Component test

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· 28.02.2009

Component test With the introduction of the eleven-speed drivetrain, Campagnolo pulled off the surprise of the 2009 component year, but the design of the new levers is also causing a sensation. Can Shimano continue to stand up to the Italians with the new Dura-Ace, and is the SRAM Red still competitive in the new environment? Three of many exciting questions that we answer in the biggest and most elaborate component test in the road bike scene.

With the introduction of the eleven-speed drivetrain, Campagnolo pulled off a surprise for the 2009 component year, but the design of the new levers is also causing a sensation. Can Shimano continue to stand up to the Italians with the new Dura-Ace, and is the SRAM Red still competitive in the new environment? Three of many exciting questions that we answer in the biggest and most elaborate component test in the road bike scene.

Clack! What was that? A gear change - on a well-functioning road bike, the only mechanical noise apart from the freewheel that you want to hear while riding. A rattling chain, grinding derailleur, cracking bearings: noises like these, on the other hand, take the joy out of riding, no matter how quiet they are. They are also audible signs of a lack of precision and increased wear. Last but not least, the perfect racer requires the smooth interaction of its individual parts, which the rider must be able to rely on; the character of the bike is decisively characterised by its components. The drivetrain makes the highest mechanical demands: carbon, aluminium and titanium are the ingredients for precision, sophisticated lightweight construction and aesthetics.

SHORT & SHORT

In the competition for the best component group, the two new top ensembles Shimano "Dura-Ace" and Campagnolo "Super Record" share the victory this time, closely followed by the SRAM "Red". However, the high-end groupsets achieved this position with strengths in very different areas. In the lower groupsets, Campagnolo is slightly ahead with the modernised "Chorus" and "Centaur" groupsets; Shimano now looks a little outdated here, but has hardly any technical weaknesses and the best price-performance ratio.

These components can be found in the PDF download:

Campagnolo Super Record, Chorus, Centaur

Shimano Dura-Ace, Ultegra SL, 105

SRAM Red, Force, Rival

Jens Klötzer, TOUR test editor: "The reduced, robust technology and the successful lightweight construction of the SRAM Red are still convincing selling points. However, if the Americans want to keep up with the latest products, a few weaknesses need to be eliminated."

Matthias Borchers, TOUR test editor: "Shimano has further expanded its strengths with the new Dura-Ace, the shifting behaviour is unsurpassed. The visual impression is excellent, but I don't think the ergonomics of the new levers are quite as good."

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