Campagnolo 12speed Goes Electronic: Super Record EPS 12speed

Last year, Campagnolo became the first major component manufacturer to launch 12speed drive trains. But those were mechanical only, its electronic EPS groups remained 11speed. This also meant Campagnolo’s pro squads primarily rode 11spd, since all preferred electronic shifting. No more. Campagnolo has now electrified new Super Record 12speed, based on the mechanical group launched last spring. We’ll bring you a long term test soon, but until then, here are the salient details on new Super Record EPS 12speed.

• Both electronic derailleurs use the 12speed architecture created in the mechanical groups that deliver such quick and precise shifting.

• Only two 12 speed cassettes are available, 11-29 and 11-32, and both use the same rear derailleur with a 72.5mm rear cage and feature just single tooth jumps to the 7th sprocket.

• The levers use the same “one button, one job” shifting layout and logic as 11speed EPS groups, but the ergonomics are completely redesigned.

• A new, longer and slimmer battery offers 10% more ride time between charges.

• As with 11speed EPS, shifting inputs and logic can be adjusted with the MyCampy App.

• The new group is available in both disc and rim brake versions.

• A complete 12speed Campagnolo Super Record EPS disc brake group costs $4636, while a rim brake group costs $4292.

Based on the 12speed mechanical Super Record groups, the new 12speed Super Record EPS front derailleur uses the same alloy inner cage and carbon outer cage, designed to deliver smooth big ring shifts under very high load. When cross chained the front derailleur automatically adjusts to keep the ride quiet and efficient. We were impressed with the front derailleur’s performance as a mechanical unit and expect – like other mechanical to electronic front derailleur evolution – it will only be better.

The rear derailleur comes in a single 72.5mm cage version that shifts the two available cassettes: 11-29, 11-32. With the available 50/34 chain rings the group offers significant low range, but still fails to deliver a true 1-1 gear ratio for climbing. 52/36 and 53/39 are also available. Like its mechanical counter part, the rear derailleur makes use of the new ‘embrace’ movement, keeping the now larger 12t pulleys closer to each sprocket, for quicker, smoother and more precise shifts. And all you ‘off-piste’ riders take note, the upper body of the rear derailleur has a return spring to manage chain tension on rough surfaces. In the mechanical version, the rear derailleur is indeed quick and smooth, but what was most impressive is how quick and smooth it was in challenging terrain, thanks to the ‘embrace’ design and the new return spring. We expect great things from the EPS version. 

Check out our look at SRAM’s new 12speed RED eTap right here. 

The new levers, while immediately recognizable as ‘Campy’, with the organic ‘melted butter’ look we have come to know and love, have been significantly redesigned with new hoods for improved vibration damping, new curve to the brake lever, larger shift inputs, new pivot point for better brake leverage, and adjustability of reach and brake contact points.

Using the MyCampy App and the groups BLE and ANT+ connectivity the shift inputs themselves, like 11speed EPS and other electronic groups, can be adjusted as well. Likewise, battery level and fine adjustments can be made straight from the levers with the mode button, which is right behind the thumb shifter on the hood. The interface unit can now also be installed in the frame or handle bar ends.

The rest of the group – cranks, hydro and rim braking, lever internals, chain – is essentially held over either from 11speed EPS or from the mechanical 12speed group launched last year. PELOTON will be getting a long term test bike very soon and will publish those results in the near future.

Complete Group Weights and Prices
Super Record EPS 12speed Disc Brake
2505 grams / $4636
Super Record EPS 12speed Rim Brake
2255 grams / $4292

For more details head to campagnolo.com