Campagnolo Record 12: Is It Better Than Di2 and AXS?

A comprehensive review of what it's like to ride the Campagnolo Record 12speed Mechanical Groupset.
I breakdown the features and share my ride impressions in several real world riding conditions.
With the industry push towards all things electronic and hydraulic, this mechanical groupset is the only high end 12 speed mechanical groupset on the market.
#12speed
#Campagnolo
#Shimano
#sramaxs
#di2
#groupset
#bikebuild
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[@thegoodwheel]

A special thanks to Harold "Smiley" Davis for the awesome Slow Mo video in the park

[@tomkunich9401]

I'm 78 and I did 4000 miles and 30,000 meters of climbing despite some minor health problems this year. I want steel and Campagnolo Record.

[@PoliticusRex632]

55 year old Disabled Marine here. I ride a 1984 Colnago Mexico with Campagnolo Nuevo. Don't know how far I rode this year, I just rode.

[@thegoodwheel]

Ride on Tom!

[@crowone464]

Awesome

[@filippoarenzano]

Respect

[@DogDoc1991]

That’s great Tom.

[@BacktoHardware]

“Tutto Campagnolo” 😂 forever! Cheers from Italy by a Campagnolo fan!

[@thegoodwheel]

Ciao!

[@jimbrittain402]

I am SO DONE with being forced to upgrade, and with the steady increase in cost. I never would have gotten started. I'm impressed that Campy is still offering a mechanical, rim-brake option. Other than that, I'm going with Chinese brands.

[@ea21411]

There is no need for 12s on 2x systems,

[@letheal]

@@ea21411 1x is fine with 11 also for an offroad bike.

[@justaletdown]

It is the best time to buy second hand lightweight rimbrake bikes for peanuts from people who "upgraded" to 8kg+ aero disc bikes 🤣😂

[@thegoodwheel]

😂😂😂

[@velohas7143]

Actually last year after being riding Shimano and Sram for years for the first time in my life i rode a 10sp Campy equipped bike and ....kept it 😀 and truly there is something special in there or just I'm going Campy 🤔...🤦🏼‍♂️

[@benjaminwolf9801]

First and foremost I find Campagnolo is like a best kept secret in cycling. Those who know, KNOW. Chorus - best bang for your buck Record - refine Chorus Super Record - love, simply love

[@thegoodwheel]

👍🏾

[@AndrewBlucher]

​@@thegoodwheel You make quite a thing of the multi-gear change features for Record and Super Record. I haven't used 12sp yet, but in 10 and 11 speed this feature is also present in Chorus. In my understanding, the three gruppos have the same features except for weight.

[@thegoodwheel]

@@AndrewBlucher thanks for watching. The whole point of the video is to show some unique features of the 12 speed Record compared to other 12 speed offerings on the market. "Is this the best value in 12 speed groupsets on the market?" There isn't an implication that the 11 speed doesn't do it.👍🏾

[@AndrewBlucher]

@@thegoodwheel Ah, I you misunderstood my meaning, which was that Chorus so far has had all the features of the higher gruppos, so I'd expect that to continue.

[@st3ppenwolf]

@@AndrewBlucher Indeed, Chorus is the cheapest SR12 you can buy. However, if you want EPS you need to go all the way to SR

[@bonbonflippers4298]

My thoughts on your listed 3: Tubeless for road bikes: I rode them for a while and they are very comfortable. But I switched back to tubes because the maintenance (if properly done) was such a hassle and cost more over time with sealant refills and deep cleaning after every 6months. Disc brakes: currently have 3 disc brakes and 2 rim brakes. I like disc but rim brakes are more than enough for road riding. I am actually looking to replace one of my disc bikes for another rim. Rim brakes so much easier to maintain and switch wheels with compared to disc and its ridiculous rubbing. Hidden cables: as a recreational cyclist this is one thing I absolutely hate of all the crap innovation today. The nightmare of working with cables and hose replacement...we don't need that. I want to be able to work on my bikes the way the rim brake bikes used to be! External everything...easy 10min cabling. I've never tried campy Groupo because of the cost compared to the "main stream" 11speed Shimano/ sram. I have no plans to move from my 10 and 11speed bikes. Switching back and forth 10 and 11speed I can't tell the difference. I doubt 11 and 12speeds has any benefits to casual riders such as myself. I would love to get my hands on campy just to try them out but I'm quite happy with my shimano ultegra and sram red.

[@marshallh9]

I would add to the list - hookless rims

[@cyclopath457]

Absolutely agree. Although I'm happy with tubeless. Been doing it for years but could live with either or both if I had too. Tried shimano and campag electronic and mech. I dont have any bikes with electronic at the mo and no plans to get one especially.

[@larrygonzales7329]

Yah Agree with inner cable issue, it's noisy also , sometimes smashing the downtube inside and creating noise...

[@selcukcilek555]

What is not discussed in the video and what people just don't focus on is the fact that with the same space between the rear dropouts and added sprockets the chains are getting thinner and thinner and their lifespans dropping drastically because there are NO innovations and/or new materials within the industry to compensate that. My claim is supported by Sram's product description for their new "outer straight designed " 12 speed chains. My Wippermann 7 speed chains almost lasted forever compared to my current 10 speed Shimano/Sram/KMC chains. Will stay with 10 speed because I am too old for new "upgrades". Same mileage usage decreases can be said about bicycle tyres. The industry never takes their hands out of our wallets.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you for sharing BonBon flippers!

