I suppose it was only a matter of time. Campagnolo, the Italian component manufacturer, is bringing to market the first 12-speed road group, dubbed “Movement 12.”
The new Record and Super Record cassettes bring some tight jumps between cogs via a chain that is only marginally narrower. It’s also lighter, but Campagnolo says it’s stronger too. And those 12 cogs fit on existing 11-speed freehub bodies. Cassette gearing is available in an 11-29 version as well as an 11-32 version. At least for now, the 12-speed system is only available at the Record and Super Record level.
The gear range is the same as 11-speed systems, but there’s one more stop along the way which allows the rider to maintain a more consistent cadence over varying terrain and through pacing changes. Of course, you need new Ergopower levers (with improved ergonomics) and a new set of derailleurs to accommodate the 12-speed system as well. And while they were at it Campy gave the Super Record and Record cranksets a makeover. The four-bolt chainring system remains, but the crankarm has been redesigned for aerodynamic benefits.
Both a rim brake and disc brake version of the group will be available. Pricing has not yet been announced, but expect expensive for Record and prepare to sell a limb for Super Record.