2012 sees the release of Campagnolo’s redesigned carbon 10 speed Centaur groupset, a groupset that Campagnolo say features many of the technical advances found on their premium 11 speed groupsets but at a considerably more affordable price. Designed for cyclists searching for a groupset that offers durability and power but more importantly the Centaur is designed to provide riders with impeccable shifting, all of this ensures that the Campagnolo’s 2012 Centaur groupset is definitely set to be one of the best groupsets available on the market this year. Included in the 2012 Centaur groupset is Campagnolo well known Ergopower controls combine the brake and gear levers in a aerodynamic, ergonomic design which is not only more comfortable but provides crisp, smooth shifting throughout each ratio. The Ergopower controls when combined with the lighter, stiffer carbon front and rear derailleurs further enhances the shifting performance of this remarkable groupset. The Centaur 10 speed cassette, with the two largest sprockets attached on aluminium carriers, not only offers cyclists a wider range of ratios, but a stiffer cassette ensuring faster acceleration up steeper inclines. While the carbon cassettes’ new tooth shape means faster, softer shifts throughout each ratio. Centaur’s D-Skeleton brake callipers with black anodized finish not only look the part but play the part also reducing the overall stopping distance of a race bike in the wettest weather conditions. Also featured on the Centaur groupset is Campagnolo’s Power Torque System designed crankset, the crankset’s Micro Precision shifting teeth promise reactive shifting while also promising to effectively transform a cyclists efforts into speed.

But while Campagnolo explain the main focus of Centaur groupset is impeccable shifting, the high quality crankset and brakes do mean that Centaur offers more than just fantastic shifting and is a fantastic alternative to more expensive groupsets on 2012’s market.

One of the more advanced groupsets for fitness and sport riders, the latest Tiagra has been re-mastered with a more ergonomic and performance design. The Tiagra features Shimano’s bottom bracket with BB cups, enhancing the durability and smoothest of the bottom bracket. The crankset of the Tiagra is available as a compact double or triple, both of which are compatible with 9-speed Super Narrow HG chains and Hollowtech II type bottom bracket cups. This compatibility means that riders have the opportunity to enjoy a more accurate and smooth transition between ratios.

The Shimano Tiagra also features a Shimano 9 Spd cassette, weighing 270 grams, it features a HyperGlide design. This HyperGlide design ensures that riders can enjoy fast, accurate and smooth shifts. While the Tiagras STI levers Mega9 design further enhances the Tiagra, for more precision shifting. While the brakes of this fantastic groupset have been constructed using a lightweight aluminium calliper design, with a tough anodized finish. The careful construction of the Tiagra brakes results in a uniquely hard-wearing braking system, which our testers noted as feeling smooth and responsive.

The front derailleur is 9-speed compatible and delivers precise, smooth and quick changes making it one of the most professional components of the Tiagra and an ideal option for passionate cyclists. Similarly, the rear derailleur is also 9-speed compatible and offers riders reliability and precision.

Shimano Tiagra groupset is often overshadowed by Shimano’s other leading groupset the 105 and while the 105 is fantastic groupset, the Tiagra also possess some pioneering and professional features. Part of Shimano’s top range, the Tiagra possesses its own personality and is ideal for riders who seek pioneering and different engineering features as well as a more sleek design and more enhanced components.

The cassette of this impressive groupset has been created using a combination of steel and titanium, in particular when creating the sprockets. Campagnolo have explained that the Record cassette includes an Ultra-Shift teeth shift design, which our testers noted did help create smooth and precise up shifting. While the Ultra-Shift sprocket synchronisation design ensures that the sprockets have been carefully positioned to make shifting quick and more concise. Other technical design improvements to the cassette include a support frame for the 2nd and 3rd sprocket triplet, which helps to increase the cassettes torsional rigidity, as well as a nickel-chrome surface treatment introduced to reduce the chain/sprocket friction.

The shifters of the Campagnolo Record groupset are also impressive; the levers feel comfortable due to the Vari-cushion hoods. The Ultra- Shift design offer greater ease of movement and ensure the levers feel light, while the Ultra-Shift exclusive mechanism enables riders effective 3 sprocket up shifting and 5 sprocket down shifting in a single stroke. The double curvature break lever enables responsive braking in all weather conditions. Overall, our testers stated that the levers were one of the most comfortable, responsive and durable levers they had ever tried.