[@lionstigersandbears235]

As a baby boomer I naturally love Campy because when I started riding it represented you’ve arrived. This summer I finally bought a bike with a full Campy groupset and I understand the hype. The carbon fiber parts look great and perform how you’d expect a masterpiece of engineering to work. Thanks for your unbiased review. You identified something about the brake lever that I didn’t know. Keep riding.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Steven

[@stuartlew654]

@@thegoodwheel a

[@MrWBB63]

I switched from Shimano to Campy in 1995 due to ergonomics. The inner button switch made it easier to upshift while sprinting, out of the saddle, without having to ponder which lever to hit (as with Shimano STI levers). I never looked back. The quality and, yes, beauty of the Campy gruppo surprised me and has kept me a fan all of these years!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing that William👍🏾

[@jonk967]

That's some great info. Keep the great videos coming!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Jon👍🏾

[@ridetotheright1]

I love that Campagnolo is a traditional company that produces art! I am not surprised they are hanging on to traditional mechanisms. I am not a fan of e-shifting having tested it.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing👍🏾

[@1a2b3c4.]

I been waiting for this.👍

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for watching Mario!

[@howardleckey2089]

Luis! Great analysis again. Love your comment on campy doesn’t wear out it just breaks in. So true, still riding a 80s super record bike and 90s 8 and 9spds bikes. Sometimes its the riding quality feel the components add! This is just another thing we all love about our road bikes. Thank Luis, alot of great content again!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Howard! Your sentiment is really appreciated 👍🏾

[@jananilcolonoscopu4034]

Your reviews are getting even better

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Jan! Working on it👍🏾

[@arianewell6252]

Just wanna say thanks for posting this fantastic video!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for watching Aria👍🏾

[@DrGIzmoBRad]

Luis, Your video of the mechanical Campy Record 12 speed system was all encompassing. From the human interface at the levers, to 5 down / 3 up gear skips, and shifting speed assessments - you hit all the technical points w/o missing a beat. Really liked your intro 'index' followed by the ordered talking points. Your preparation and presentation was spot on. Many thanks, Brad B.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Bradley! I appreciate that👍🏾

[@mattharding1969]

Luis, really great review, and right there with you on your stance of the industry on all accounts. I still have some Campagnolo Chorus 8-speed controls, derailleurs and cassettes that I just can't part with because they are still that good.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thise 8 speed groupsets were very robust Matt! Hold on to 'em👍🏾

[@katomiler843]

Dude, I am so glad you introduced me to this group set!!!

[@thegoodwheel]

Welcome aboard!

[@StanEby1]

Very edifying. All the best.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Stan👍🏾

[@Driver8takeabreak]

Absolutely love the feel of the 10 spd Campy levers.

[@thegoodwheel]

👍🏾

[@kingaroykid]

Luis, thank you for an excellent detailed review for the average man in the street. I learned a lot.

[@joepan8295]

Hi Luis. I’m new to your channel. Really enjoying it trying to catch up on your past videos. You’re awesome with your analysis, really makes us appreciate why we love riding. I’m 61, living in Canada but hoping to spend a lot of time in Florida (gulf side) in retirement. BTW, been riding campy super record 11 for the past 10 years. Loving them. Enjoy!

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Joe! Thank you so much. Maybe I'll see you on a ride in Tampa👍🏾

[@mattttt3057]

Ohh yes...Campy wearing in when Shimano is wearing out is so true! The only cyclists who know this to be true are the old 'seasoned' riders, who...'know' I really like11 speed Campag mechanical with Potenza and Centaur on my bikes. Smooth shifting! Never have to do much to it other than a rear derailleur adjust, unlike my wife's 11 speed Shimano Ultegra that breaks gear cables twice a year. Been riding Campagnolo since 1985, before that it was Suntour Superbe for 2 years... on a Colnago Mexico frame. Suntour was a great groupset, better than Shimano EX and AX of the time. Other reasons I like the 11 speed....can use shimno and SRAM cassettes with zero problems. For me I might buy a disc bike sometime in the future...maybe??? But until then Rim brakes, Aluminium Wheels and Campy...what's not to like!

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Matt, sountour superbe pro was good stuff. Remember rhe Sachs shifters?

[@RomaniMTB]

Excellent video!!! Thanks for sharing the information. I am team SRAM AXS on both my MTB and my Road bike but I really like Campy as well.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Romani! SRAM seems to really shine on MTB

[@jamiegrant8764]

Great video and finally someone who talks about Campagnolo in a good way. I currently use Record 11 speed and it is completely flawless and I don't think I have to adjust the tension more than once a year at the most. Campagnolo chains are a lot better than Shimano and last a lot longer as does the cassettes. I could strip my bike down tomorrow and sell the groupset for more money than I paid for it as people want them and especially if you have a five arm crankset. Damage your Campagnolo levers/shifters and mechs and you can have them rebuilt unlike the other two big brands which are all throw away and replace. I will pick up on a couple of things as you left out Chorus 12 speed being available in both rim and disc versions and don't forget they were also the first manufacturer to 13 speed as well although that is for gravel......hmmmm, will we see a 2x13 groupset for the road in the next couple of years?. To a certain extent Campagnolo was the leader for the modern electronic groupset and nearly had an electronic groupset on the market in the early 2000s, but really it was MAVIC who started it all way back with the Mektronic and Zap groupsets in the early 90s. Happy new year from the Scottish Highlands.

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Jamie! Greeting to you and thanks for sharing. 13 speed for road, I hope not. I left out the Mavic zapp because, well... it didn't do well. But yes. Thanks for watching👍🏾

[@williamjewett5068]

Thank you for your positive and thorough review … and help keeping the Campagnolo brand alive .

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi William! Thanks for watching... it's a great brand👍🏾

[@johnwedlake5543]

Great review. Just received my new custom steel bike with Campagnolo record 12 and WTO Bora wheels. It’s buttery smooth and a pleasure to ride all day.

[@thegoodwheel]

Ticks all the boxes👍🏾

[@ericpmoss]

Gotta say, the shifts from even 2011 Campy is fast and smooth -- nicer than the Di2 I put on later bikes. One thing I think really helps it is to replace the cable and housing with the compression-less JagWire segmented housing and mandrel-drawn ultra smooth cable. I think that helps no matter the brand of groupset.

