Campagnolo Gears Up for a Comeback: 13-Speed Wireless Groupset Spotted at Giro d’Italia, Thumb Shifter Returns!
The cycling world is buzzing with excitement as Campagnolo appears to be on the verge of launching a revolutionary new groupset. Just two years after releasing their first wireless system, Super Record Wireless, spy shots and sightings at the recent Giro d'Italia hint at a major overhaul. Is this the comeback cycling enthusiasts have been waiting for?
The most notable revelation is the apparent return of the beloved thumb shifter, a feature long associated with Campagnolo's legacy but absent in the initial Super Record Wireless design. This move seems to address mixed reactions that followed the previous design change, potentially winning back loyal fans. A notable shift from competitors like Shimano and SRAM, both of whom rely on paddle-based systems.
Spotted on the bike of Team Cofidis rider Stefano Oldani, the new groupset features a single, hollowed-out paddle behind the carbon brake lever and a redesigned thumb paddle on the inner face of the brake hood. Some reports suggest a third button is also present, potentially configurable for shifting or controlling bike computers.
Beyond the shifters, other notable upgrades and changes include:
- 13-Speed Cassette: Campagnolo seems poised to join the 13-speed revolution after launching Ekar, signaling a leap forward in gearing options.
- Redesigned Derailleurs: Both the front and rear derailleurs appear to have undergone significant changes, with material cut away to create a more skeletal aesthetic.
- Same Batteries The batteries appear to be the same as the previous model.
"A new chapter is beginning in the history of Campagnolo, " the company said in a statement, emphasizing their legacy of innovation dating back to the original Super Record groupset in 1973. This new groupset aims to meet the needs of various market segments.
While many details remain unconfirmed, the emergence of this prototype at a major event like the Giro d'Italia strongly suggests that a formal announcement is imminent.
What are your thoughts on Campagnolo's potential return to the thumb shifter and its entry into the 13-speed market? Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below!