The design of the Record’s crankset is eye catching, while the new teeth design and construction offers a high performance shifting. The new teeth design and Campagnolo’s X.P.S.S extreme performance shifting system chainrings, guarantees that riders will enjoy precise, fast and easy shifting. Impressively, the crankset is also extremely light due to its unidirectional carbon fibre Ultra-Hollow crank and low weight bottom bracket. But while the crankset is light our testers commented that it was extremely rigid and effectively transferred power enabling riders to reach impressive speeds.

The derailleurs have also undergone some improvements, the front derailleur has a carbon cage construction and a Z-shape inner cage, while the Exclusive M-Brace Campagnolo geometry derailleur design guarantees rigidity, reliable and precision shifting. While the rear derailleur has been described by Campgnolo as the soul of the new 11-speed Record transmission, constructed with an aluminium lower and upper body, it is light, guarantees less friction and more precision shifting. The ceramic ball bearings of the derailleur significantly reduced the amount of friction, whilst also ensuring an unbelievable amount of smoothness. Several testers noted that the rear derailleur worked perfectly, even after excessive use.

The Record braking system offers riders two braking options and a noticeable level of symmetry and strength. The front brake stirrup possesses a dual pivot for extra braking power, while the rear is a single pivot, as riders don’t require the same level of power at the rear. This unique differentiated design offers a greater level of braking power modulation, while the pads are hard-wearing. Overall the breaking system of the Record is impressive and a fantastic alternative to other braking systems.

These features of the Record are why this groupset has become synonymous within the world of racing. The components advanced designs; features and use of high quality materials mean that the Record is a technological masterpiece.

Arguably one of the best groupsets available today, SRAM have eliminated any previous minor problems to create a faultless new Red groupset. One of the most impressive aspects of the SRAM Red is its shifting performance. Fitted with Double Tap levers, which are notably stronger and longer, the new carbon shift paddle is larger, while both the brake and shift lever are reach adjustable, ensuring that they are easier to manage and significantly more comfortable. The brake lever adjustments are easy to undertake due to the Allen head bolt, although the shift lever adjustment is slightly more complex in comparison. With a variety of upgrades, in particular the new Zero Loss technology, the Red delivers fluid shifting throughout every ratio. The lever throw is significantly less than SRAM’s Rival and Force groupsets, ensuring that riders can achieve faster and more concise shifts.

The front shifting of the Red groupset works well. SRAM have equipped the Red with an outer chainring trim position, removing the inner trim position. The design of this front shifting however does create cross- chain rub in the inner ring; one of the only minor faults of the Red groupset. The new Red crankset possesses a carbon over aluminium spine construction with a sleek and narrow profile, for an impressive level of rigidity. While the GXP bottom bracket is fitted with standard durable and maintenance free ceramic bearings.

The front derailleurs are one of the biggest changes to the new Red groupset. The front derailleurs now feature a titanium cage, which has reduced the overall weight of the groupset by 30 grams. While SRAM’s have ensured that the Red derailleur is compatible with both compact and standard cranksets, with the derailleurs working perfectly on either option. Although some testers commented on the derailleurs unusual shape and the flexiness of the new titanium cage, it works impeccably even under intensive power. The rear derailleur possesses a carbon fibre inner link and aluminium outer link, both of which reduce the weight of the component by 31 grams, while also ensuring that it functions perfectly. The introduction of ceramic bearing-equipped pulleys does reduce the amount of friction in spin.

Another great feature of SRAM’s Red is the new OG-1090 PowerDome cassette, which has been constructed using pioneering methods. Created using a single forged form of steel, which is heated then shaped using complex CNC-guided machines, the lightness of the cassette is created because the cassette is hollow, yet the thick aluminium backing ensures that power is effectively transferred into the freehub body. Overall, the PowerDome design does help increase the rigidity of the cassette, while the OpenGlide tooth profiling design ensures relatively smooth and precise shifting.

The braking callipers of the latest Red groupset are truly remarkable. The new callipers now possess the suitable amount of spring tension and center adjustments, while the triangulated upper arm adds rigidity. Many testers stated that they could feel the difference the new callipers make, offering riders powerful, precise and controlled braking.