[@adam__smith]

I have 2006 Chorus on one of my bikes, and it still works flawlessly. Love those smooth but precise shifts.

[@johnflynn4923]

Nice overall review, Campy has always been an innovator and as a premium product its price point is actually very reasonable not to mention the sheer beauty of the Campy aesthetics, the crank arms are a work of art in themselves.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you John!

[@TheRickysee]

Absolutely epic video loved it loved it

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Rickysee👍🏾

[@waynosfotos]

Campy fan here and did a review as well. This is a exceptional product. The revolution 11 speed was so so but the 12 speed is fantastic.

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Wayne! Thanks for watching, I do follow your videos and did see it👍🏾

[@Stratulax]

My 2020 Bianchi Aria is rim braked and cabled. A lot less headaches and no brake chatter. I also love the fact that I can do most of the maintenance myself. I remember Campy from back in the 80's. I remember that my old Sachs Grip Shift as well as my old Shimano Rapid Fire setups did multiple shifts easily. I wondered where that had gone. Sounds like it's time to finally give Campy the look they deserve. Thanks! 👍🏾

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for watching. Sachs disappeared but were good components

[@Slickvic968]

Great stuff Luis. I was considering the new eps 12 but feared for lack of support per se. I love the tradition of Italian cycling. At 59 1/2, I’m not going to the world tour, but occasionally join fast group rides. With this info I’m back on the campy train with the next bike build, hopefully this year. My first bike is an ‘84 Trek 770 w/ campagnolo victory groupset .

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Victor, I remember that groupset. The new Campy stuff is stellar👍🏾

[@sebastianm2381]

Funnily enough, a mechanical 12sp Campagnolo groupset like Record can now be considered almost a budget option among all the other electronic options with 105 now costing 1800 quid. It’s crazy. Campy Record and SR used to be boutique only. Goes to show how crazy prices have gotten.

[@thegoodwheel]

Agreed Sebastian!

[@kevinfrost1579]

@sebastianm2381 echo you 100%. The market bargain at present is 12spd Chorus, nigh on same performance as SR and R, difference is handful of grams. Campagnolo has always delivered ‘true value’ ie : quality in its top tier products , now in the current market it can deliver ‘best value for money’ as well. Oh happy days 😍

[@mariconor242]

Excellent review, I’m sold 👍

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for watching mariconor👍🏾

[@sillypuddystl2907]

Fantastic vid. Thanks

[@gibbo3783]

Excellent review! I’m on 2014 Record and Super Record 11 on my two bikes.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Gibbo!

[@Bklynbound]

I’m sold! very informative video

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Lionel👍🏾

[@goodoleme747]

Thanks to you and another KZbinr, I went with Campagnolo on my latest build. I went with a combo of Chorus and Record…I’m still waiting for the weather to break to put more miles on it, but so far I love it.

[@thegoodwheel]

Awesome! Love this👍🏾

[@stevensantana8049]

Love your video.. the Bianchi Pinella Steel born that I have has now it campy 12 Speed record been riding for months now it very good shifting.. now I got new frame already and ordered another group set record as well but rim brakes

[@thegoodwheel]

Sounds awesome Steven👍🏾

[@wearemajortaylor]

Excellent review! 👍

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Fam👊🏾

[@christophertrapp4195]

My biggest pet peeve in cycling components is the discontinuation of wear and tear parts. As 12 speed is becoming more prevalent, high end 11 speed wear and tear parts are becoming harder to find. One of my bikes is running mechanical Sram Red 11 speed with rim brakes. While mid-tier 11 speed cassettes probably won't die off, I know 11 speed Red cassettes will soon. Same for Dura Ace. If I'm spending well over $10k for a complete bike, I want to maintain it with the same caliber parts that it came with for over a decade. Campagnolo historically, is MUCH better than Shimano and Sram in this area. New replacement 10 speed shifters and cassettes from across their lineup are still readily available. I absolutely love the double bend of Campy's brake lever blades. I think it's Campy's most underrated feature. I'm particular about where the thumb paddle is though. I feel like it's located a bit too high and forward for me on some group sets. I love how EPS lowered the thumb lever and made it a bit more flush to the hood. I don't have to reach up with your thumb as much from the drops. The lower end Campy levers have a similar placement, but don't allow multiple upshifts like Record. Not a deal breaker for me, but it is for many riders. All component manufacturers have their pros and cons. For me, Campy is an experience. It's fun to use and it's well thought out. It's a technological island in many respects though, and needing dedicated Campagnolo tools can be an expensive hassle.

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Christopher, thank youbfor sharing your insights and experiences 👍🏾

[@AndyK.23]

Great overview! Also, you have some killer bikes that look amazing!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Sir!

[@Sprocketboy1956]

"Campy doesn't wear out...". As someone with several 9-speed Campy-equipped bikes I can vouch for that (although I also have three 9-speed Dura Ace ones as well). My most recent acquisition was a C40 with 9-speed Chorus/Record and I am always struck by the machine-like feel of Campy shifter compared to the lighter Shimano. The parts are quite beautiful and that has to count for something. On the C40 I am running a 52/39 chainset with a 13-26 cassette, which would probably be better for Florida than where I am! With respect to your industry dislikes, I am very impressed with the stopping power of the Chorus rim brakes so no disc brakes for me.

