Groupsets

What are Groupsets?

A groupset forms the heart of every modern road bike and includes all components responsible for propulsion and shifting. It consists of shifters, derailleurs (front and rear), crankset, bottom bracket, chain, cassette, and brakes. The three major manufacturers Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo dominate the market and offer groupsets for different performance levels and budgets.

The choice of the right groupset has enormous impact on shifting performance, weight, maintenance requirements, and ultimately on the riding experience. While professional teams exclusively use high-end groupsets, hobby and amateur riders can choose from a wide range, from entry-level groups to electronic top models.

The Three Major Manufacturers Compared

Shimano

The Japanese market leader Shimano enjoys the widest distribution worldwide and offers the right solution for every requirement with its product range from Claris to Dura-Ace. Shimano groupsets are characterized by precise, smooth shifting performance and high reliability. The electronic Di2 technology (Digital Integrated Intelligence) is considered extremely mature and low-maintenance.

Shimano Hierarchy (ascending):

• Claris (Entry-level, 8-speed)
• Sora (Hobby, 9-speed)
• Tiagra (Entry-level road bike, 10-speed)
• 105 (Ambitious, 11-/12-speed)
• Ultegra (Semi-professional, 11-/12-speed, mechanical/Di2)
• Dura-Ace (Professional, 11-/12-speed, mechanical/Di2)

Shimano relies on a proven shifter design with separate levers for upshifting and downshifting. The latest generation offers 12-speed cassettes and wireless radio technology in the Di2 version. Compatibility between different Shimano generations is generally very good.

SRAM

The American manufacturer SRAM has set new standards with the introduction of electronic eTap technology. The revolutionary concept dispenses with cables and uses wireless radio connections between components. SRAM shifting is known for its crisp, direct shifting actions and the intuitive DoubleTap shifter design.

SRAM Hierarchy (ascending):

• Apex (Entry-level, 11-speed)
• Rival (Ambitious, 12-speed, mechanical/eTap)
• Force (Semi-professional, 12-speed, mechanical/eTap)
• Red (Professional, 12-speed, eTap)

The DoubleTap system uses a single shifter lever for both shifting directions – short press shifts up, long press shifts down. The eTap AXS technology offers not only wireless shifting but also extensive customization options via a smartphone app. SRAM was a pioneer in 12-speed cassettes and offers particularly wide ranges with XDR freehub technology.

Campagnolo

The Italian traditional brand Campagnolo enjoys high esteem especially in Europe and stands for exclusivity, Italian design, and precise mechanics. Campagnolo groupsets are particularly visually appealing and are often preferred by enthusiasts and purists. The shifting performance is considered very precise, although compatibility with other manufacturers is limited.

Campagnolo Hierarchy (ascending):

• Centaur (Entry-level, 11-speed)
• Potenza (Ambitious, 11-/12-speed)
• Chorus (Semi-professional, 12-speed, mechanical/EPS)
• Record (Professional, 12-speed, mechanical/EPS)
• Super Record (Top professional, 12-speed, EPS)

Campagnolo uses an Ergopower shifter design with its own thumb-lever logic. The electronic EPS version (Electronic Power Shift) offers reliable shifting performance and was completely redesigned in 2023. Campagnolo was the first manufacturer to use 12-speed cassettes for road bikes.

Mechanical vs. Electronic Shifting

Mechanical Shifting

Mechanical groupsets are based on cables that transfer tension to the derailleurs through lever movements. They are proven, reliable, and offer direct haptic feedback. The biggest advantage lies in their robustness and simple maintainability – a broken cable can be fixed on the road with simple tools.

However, mechanical systems require regular readjustments, as cables stretch over time or dirt enters the outer housings. Shifting quality can be affected by weather conditions. For beginners, hobby riders, and touring enthusiasts, mechanical groupsets are often the better choice – they are more cost-effective and easier to repair in an emergency.

Electronic Shifting

Electronic groupsets use small electric motors in the derailleurs that are precisely activated at the push of a button. The advantages are enormous: Shifting is lightning-fast and buttery smooth, independent of cable length or friction. Readjustment is practically never required, as the motors always reach exactly the same position.

Modern systems such as Shimano Di2, SRAM eTap AXS, and Campagnolo EPS also offer intelligent features:

• Automatic Trim Function prevents chain rub on the front derailleur
• Synchronized Shift automatically shifts front and rear synchronously for optimal chainline
• Multi-Shift enables multiple gears with one button press
• Customization allows individual assignment of shift buttons via app
• Battery Monitoring warns in time before battery runs out

The main disadvantage is the significantly higher cost – electronic groupsets cost 30-50% more than mechanical counterparts. Additionally, you must remember to regularly charge/change the battery. In case of complete system failures, repair on the road is hardly possible.

