There are times it seems that Shimano Di2 has become synonymous with electronic shifting – but it’s not the only player. In 2011 Campagnolo unveiled its EPS — Electronic Power Shift — though the Italian outfit had been working on electronic shifting as far back as 1992. This is a long gestation period by any standards, and one that let Shimano steal a serious march. But EPS is out there and it makes sense to test it on an all-Italian machine from another iconic marque.
The Idol has been in De Rosa’s ranks since the 1990s, when it was a stiff and agile aluminium racer. This 21st century incarnation is a different creature aimed at the gran fondo rider.
Though being Italian, of course, this isn’t going to mean a super-laid-back lazy-handling machine. They just don’t do it that way. Instead it’s based around only slightly shallow 72-degree parallel angles with a 597mm stack and 402mm reach. A sharp machine, yes, but not one that’s going to put you into a backbreaking position.
ADVERTISEMENT
The frame itself shows plenty of Italian brio. The down-tube has a flat leading edge with a triangular rear face, the top-tube arcs gently and transforms from flat to diamond shaped to flat again before it elegantly segues into the skinny arched seatstays. The deep asymmetric chainstays contribute to a solid feel on the road, while power transfer is impressive with no evident flex. This is balanced with a subtle smoothness when the roads roughen up, the Idol going about its business ruthlessly and efficiently, but without any unwanted noise or vibrations.
Campagnolo’s Chorus EPS group is a rare beast and one not often found on complete bikes, and there is a danger that Campag — once the king of the groupset jungle — could find itself marginalised. If that were the case it would be down to a lack of exposure rather than any technical shortcomings. Spend a few days riding EPS and it’s a set up you ignore at your peril.
You can read more at BikeRadar.com
via BikeRadar All the latest from BikeRadar.com http://ift.tt/2dVPNkH
No comments:
Post a Comment