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Leslie! Thanks for sharing. That c40 sounds like a dream👍🏾

[@md-wg4bz]

I’m still riding my old school steel frame Pinarello with the Campy Daytona group. 😁

[@thegoodwheel]

👍🏾

[@ViddyWellBrother]

I've been running Campy Super Record 12 mechanical on 1 bike for a year or so, and I have SR11 on 2 bikes, and then Record 10 on 3 bikes. I still think 10sp carbon/Ti was perfection, but I agree that for not feeling like you're missing some gears whilst keeping pace in a group ride, the 12sp is just incredible. And yes, those shifter contacts points are the most well-designed and comfy I've ever encountered. Campagnolo just is, and really always has been, next level. Plus, I suspect like you, I somehow just feel better putting Italian parts on Italian frames. 🇮🇹😁Viva Campagnolo, and Viva rim brakes! Oh, and yes, tubes are so much easier when all is said and done. Dealing with sealant fluid, etc.,...oh, I soon grew tired of that! In any case, another great vid! Keep them coming! 😃

[@thegoodwheel]

That's quiet a stable you have👍🏾

[@dsonyay]

Oh and great video! You’re style is really good and very organized. “ Fuhgetabotit”!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you 🙏🏾

[@tmkim]

Thank you. I am simply old school purist.. I love Campy group sets for exactly what you point out....Though I have been a shimano guy since College days in the mid 80's.....I no longer find my days rain or shine in my old daily work commuting up and down my hill into the City, so rim brakes and non electrified is just fine with me. I now choose when I ride and do not ride in rain these days much unless caught out....Quick releases, ez brake changes without bleeding etc... it just works for me being now a recreational cyclist....

[@thegoodwheel]

Ride on Terry! Thanks for sharing 👍🏾

[@thepsychobilly88]

Thank you for the in depth review! I've been hesitating on ordering a 12 Speed Record groupset for my upcoming Cinelli Super Corsa, but your review made place the order 8-) Much respect and keep up the preem content! EDIT: wanted to add; I have three old road bikes, they all have Campagnolo groupsets ranging from Nuovo Gran Tour, Athena to C-Record. It's weird have Shimano stuff from the same era just feels lower quality and flimsy somehow, it's hard to explain but campagnolo stuff is like meant to last and "wear in", as you and others have said

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing that Thomas. Sounds like a super build👍🏾

[@randellgribben9772]

i was looking into the 12 with rim brakes..if i did,, i would sell the new calipers and go back a few years,, and buy the pretter record calipers....the new 12 calipers and very ugly

[@thepsychobilly88]

@@randellgribben9772 I hear ya.. I dislike the new style crank design that Campagnolo uses these days, the "four arm" ones. The older ones with five "arms" looked much better in my opinion. I think the 11 speed super record was the last one to use the five arm style, which had been pretty much unchanged since the C-Record

[@gb4408]

I have Super Record, Record, and Chorus 11 speed on three bikes I have and the cables were done 6 or 7 years ago. They shift as good as the day they were done. The cable inners ends are soldered not crimped the cable outers are properly finished which is the true KEY towards longevity. I DO NOT GET SHOPS TO DO THE CABLES, I DO THEM MYSELF. I find shops view it as a disposable product, do not properly finnish they actually want you to come back every 6 months as it is they're bread and butter and you have been SOCIALISED that cables are expendible, unreliable and require constant replacement. I use Campagnolo sealed ferrule at the derailleur cable end and sealed cap at the downtube. Teflon grease is run down the inner, cable outers are filled with Teflon oil. The nner cable ends are soldered. The cable lengths are inner and outers are determined dry, recorded for possible future replacement, where they could be sized and finished before removing the currently fitted cables. RESULT 7 years and counting. It's a falicy the inners wear out. They are pre stretched Campagnolo stainless inners, I use a shop box roll of Durace outer. It is the outer cable that is problematic and requires replacement due to plastic ferrules being use where the individual wires pull into the ferrules, use stainless, Campagnolo etc and the cable ends are not supported for cable end integrity support. If inner cables are not crushed from being crimped you REUSE THEM. Oh my God I can hear shops the World over saying OFF WITH HIS GONNADS. I might not need to replace my cables during my lifetime. Go figure. Don't buy ELECTRONIC unless you are rich and replace your bike every couple of years there is no longevity and manufacturers will change standards and compatibility to ensure this. Uck them.

[@xaviermelendez2639]

~ Campagnolo Spoken Here ~ Another really great video, appreciate your insights and commentary. Yeah man, a tip of the hat to you for representing the Big C! Your video is so timely, as I just purchased a vintage early 90s De Rosa SLX steel frameset and have been contemplating what Campy group to get. As a long time rider too, riding and involved with the cycling industry since the mid-1980s, it goes without saying, “Campagnolo-there is no substitute”! One small suggestion, an in-depth review of Campy disc brakes, especially Record or Super Record level would be cool. I’ve not tried them yet, but have heard from other folks in the industry that they are considered the very best available. OK, now to my thoughts on your listed 3…. Disc Brakes - as an avid MTBer and gravel rider/racer, I couldn’t imagine life without disc brakes. That said, I still value and cherish a good rim brake set up too. (Looking at you Cane Creek eeBrakes!) Tubeless Tires - yup, same general comment, as a MTBer and gravel rider, life just wouldn’t be the same without tubeless tires. Same goes for tubeless on road bikes, love love love the ride quality of a good tubeless road set up, feels very much like a high quality hand made tubular. Have to recall winning a regional masters road stage race, thanks to tubeless tires self-sealing during a puncture while out on course, managing to finish the stage, albeit with approx. 40lbs of pressure, and going on to win overall GC. Integrated/Internal Routing - Hmmm… have a love hate with this one for sure. Overall, as a consumer, I think it has a clean and modern aesthetic. As someone who mostly wrenches on their own bikes, I find integrated front ends (handlebar, stem, steerer, frame) to be a total PITA! #rideallbikes

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing your insights Xavier... and congratulations on that win👍🏾

[@Ed-ip2sg]

Thanks for your video. I rode campy for many years starting back when shifters were in the down tube. I’ve had a mid grade shinano ultegra for a long time. It’s had several repairs, some pretty expensive. My Campagnolo s’ were always rock solid. No problem going back. Getting ready to watch your video on the steal frame. Back in the day the old chrome Molly tubing was the thing and it held up. Im sure it’s a new thing now. I still have my 1986 Rossin frame with a campy chorus on it. Put many miles on it. Still ridable.