Groupset Hierarchies and Applications

Entry-Level Groupsets (500-800 Euros)

Shimano Claris & Sora, SRAM Apex, Campagnolo Centaur

These groupsets are aimed at beginners and price-conscious riders. They offer solid shifting performance with 8-11 speeds and are robustly built. Weight is higher than more expensive groupsets, and materials are often aluminum instead of carbon or titanium. For occasional riders, commuters, and fitness cyclists, they are completely sufficient.

Mid-Range Groupsets (800-1500 Euros)

Shimano Tiagra & 105, SRAM Rival, Campagnolo Potenza

The price-performance ratio is best in this segment. Shimano's 105 is considered the "sweet spot" – it offers 90% of the performance of Ultegra at a significantly lower price. These groupsets are ideal for ambitious hobby riders, club members, and anyone who regularly rides longer tours or Gran Fondos. Many professionals train with 105 groupsets to preserve equipment.

Semi-Professional Groupsets (1500-2500 Euros)

Shimano Ultegra (mechanical/Di2), SRAM Force (mechanical/eTap), Campagnolo Chorus/Record

This is where the high-performance range begins with significantly reduced weight, optimized ergonomics, and noticeably more precise shifting. Carbon components reduce weight, and electronic variants offer professional features. These groupsets are the choice for ambitious amateurs, licensed riders, and anyone who wants to get the best out of their bike without paying the last professional premium.

Professional Groupsets (2500-4500 Euros)

Shimano Dura-Ace (mechanical/Di2), SRAM Red (eTap), Campagnolo Super Record (EPS)

The top groupsets from manufacturers are optimized for professional use: maximum stiffness, minimal weight, perfect ergonomics, and absolutely reliable shifting performance under all conditions. Exotic materials such as titanium screws and carbon chainrings are used here. The weight difference to the next cheaper groupset is often only 100-200 grams – hardly relevant for hobby riders, but decisive for professionals.

Components of a Groupset in Detail

Shifters (STI, DoubleTap, Ergopower)

The shifters, integrated into the brake levers, are the interface between rider and shifting. Shimano's STI system (Shimano Total Integration) uses separate levers: The brake lever can be moved sideways for upshifting, a small lever behind the brake lever shifts down.

SRAM's DoubleTap system is more minimalist: A single lever behind the brake lever – short press shifts up, long press shifts down. Campagnolo's Ergopower uses a thumb lever on the inside for one direction, a lever behind the brake lever for the other.

In electronic groupsets, the "levers" are actually just small buttons or toggles that send electrical signals. The ergonomics and positioning of the switches are crucial for fatigue-free shifting on long rides.

Derailleurs (Front and Rear)

The rear derailleur is the workhorse of the groupset. It must be able to shift precisely between up to 12 cogs and simultaneously keep the chain under tension. Modern derailleurs feature cages made of carbon-reinforced plastic or aluminum and precisely mounted jockey wheels. The length of the cage determines the maximum gear range.

The front derailleur shifts between the 2 chainrings (modern groupsets increasingly dispense with triple). Electronic derailleurs automatically trim the position to prevent chain rub – a major advantage over mechanical systems.

Crankset and Chainrings

The crankset transfers the pedaling motion to the chain. Modern cranksets are milled from carbon or aluminum and optimized for maximum stiffness at minimal weight. Chainrings are typically 50/34 (compact) or 52/36 (standard) for road bikes.

Professional groupsets often use individually replaceable chainrings, while entry-level groupsets use fixed chainring sets. The bottom bracket connects the crankset to the frame and must withstand high forces and thousands of revolutions.

Cassette and Chain

The cassette (rear cog set) typically offers gear ratios from 11-28, 11-30, or 11-32 teeth in 11- or 12-speed systems. Mountainous routes require larger cassettes for easier gears. Professional cassettes use titanium cogs for weight savings.

The chain must perfectly match the cassette and groupset – 11-speed chains are narrower than 10-speed chains. High-end chains use special coatings for reduced wear and better shifting performance. Chain length must be precisely adjusted.

Brakes

Although technically often considered a separate category, brakes belong to the groupset. Modern road bikes increasingly use hydraulic disc brakes instead of traditional rim brakes. Disc brakes offer:

• Significantly better braking performance in wet conditions
• Consistent performance independent of rim wear
• Less hand force required
• Better modulation and controllability

Buying Guide: Which Groupset Suits Me?

Checklist for Groupset Selection

• Set budget – How much do I want/can I invest?
• Define purpose – Hobby, training, competition, touring?
• Estimate mileage – How many km/year do I ride?
• Consider terrain – Flat, hilly, or alpine?
• Mechanical or electronic? – Preference for maintenance vs. performance?
• Manufacturer preference? – Shimano, SRAM, or Campagnolo?
• Check compatibility – Does the groupset fit my frame?
• Future-proofing – Are spare parts available long-term?