The success of the 2009 Red groupset has meant that SRAM have also released a limited edition of the new Red groupset. While it is fitted with the same features and offering riders the same benefits, the limited edition Red groupset has undergone a complete redesign to pay homage to the Tour de France. Every part of the original black anodized finish has been transformed to slick silver, red graphics become yellow, while SRAM’s 1090 R2C and 900 aero shift levers will also feature a black-yellow makeover. The SRAM Red is perhaps one of the most ultimate groupsets ever produced.

One of the most notable new changes all of our testers instantly noticed was the Ultegra’s crankset. The HollowTech II 10-speed design possesses the perfect equilibrium of light weight and rigidity. The hollow outer chainring has a HollowGlide design, which offers riders a vast amount of improvement in the level of stiffness, reducing the overall amount of flex as well as greatly improving the cranksets shifting performance. The chainring teeth have also been improved and when coupled with the CN7900 and CN6700 chains, riders can enjoy a more efficient power transfer. Impressively, the Shimano Ultegra also offers a variety of different chainring options and crank arm lengths so that every rider can achieve a more efficient and comfortable fit. The Hollowtech II integrated bottom bracket has also been revitalised, creating an optimum level of stiffness, while the seal design of the bottom bracket ensures minimal bearing interface for increased strength and smooth rolling.

Another notable change many testers recognised was the brakes of the Ultegra 6700 series. The carbon brake levers have been completely redesigned; the lever’s design, with its extra surface area allows riders to shift more easily. While the brake lever pivot position has been altered to allow for more leverage, enabling riders to obtain better controlled braking. The brakes of the Ultegra have also been dramatically redesigned, in particular the increased brake arch allows for a more linear response. The internal cable routing reduced the amount of friction, while the brake shoe has been constructed using a new compound for enhanced stopping power in wet conditions.

The cassette of the Ultegra 6700 series is a dramatic improvement on the 6600 series. It features Shimano’s pioneering HyperGlide sprocket design, ensuring that the sprockets are lightweight and durable, as well as possess an improved teeth shape design for more accurate shifting.

Another notable redesign of the Ultegra is the rear derailleur, the wide design and reduced friction of the derailleur ensures that riders can enjoy smooth and accurate shifting. While the redesign has also meant that the derailleur is also wide gear ratio compatible.

Shimano have invested a large amount of time and effort into theUltegra and it clearly shows. It is one of the most aesthetically pleasing as well as performance enhancing and durable groupsets, creating a very impressive groupset that will soon become the benchmark for other cycling manufacturers.

Since its release the XTR is considered in the cycling world as perfection, the latest XTR groupset is available in trail and race models, each possessing unique and pioneering features. One of the most notable differences in these new versions is the removal of the pinch bolt system, which has been replaced with a splined spindle, held tight with a large securing bolt. The bearings of the new XTR are held in adjustment with a threaded collar, for more a lucid crankset. The crankset features an optimised design creating the perfect equilibrium of weight and rigidity, while the new carbon and titanium composite chainring design ensures that it is extremely hard-wearing. Shimano’s Hyperdrive technology ensures that the XTR offers the best front shifting design available to mountain bikers.

The rear derailleur is extremely sturdy and is available in low normal and top normal systems, with either medium or long jockey wheel cage lengths. The low normal option enables riders to use Dual Control shifters and the top normal option for the triggers, with these options riders are able to find a specification that meets there personal needs. The front derailleurs possess a wide link design for improved shifting performance as well as new positioning screws make it easy to access for different frame designs.

Shimano offer cable or hydraulic versions for their braking systems, which can be controlled through the XTR’s I-Spec brake and shift lever, which looks good and offers a comfortable fit for every cyclist. The braking system of the XTR includes V-Brake systems which possesses a patented Parallel Push mechanism that effectively applies a balanced amount of pressure on the rims for more controlled braking. While the XTR disc brakes have a single forged mono-body construction creating the perfect balance of rigidity and weight. More impressive is the new XTR Ice Tech cooling technology for their disc brakes. These Ice Tech brake pads and rotors have been proven to significantly lower the heat build-up in the disc braking system for a consistently better braking system.