[@thegoodwheel]

I think it's amazing that you've kept your steel Rossin! Thanks for sharing👍🏾

[@jsfoster100]

It was made for me! I have been riding the set since the month it came out in usa…It is always a joy, i have had it on. 3 frames….i am 77 and have been riding campy since the 70s

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing Jonathan! You are definitely an inspiration to keep pushing the pedals 👍🏾

[@wplg]

Wow~! Lighting is everything~! Now you can see what I meant about useing the sunlight to your advantage. What a contrast in your group ride when the sun is behind you, vs in front of you. Just show a little patience before you roll tape. Looks great visually now. Glad to be of service!

[@thegoodwheel]

👍🏾

[@drjwbriand]

"passione", says it all! there is everything else and then there is campy! i only have one complaint, and that is your yankees hat since i'm a diehard red sox fan....but hey i forgive you cuz you've got a lot more to look forward to than i do!!! great video- rock on bro!

[@thegoodwheel]

Ha ha! Thank you. That hat gave me a lot of grief when I lived in Atlanta😁

[@jdh895]

I've ridden Campagnolo primarily for almost 25 years and generally love it. But I have to say, I'm a huge fan of electronic shifting and intellectually don't regret 'shifting' to Di2 on the road and AXS off it, even if emotionally it's been a bit of a tug. Outside of cross racing and tt-ing, electronic doesn't make you faster, but it's a very definite nice to have, and if you ride in crappy conditions, maintenance is drastically reduced. AXS on my gravel/cx bike has been an absolute game changer. But I applaud Campagnolo for making something so functional and beautiful. These days, it would be Chorus for me (apart from the callipers - Chorus are actually Tektro and rust), but that Colnago is perfect with Record, btw :-) One niggle about the current Campag stuff is the pronounced ridge at the end of the hood; if you have smaller hands, it can be very uncomfortable after a few hours in the saddle and you need some creativity with bar taping (as well as careful bar choice) to resolve the issue. Great vid.

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi JD, thanks for sharing your insights👍🏾

[@bikedad57]

I’m so glad I saw this video. Excellent review of the Campy Record 12. I’m considering buying a 2008 Orbea Opal Carbon with Campy Record and rim brakes (from my daughter)😊. The only upgrade I would consider is to the Campy Record 12. I see no need to go with digital and disc, especially at 66 years. I was really happy to see that at least 2 of your bikes have rim brakes. I also have a Specialized Diverge gravel and Cannondale supersix evo carbon, but am looking forward to a test ride on the Orbea!

[@thegoodwheel]

That should be a trusted seller😁 The Record 12 is really outstanding 👍🏾

[@rrosomasa]

Nice video and totally agree. People don't know what they're missing out with Campy, they think is just a pricey offering, but in reality they are so much better, you do get what you pay for - high quality. Also, I still run rim brakes and not looking to switch. And finally i'm happy with my clinchers - if it ain't broke, don't fix it!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you edmasamo!

[@tootsgrande]

Great video! I love Campag Record 12 mechanical. I have the rim brake version on a C60 frameset. However, I was hoping to upgrade to a disc brake mechanical when Colnago released the C68 range. I was extremely disappointed to learn that mechanical group sets would not be accommodated, so I am sticking with my C60!

[@peterlux3593]

Thx. Great analysis!

[@thegoodwheel]

👍🏾

[@AdamEwart]

DA9000 allows a three cog sweep on the larger right side lever. Admittedly only when shifting "easier", but helpful when a pinch climb hits. Also, I'll shift to big ring, and sweep down three gears on the cassette simultaneously to maintain similar cadence. Nice content, two thumbs up! 👍👍

[@dizzybuizzy9347]

Gone are the days of *Keeping It Simple* - I still prefer riding Bikes from the late 80's, and 90's to anything made today!

[@selcukcilek555]

@@dizzybuizzy9347 I am old rider (68 years) and have ridden that era. Nevertheless 2 innovations made cycling easier which I would not like to miss. Clipless pedals and STI levers. No way I am going back to downtube shifting and leather and cage pedals.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing that Adam👍🏾

[@Joser167]

Awesome video. I plan on upgrading my current groupset (Ultregra R8000) to my 2018 Scott Addict RC 15. I'm going with Campy Record

[@thegoodwheel]

That sounds like a nice build. Thanks for sharing

[@richardabela9003]

Spot on video... totally true..

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Richard👍🏾

[@ewhip17]

I gotta say, I own a bunch of nice carbon bikes with electronic shifting, disc brakes and hidden cables. But I just picked up a very reasonably priced steel bike with rim brakes and cables everywhere and I love it. Yes, it takes me back to when I was younger and rode steel and rim brakes because that was about that all that was available. But just the simplicity, ease of use and ease of maintenance was such a breath of fresh air.

[@thegoodwheel]

Nice experience! Thanks for sharing👍🏾

[@katomiler843]

Totally agree with your hit list and forced innovation, Luis!!! 👍

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Kato👍🏾

[@nellyx1x493]

Spot-on analysis. Another rider here wise enough to not want hidden cables, tubeless on less than 32c, battery gizmo's, discs on a tarmac bike, and I'd add bb30 to the no-go list. Record 12spd mechanical rim would be at the top of the list for the next groupset out of default due to what the other brands are now not supporting...

