Electronic vs. mechanical groupsets

What are the advantages of electronic shifting?

Electronic groupsets are very much in vogue right now – that's for sure! Both in the competitive and in the hobby sector, more and more road bike enthusiasts are opting for the more comfortable system. But what are the benefits? Is electronic shifting really so much better that it justifies the higher purchase price? 

One thing should be said: Sentences like "Once you've tried it, you’ll never go back" are heard more and more often in the road cycling scene. Anyone who has given the Dura-Ace Di2 or Red eTap AXS groupsets a try is amazed by the added comfort – and for many cyclists, the pure joy of use justifies the higher price. 

Now in detail: Simplon has been installing electronic groupsets on bicycles since 2010. And there are several good reasons for this. One main argument is that you can change gears from different locations on the handlebars – like drops and tops – without much effort. Sounds negligible at first. But anyone who has ever sat in the saddle for longer periods of time and wants to conserve as much energy as possible will be happy about being able to change gears simply by tapping a button with their fingertip. The energy expenditure is reduced considerably.

By the way: Electronic shifting is extremely convenient, especially for smaller hands. After all, frequent braking and shifting can often be hard on the hands and wrists.

Another advantage: The shifting process is much more precise. The rider does not have to worry about having to readjust gears – because the shift motor takes care of that. The best chain line is automatically selected, so the infamous "intermediate gear" on the front derailleur no longer needs to be used. Even those who pedal at full wattage benefit from flawless shifting – for instance, when riding uphill.  

Last but not least, it’s the appearance of the road bike that benefits from electronic shifting. At least one annoying shift cable on the handlebars is eliminated. The wireless SRAM version looks even cleaner. 

The only downside: The battery needs to be charged regularly. However, the systems are so economical that the battery charge usually lasts for many thousands of shifting operations. 

Pros and cons at a glance

Which groupset manufacturers are there?

Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo: These are the three top dogs among groupset manufacturers. Each one has a wide range of mechanical and electronic systems – all with their own unique technology. 

Overview of the best groupsets by Shimano and SRAM 

Simplon uses only the best components for its high-end road bikes. Among them is the flagship and top-of-the-line among road bike groupsets: the Dura-Ace groupset by Shimano. The electronic Di2 version features wires instead of shift cables. A rechargeable battery supplies the necessary power for two small servomotors that change gears at the touch of a button via the front and rear derailleurs. The Dura-Ace is most often found on professional bikes at the Tour de France. No wonder, since it boasts a low weight, maximum precision, and a butter-smooth shifting performance.

The American premium model is the Red (eTap) AXS road bike groupset by SRAM – the lightest complete groupset on the market. Whether in the classic mechanical or in the fully wireless eTap version – SRAM offers high-end at its highest level.
 

Do you have any more questions about how to find the right groupset? Contact us or a dealer near you! We will be happy to help you!

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