Campagnolo are closing in on a release date for the new-generation hidden battery and control centre for their EPS electronic gear systems.
The new version – which will replace the bulky component often mounted on the down tube, by the bottom bracket – will bring parity between Campagnolo and their rivals, Shimano, who have already commercialised a pen-shaped Dura-Ace 11-speed groupset battery that fits into seat tubes.
One bike at the 2013 Tour de France has been carrying the new Campagnolo component – Jurgen Van Den Broeck’s (Lotto-Belisol) Ridley Dean FAST training rig (the race bike is yet to feature the technology). The battery is housed in a recess in the top tube, behind the steering assembly.
Erik Miorini, Campagnolo’s race team assistant, told BikeRadar that the battery could find its way onto the pros’ competition bikes before the Vuelta a Espana, as it is very near completion. He said some minor updates to the software are being introduced to improve shifting, but that overall performance will be similar to that of the current EPS unit.
Other frame manufacturers are already prepared for the development. The new Bianchi Oltre XR2 – being ridden by the Vacansoleil-DCM team – has a port in the frame for recharging the battery, which will be housed in the seat tube.
For more information on Campagnolo EPS see www.campagnolo.com.