[@katomiler843]

I totally agree on the bb30/BBright, nothing but trouble for me.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing your insights Nelly👍🏾

[@_vlad420]

I had a 12 speed Campagnolo Record that came with my Colnago. I sold it and got a 11 speed mechanical Shimano Ultegra. I realized that anything Campagnolo can do, Shimano can do better. It shifts well, yes, no disagreement with that, but so does other brands. But my main issue was the overall shifting design, like shifting down while you're on the drops during sprints or while descending. Almost like the designers never thought that rider's don't always ride on the hoods. Comparing that to Shimano's design, which is much easier, practical. Shimano's design just makes more sense. And mechanical Shimano can shift multiple gears with one shift of the lever too. In truth, Campagnolo is like a collector's thing now. For those recreational riders who are into the whole "Italian heritage" thing, so it's definitely a niche brand.

[@n22pdf]

Excellent overview Louis.. I’m an Ultegra mechanical guy and don’t want electronic.. tried it didn’t like it.. so switching to Campy will become a possibility for me 👏👍🤩🏅🚴

[@thegoodwheel]

Hey Pete! Thanks for sharing that👍🏾

[@thesergeant3524]

Great assessment. Another application I just found about about recently is for gravel and adventure bikes. I came across a user that swapped out the wheel from a Sram X01 rear mountain bike derailleur and replaced it with the wheel from a j-tek shiftmate. This changed the pull ratio and allowed him to use Campy Record levers with a SRAM 10-52 cassette for an off road adventure bike. For brakes he used Paul Klampers. Right now the only other option for 12 speed drop bar mullet gearing is Ratio Tech+Sram levers. These Campy levers look like t hey could be a great option for adventure cyclists too.

[@thegoodwheel]

Frankengrearing! Love it👍🏾

[@henryiba386]

Yup! Tubeless (road), disc brakes(road) & hidden cables(nightmare to work on): all on my hit list. Also, no mechanical groupsets come in a close second. Nice video.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Henry!

[@Mikeatcitycycle]

Totally neglected to add.............great, thoughtful, mature content Luis!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks Mike👍🏾

[@loc9588]

Very interesting video! Im still using 9 speed, it’s great because parts are so cheap to replace and it works fine when set up properly.

[@selcukcilek555]

Agree. I have stopped "upgrading" with 10 speed.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing Loc👍🏾

[@turboseize]

Also, 9-speed seems to last forever. The guy at my local bike shop just today dissuaded me from changing my chain. Again. He did the same last year. Chain is now well over 10.000km... As I refused to belive him, he measured it in front of my eyes. He was, of course, right. (Never argue with a mechanics' experience). Someone once said Shimano wears out, Campagnolo wears in, and maybe there is some truth to that. (Somewhere in my fathers basement there is a wheelset with my grandfathers Nuovo Record hubs, that I rebuilt after he gave them to me. Rebuilt means new balls, new cones and new grease. The bearing surface in the hub itself was fine, and the weight of the valves was enough to turn the wheels after the rebuild. According to Grandpa's training logs, these hubs had run more than 130.000km at this time!)

[@loc9588]

@@turboseize haha, maybe you need to cycle harder! 9 speed is great but in my experience it definitively wears out. At least it’s cheap

[@turboseize]

@@loc9588 I may not be fast, but I am heavy and somewhat strong (former competetive rower). At least I manage to snap spokes and break rims regularly. ;-) Which is prove that Campagnolo products CAN break - I have 32-spoke Montreal 76 rim that has cracked around the spoke holes... Maybe taking this wheelset onto gravel wasn't the smartest idea, and maybe 25mm on gravel arent that prudent either. And at 110kg bodyweight, that might even have been stupid...

[@shrkys4]

Thanks for the Campy content Luis! I've just switched to Record 12 from 2006 Record 10 with about 30k+ miles on it on my Serotta Ti frame. Record 10 Levers were rebuilt and jockey wheels replaced a couple times, couple cassettes and a few chains over the years, that's it, trouble free for the most part. The Record 10 still has lots of life left and I'll put it on another frame I have stashed. The Record 12 has the same soul and feel for shifting and braking but it's a level above in smoothness and accuracy of front shifts and braking, it's sooo much better. I have another bike with Ultegra 11sp that I also enjoy how smooth and accurate the shifts are, but the option of multiple shifts in either direction is a game changer and I find myself riding almost exclusively on my Campy bike. I'm able to dump the front and rear simultaneously for quick climbing adjustments, never drops a chain!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you for sharing your experience with both the 10 and 12. I am glad to hear you are holding on to the 10... it is an amazing groupset👍🏾

[@LagunaRider1961]

I’m riding a mechanical Ultegra disc group set and love it and I love my bike which is not compatible with Di2 so I’m wondering if I eventually will need to buy some replacements parts and store them away in case I need them down the line. Your Campy set looks awesome! Maybe I’ll eventually look at switching over! Wishing you a safe and prosperous New Year!!

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Rob! Thank you and Happy New Year👍🏾

[@Paddystyx]

Excellent video.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Kevin!

[@MadelinePuckette]

fantastic. Thank you :) Also, clinchers for the win ;)

[@thegoodwheel]

👍🏾

[@lorenzobruttomesso1346]

Great Groupset - on my Pinarello K8s. Did have a failure with the front derailleur, and changed to Chorus instead❤

[@thegoodwheel]

That front mech failure has apparently been an issue. Mine failed and I had it warranteed. I can't remember what I used in the interim... either Centaur or Athena, but I never took it off.

[@DP-PhD]

I’ve been running record 12 mechanical rim for a couple of years now. Super reliable and a pleasure to use. Being picky, the only issue I have with the groupset is the ultratorque bottom bracket / bearing system. Don’t get me wrong it’s very smooth and in my hands lasted very well but, I assume due to the way the preload on the bearings is regulated, I have never been able to get it to be as free running / frictionless as previous ‘traditional’ Campagnolo systems.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you for sharing your experience David 👍🏾

[@joramvandervorst7715]

I have had the same trouble, a FSA crankset and bb solved that for my customer.