The new XTR also includes two types of SPD pedals, one model specifically developed for cross country usage with an extremely light design, while the other is ideal for mountain riders with a wider platform for an improved grip. XTR groupset also offers a variety of different wheel options, each equipped with a new scandium rim technology and spoke pattern, creating a more lightweight and durable wheel.

The HyperGlide 10-speed cassette sprockets include a special tooth profile for HG-X chains and Shadow rear derailleur. Overall, the new XTR cassette possess a durable and rigid 2-piece spider arm structure, ensuring that it offers riders quick, smooth and precise shifting.

The XTR is a beautifully designed groupset. It effortlessly combines sleek designs and the latest technological advances to create a truly professional mountain bike groupset, making the new XTR the best groupset you can purchase today.

The aspect of this fantastic groupset our testers noticed was the sleek black anodized finish, which makes the Rival appearance an easy contender with more expensive models. There are a variety of features included on the Rival which make it one of the leaders in the mid- range market. In particular, Rival’s Double Tap Shift Levers, many of our testers stated that they were undeniably the most comfortable they have ever used. The adjustability of the lever guarantees that riders can shift perfectly, while the option to place the cables under the bar tape improves the aerodynamics of a rider’s bike.

The brakes of the Rival were another fantastic element of this groupset. The careful design and engineering of the brakes meant they were easy to install and are powerful, offering a fantastic level of modulation. The brake pads of the Rival are effective and durable compared to other mid-range brakes.

The rear derailleur of the Rival is unbelievable with many testers commenting that it performs far better than any other entry-level derailleur they have used. The shifts are smooth and extremely accurate, making it a fantastic asset when racing. Similarly, the front derailleur is also precise and quick, while the trim adjustment ensures the chain can be effectively placed without any chance of chain rub.

The crankset of the Rival is one of the only components to have undergone a complete redesign. The new crankset of the Rival is one of the lightest many of our testers have used, yet the rigidity of the crankset, in particular the OpenCore technology used to construct the crank arms, meant that every aspect of power was effectively transferred to the road. The PowerGlide chainrings are extremely sturdy and are able to cope under stress or excessive use. And lastly, the cassette has been described by our testers as quite and accurate. SRAM’s Rival cassette is also extremely strong, effectively withstanding excessive use.

Every aspect of SRAM’s Rival has been carefully designed and created using the latest methods and materials. This dedication to creating a fantastic mid-range groupset has undoubtedly been achieved in SRAM’s Rival.

The most revolutionary aspect of the Chorus is the new Ultra-Drive 11-speed cassette. The 11-speed cogs have a thinner design and is significantly stiffer and lighter compared to the previous Chorus models. The teeth of the cassette have been carefully designed to reduce the amount of stress on the chain, ensuring that the chain is long lasting. Our testers revealed that the 11th cog of the Chorus is a fantastic addition, explaining that the efficient shifting throughout the gears to the 11th cog allowed riders to maintain a steady cadence in difficult climbs.

Another impressive feature of the newly remodelled Chorus is the derailleurs. The rear derailleur has received a sleek makeover, yet while the carbon composite outer link is still included it does now possess a wider design and longer pivot pins, which helps to improve the durability. While the introduction of the vibration absorbing pulley helped to create quiet shifts whilst riding. The front derailleur design has also been altered on the new model to ensure it is able to effectively resist the high lateral forces exerted when shifting to the larger chainring. While tests were inconclusive as to whether it was any faster than previous models, this component remains extremely reliable.

The crankset of the Chorus has been created using carbon with aluminium chainrings, both of which have an anodised surface for an ESP (Enhanced Shifting Performance) Actuation System. Our testers noticed that this new technology helped to move the chain to the larger chainring more efficiently especially when shifting under pressure, stating that this system did ensure the crankset shifted quietly, smoothly and precisely.

The brakes of the Chorus possess a newly improved pad compound for a more advanced braking system. While the introduction of one model based on its ‘differential system’ braking option offers riders a single pivot on the rear calliper and a powerful dual pivot on the front, ensuring that riders receive the right level of braking power in the right areas. This new combination is excellent guaranteeing riders enjoy powerful, yet controlled braking.

