Campagnolo are showcasing their long-in-development Tech Lab 11 electronic drivetrain at this year's Eurobike show. The componentry level is equal to that of Super Record 11, so expect all-titanium hardware, carbon fibre and ceramic bearings throughout.
Powering the electronic side of things is a lithium-ion polymer battery with comparable range figures to Shimano's already-established Di2 systems. The cabling has a Kevlar braid outer, which Campagnolo say eliminates the possibility of damage to the internal wiring in the event of the cables being stretched or pulled, whether that's caused by poor fitting or a crash.
The shifters use a similar setup to Campagnolo's Ergolevers. While the thumb-operated lever sits in the same place as on previous mechanical versions, it has a flatter shape with a defined kinked profile, as it doesn’t require the same amount of mechanical movement.
All-up weight, including mechanical parts and battery, is expected to be around 68g lower than Shimano’s flagship Dura-Ace Di2 electronic system. The news we were waiting for is pricing and availability; while prices remain unconfirmed, the drivetrain is said to be in final testing and should be in shops by spring 2012.
The down tube mounted lithium-poly battery is said to give Campagnolo's Tech Lab 11 system comparable range to Shimano Di2