[@Blackwing2345635]

@@joramvandervorst7715 is it trouble though? I saw BBs that had exceptional run-out (when you push them without a chain and they spin without any external resistance and forces), but were not stiff, had strange behavior when you actually pedal... Can't say if they had actually more resistance under load (i doubt anyone can by bare legs), but you can think of bearing with and without grease. Empty bearing will run *MUCH* easier without load, but with load - greased one will be better in terms of resistance (not mentioning longer live and higher reliability). Ultratorque is not perfect, but resistance performance is not it's downside, as far as i know and could feel riding. And when we are talking about cartridge vs cups - cartridge will always have better run-out (giving good cartridge and straight frame ofc) just because it is one assembly.

[@iandickerson-sb6ui]

Thanks for the great review. I had been debating getting a new bike, but think instead I'll update my '90's steel bike which has '80's Super Record, with '23 Super Record and keep the old frame going.

[@thegoodwheel]

Sounds like a great project Ian👍🏾

[@DavidCasebeer-wf8by]

My oldest ride is a 1973 Mercian (531) Super Vigorelli track bike. While I don't race any more, it is a hoot to ride at the Atlanta Velodrome. I rode my Mercian Professional until the frame snapped at near 200,000 miles. The groupo was the original Nouvo Record to the end. I have used 10,11 and 12 Record since 2000, with no mechanical issues other than my silliness. I get 4-5000 miles of a 10/11 chain (yes I mic it and change at .5) much longer than my buddies other stuff. I am 68, 187 cm and 90 plus kilo.

[@barriem5318]

Great video. Nice bike!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks!

[@ggtelevision]

I was not wanting to go electric shift or abandon the Campy ergos from my 20 year old Record so when I built a new frame up, it was going to be Campy Record 12 Speed Mechanical. Being it was on a Trek Emonda SLR frame had to be disc, but hydraulics not so much as issue for me. Trek had no accomodation for Campy with the BB or front derailleur cable stop. Enduro had the BB solution, and a custom cable stop was fabbed for the frame. Compact with 11-32 for gearing. Along with a set of Bora WTO 33 disc. Great way to go. Has been flawless and exactly as I wanted. The Record and Chorus Groups are a great option right now.

[@thegoodwheel]

Agreed... and thanks for sharing about the custom solution for the Emonda cable stops👍🏾

[@thedronescene7474]

Hi Luis, Nice Video! I finished building my Moots RSL with Dura Ace Di2 Rim but honestly I have always wanted Capa EPS haha! I will wait and hopefully I should buy the EPS 12 Speed Rim by summer this year when prices cool down a bit. BTW, I am local ( Miami ) we should ride together sometime! My group here in Miami always do nice rides and occasionally we do rides to Key Largo and Key West, I can let you know and you are welcome to join us sometime :) . Our pace is 20~22 and Ave at the end is usually 19~21. We also never drop anyone, we ride at the pace of the slower rider.

[@thegoodwheel]

Moots is amazing bike! I would love to join you one day. Please let me have the info so I can plan it out👍🏾

[@simonsmith2794]

Thanks luis for another Great video but I believe Mavic were first to the electronic shifting gate 👍

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Simon! Thank you... Mavic Zapp if I remember correctly.

[@rayF4rio]

I love Campy. Been riding it since 1992 after coming from Shimano Sante (who remembers that 😁). But the search for a smoother ride on the very rough roads I now ride on (Philippines) as led me to some upcoming changes. I just ordered a Time ADHX with Sram Red - which will allow wider 32mm tires. This also means a change from Mechanical to Electronic shifting, Rim to Disc Brakes and Clincher/Tubes to Tubeless. I'll find out how I like all these changes when the bike comes in a few weeks. I chose Sram for the gearing (46/33 and 10-36) of less than 1:1 for the climbs, and my aging legs. But I'll keep my Campy 12 speed mechanical Infinito CV for racing and faster group rides.

[@thegoodwheel]

It is going to be interesting to see how you like all thise changes at once. Thanks for sharing👍🏾

[@dpledoone]

Great review Luis-I have been cycling my whole life and speak from a little experience- I refuse to buy disc brake bikes as they feel stuck in mud, I don’t do tubeless as there is no benefit, I don’t do batteries and I roll with 23’ Vittorias, not 25, not 28…I have 3 Campy Record bikes and have Never had a failure - one needs a good mechanic, but the replacement parts are a plus too. I love Ultegra mechanical too, but do not see a huge upgrade in Dura Ace and the latter has had some QC issues with their cranks.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts 👍🏾

[@jamesmoros1274]

I have campy 10, 11 & 12 speed. Love them all and they are all rim brakes.. all on Ti frames. I don’t like Disks they add complexity weight and are difficult to maintain. So I bought a few spare groupset for my future bike builds ☺️🇦🇺 cheers from Australia.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing that idea James... many have considered that option.

[@lukewalker1051]

You articulate it so well because you are smart. The bike industry relies on people buying their bikes not being critical thinking. All for profit. I tried electric shifting and I hated it. Don't have to pony up for Campagnolo Record 12s. I rode Campy for decades and always preferred it to Shimano DA. Sram Rival 22 is all you need with rim brakes. Great hood ergonomics unlike Shimano, very large paddle for shifting...and double tap is even better than having a thumb lever which declutters the hoods on Sram. The bike industry has gone mad. It is the BMW business model based upon profit. Your thinking is spot on.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing that Luke👍🏾

[@1ssll1]

Hi Luis, super review from you. Congrat! I own a Campy Chorus 12. The Chorus also can down by up to 5 sprockets in a single movement! Since 2 years on my bike, super groupset!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing that👍🏾

[@guidopesch2976]

I was always in love with road bikes due to their simplicty, low weight, and easy maintenance. For the benefit of seconds, a "clean lock" and not to forget a healthy EBIT I "get" more complexcity, additional weight, and "free" mechanic challenge. As a result the middle class bike went from 3.5k to a 5k / 19 lb level. Long story short, Shimano and SRAM are forcing me to consider Campagnolo to continue enjoying my beloved simplicty.