Campagnolo have also redesigned their fantastic Ultra-Shift levers, the newly modelled versions effectively combine light action of the outgoing Chorus QS with the ability to lower the front derailleur significantly in order to eliminate any chain rub. The dual-density Vari-Cushion rubber hoods have had a slight redesign, as have the inner levers making it easier to grip the levers more comfortably. Many of our testers commented that the newly remodelled inserts were smooth and flexible and a fantastic new addition to the Chorus groupset.

The slight remodelling of certain aspects as well as the introduction of new features makes the new Chorus a fantastic groupset and a perfect example of why the Chorus is part of Campagnolo’s high quality range.

One of the SRAM’s Force most impressive aspects is its shifting performance. The levers, modelled from Red’s levers, the only noticeable changes are the new unidirectional finish on the carbon brake lever blades and sleeker graphics. The levers on the Force possess an ergonomic design with reach-adjustable brake lever and longer blade design makes it easier when braking from the drops. The shift paddles on the lever are perfectly sized, therefore easy to use from the drops and the hoods. The Zero-Loss shifter internals only requires a short lever movement when changing to the larger cog, while the other lever without Zero-Loss still offers short throws. Although some testers commented that the shift levers felt small compared to other brands, the well-known SRAM spring tensions make the levers encouragingly firm.

The rear shifting performance of the new Force model has been slightly developed compared to the previous model, primarily to adjust to the new PG-1070 cassette, and is impeccable. The new PowerGlide has included several teeth that were omitted on the previous OpenGlide design, ensuring that the Force offers riders smooth and quick shifts. The most noticeable improvement in the remodelled Force is the sound quality, it is noticeably quieter and smoother, effectively silencing past critics of SRAM’s Force groupset.

The front shifting performance is good with extra rigid SPR outer rings, although a few testers noted that compared to other manufacturers outer rings SRAM Force requires a little more refinement.

While new brake callipers created using aluminium forgings and a new heavily triangulated upper arm and brake pads by SwissStop, the Force’s overall power has dramatically improved. Riders can feel confident with these brakes, knowing that they offer concise and powerful braking in all weather conditions.

The crankset of the new Force also features new updates; in particular the crank arms are now created using unidirectional carbon with an internal alloy spine. The rigidity of the new Force remains the same as the previous models, ensuring that riders can enjoy a solid feeling underfoot and an effective amount of power transfer between rider and the road. The most noticeable difference in the Force is the new BB30 variant which is extremely rigid whilst also reducing the cranksets overall weight by an impressive 145 grams.

The impressive and high quality features of the SRAM Force and low weight means that riders can enjoy all of the latest technological advances of this groupset but at a much more affordable price.

There is no doubt that the Deore XT groupset has been designed to meet the needs of cross country, trail, mountain riders, making it one of the most versatile groupsets available on the market today. Shimano have also included additional features ideal for trekking cyclists. Almost every part of the new XT has been redesigned and improved; only the chain and cassette components retain their original design.

The HollowTech II crankset on the new XT is available in two different versions, the FC-T781 (chain case compatible) and the FC-T780 (not chain case compatible), both include a chain guard. Also, two different two-ring models, the 38-26T option ideal for trail riders, while the 40- 28T option is perfect for racers. Shimano have also introduced a new XT lever which allows for easy conversion between three and two-ring setups.

The rear derailleurs have a new Shadow design, which has been specially created for trail rather than race riders. The rear derailleurs have been developed using a double servo-construction, which has greatly improved the adjustability and weather durability of the derailleur. The new design of the rear derailleur has also ensured that it remains extremely close to the cassette sprockets, guaranteeing that riders can enjoy easier and smoother changes throughout the ratios.

An impressive new feature of the XT is the introduction of V-Brakes and Servo Wave disc brakes with three finger levers, specifically designed for trekking use. The XT also features the XTR Ice Tech technology, so the new XT model will also benefit from cooling and a one-way bleed system as well as a three layered structure of aluminium and stainless steel. This pioneering technology and construction helps to reduce the surface temperature of the rotor, preventing any fading. Overall this technology helps to increase braking power of the new XT by 25 percent while also improving its heat dissipation.

A specific introduction for trekking cyclists is the new XT pedal; this has been specifically designed for trekking use, with an SPD binding and flat platform both included on the pedal.

There is no doubt that Shimano have carefully considered every aspect of the Deore XT, using high quality components and careful design Shimano have created a fantastic groupset that is ideal for just about every type of cyclist.