mechanical Super Record Disc Brake: £2,856.29 (available from June/July 2018)

EPS Super Record: £TBC (available from November 2018)
EPS Super Record Disc Brake: £TBC (available from November 2018)