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing your experience Guido!

[@kevinfrost1579]

Luis excellent clarity of explanation both in words and visuals. Campagnolo deserve a real pat on the back for their 12 spd development most of all for ensuring all components are cross compatible across their ranges of 12 spd group sets. Ensuring new 12 spd is retro compatible so you can still use existing freehub 9,10, 11 spd wheelsets. Upping the biggest cog lowest gear on the cassette from 11-29 to now 11-32 and 11-34. Put a sub compact chainring on the front 48/32 and you’ve the ultimate in range of flexibility of this groupset. Add to that the difference between Super Record /Record /Chorus is a small percentage of material selection to save a small amount of grams but nigh on exactly identical technical performance. Any of them a winner. Clever old Campagnolo they truly know their customers and with this step seek to open up choice for riders, not curtail it. A refreshing contrast to moves in other sectors of the industry. Hope this brings them many new converts and success, as once tried most never revert elsewhere👏👏👏

[@thegoodwheel]

Well put Kevin👍🏾

[@martinjames672]

I've stopped at 10spd on 4 of my 6 bikes. One is 11spd SRAM and chains cassettes are noticeably quicker to wear. I have 3 shimano 10 groupsets - Deore/XT on mtb and 105 triple on my tourer. 2 x Campag on road bikes - 10spd Veloce/Centaur and 7spd Athena/Record (Eroica bike). I started riding ergo 8 spd Mirage in '93. Swapped out a Ultegra/DA dt group. Loved the feel of Campagnolo. But about 4 yrs ago due to fitness issues I was only using my 105 triple touring. I got to appreciate the silky Shimano change. I even raced on SRAM 10 speed Apex in France last September. To be honest, they are all good in their own way, they function well when tuned correctly. In my opinion it comes down to feel. My biggest gripe is cassettes starting with 11t - I never use this, even on a 50t chainset. I would prefer that road cassettes had more choice with a 12t up... regardless of number of speeds.

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi Martin, thanks for sharing. My 12-25 cassette 11speed is on of my favorite go to ratios👍🏾

[@dennisdose5697]

Just dug out my old 8 speed Chorus Litespeed this last summer. The Campy lever system really is nice. Also, the multiple detents in the front lever make the shifting setup far less sensitive and much more tolerant of cable stretch.

[@thegoodwheel]

That is a great combination of bike and grouppo👍🏾

[@dennisdose5697]

@@thegoodwheel thanks! I actually chose the chorus group over the record in part because I liked the style of the brakes better. Heard campy 8sp cassettes are very hard to find these days. Take care 😎.

[@Ghostina1]

I have everything on my DogmaF. Integrated Headset and Cables, Sram Red Axs Gruppo (with Rival STi s for ergonomics) and Discs ... Still happy!

[@thegoodwheel]

👍🏾

[@raymondherrick1942]

Good stuff, you got my attention.😎 ☮️

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for watching Raymond👍🏾

[@aluminati9918]

Excellent review, thanks! As an old Capy- dude I’m currently running the Record 12 Disc, best I have had ever. Brakes are super smooth. It’s a bit more maintenance heavy than Shimano in my experience. Your channel is very good BTW! Deserves more followers. 👍

[@thegoodwheel]

Thank you Aluminati! I appreciate that👍🏾

[@ronbell7920]

Small detail, I think Mavic produced the first electronic shifting system. Great video on Campy, long live mechanical shifting!

[@thegoodwheel]

Yes. The Zap. But it didn't really take off or shift the market (pun intended). Thanks for watching and sharing your insights👍🏾

[@hondasaurusrex6998]

Love your last statement-Campagnolo doesn't wear out, it breaks in. I'm kinda Campy snob.... proof.... my '87 Atala with a mix bag of Campy components that have been changed out through the years. And they all seem to work together. Did require some trips to the machine shop but only to cut the spacers on the 8 speed freewheel so my 10 speed shifter works😁.

[@thegoodwheel]

Nice! Thanks for sharing 👍🏾

[@rodscher28]

I'm a big fan of Campy for the last 20 years. Currently, I am running the mid-range Potenza, but really, I expect them to bring back and engineer forward an electronic groupset on the Chorus-level. Also a bit more out of the box-thinking when it comes to gearing. Otherwise, I'd probably be leaving for a Force Groupo, which gearing I like lot, especially the options it offers for tough mountain riding. And I'm getting older, too....Nice Bianchi!

[@thegoodwheel]

Thanks for sharing that rodscher28👍🏾

[@M2.Cycling]

as a new cyclist i never thought about campy since shimano and sram are the majors brands i see on everyones bike, but i am interested in trying it. i really like that dump feature, I only seen it on my buddys sram red electronic groupset.

[@thegoodwheel]

Hi M2, I think it's a good idea to get the feel and experience of Campy👍🏾

[@riccardovolpe4822]

totally, totally agree with you!

[@fiddleronthebike]

I'm riding Campagnolo Record/Super Record (11x) with rim brakes for more than 50000km and had never one single problem, only replacing cassettes, chains, brake pads aso; and before I rode Campagnolo C-Record (fristion shifting without index😎) 7x, 8x and 9x - for 20 years (don't even know the km's...) also without problems. And btw, the Record/Super Record rim brakes are by far the bestI know, in dry or wet conditions I can easily block the Bora carbon wheels with two fingers - and modulation is impressive, no need for discs with these! When I change to a newer group set I will buy Campa again! (only my TT-bike has SRAM etap because I wanted to have shifters on the base bar and the extensions as well, and back then that was not possible with Campa...)