Recommendations by Rider Type

Occasional Riders & Beginners (< 2000 km/year):

• Shimano Sora or Tiagra
• SRAM Apex
• Mechanical shifting
• Budget: 600-1000 Euros

Ambitious Hobby Riders (2000-5000 km/year):

• Shimano 105 (mechanical or Di2)
• SRAM Rival (mechanical or eTap)
• Campagnolo Potenza
• Budget: 1200-1800 Euros

Competitive Amateurs & Licensed Riders (5000-10000 km/year):

• Shimano Ultegra Di2
• SRAM Force eTap AXS
• Campagnolo Chorus/Record
• Budget: 2000-2800 Euros

Semi-Professionals & Professionals (> 10000 km/year):

• Shimano Dura-Ace Di2
• SRAM Red eTap AXS
• Campagnolo Super Record EPS
• Budget: 3000-4500 Euros

Compatibility and Mixed Systems

A common misconception is that all components of a groupset must be from the same manufacturer. In practice, there is room for mixed systems, though with limitations:

What Works:

• Chain and cassette from different manufacturers (e.g., Shimano shifting with KMC chain)
• Cranksets from other manufacturers with compatible bottom bracket
• Wheels are generally universally compatible (with same freehub technology)
• Brake discs from different manufacturers (with disc brakes)

What is Problematic:

• Shifters and derailleurs from different manufacturers usually don't work (different cable pull ratios)
• Electronic components are not cross-compatible
• 11-speed Shimano cassettes with SRAM derailleur (works, but not vice versa)
• Chainring combinations with incorrect spacing can lead to shifting problems

Tip: If possible, stay within one manufacturer's ecosystem for shifters, derailleurs, and cassette. Chain, crankset, and wheels can be chosen more flexibly.

Maintenance and Care

Maintenance Schedule for Mechanical Groupsets

After every wet ride:

• Clean and re-lubricate chain
• Clean derailleurs of dirt
• Check cables for corrosion

Every 500-800 km:

• Thoroughly clean and lubricate chain
• Lubricate cables (drop oil into outer housings)
• Check shifting precision and adjust if necessary
• Check chainrings and cassette for wear

Every 1500-2500 km:

• Measure chain and replace if necessary (wear limit approx. 0.75%)
• Completely replace cables
• Check brake pads (rims) or discs and pads (disc brakes)
• Check bearings for play (derailleur jockey wheels, bottom bracket)

Once annually:

• Complete cleaning and inspection of all components
• Check cassette and chainrings for wear
• Grease all bearings (derailleur, bottom bracket, pedals)
• Completely check and maintain brake system

Maintenance Schedule for Electronic Groupsets

Every 300-500 km:

• Charge battery (Shimano Di2) or replace batteries (SRAM eTap)
• Clean and lubricate chain
• Check contacts and connectors for corrosion

Every 1500 km:

• Check firmware update (via app or PC)
• Verify calibration
• Replace chain if worn

Once annually:

• Perform software update
• Check all components for function
• Check seals on derailleur motors

Advantage of electronic groupsets: By eliminating cables, frequent readjustments and cable changes are eliminated. Maintenance is mainly reduced to chain, cassette, and battery.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem: Shifting Skips Gears or Doesn't Shift Cleanly

Possible Causes:

• Incorrect cable tension (mechanical)
• Dirty or corroded cables
• Bent derailleur hanger (derailleur mounting)
• Worn chain or cassette
• B-tension screw incorrectly adjusted

Solution: Readjust shifting (turn barrel adjuster), clean/replace cables, straighten derailleur hanger, replace worn parts.

Problem: Electronic Shifting Doesn't Respond

Possible Causes:

• Battery empty
• Loose connection
• Firmware problem
• Calibration lost

Solution: Charge/replace battery, check all connectors and reconnect, firmware update, perform recalibration.

Problem: Chain Drops Under Load

Possible Causes:

• Worn chain (over 0.75% elongation)
• Worn cassette or chainrings
• Front derailleur incorrectly adjusted
• Incompatible components

Solution: Measure and replace chain, check and replace cassette/chainrings if necessary, readjust front derailleur.

Problem: Chain Rubs on Front Derailleur

Possible Causes:

• Front derailleur position incorrect (height, angle, distance)
• Missing trim function in certain gear combinations
• Bent front derailleur

Solution: Reposition and adjust front derailleur, activate auto-trim on electronic groupsets, replace bent parts.

Latest Developments and Trends

1x Systems (Single Chainring)

While traditional road bike shifting works with 2 chainrings at the front (2x), 1x systems (only one chainring at the front) are gaining popularity. Advantages:

• Significantly simpler setup (no front derailleur)
• Weight savings (approx. 150-200g)
• More intuitive operation (only shift at the rear)
• Less prone to chain rub or drops

Disadvantages are the smaller range and larger gear jumps. SRAM offers special 1x groupsets with eTap AXS (10-44 cassette) optimized for gravel and all-road.

Wireless Shifting

SRAM's eTap AXS was a pioneer for completely wireless groupsets. Meanwhile, Shimano also offers wireless communication between components with the Di2 2x12 generation. The advantages:

• Significantly easier installation and maintenance
• Clean appearance without cable clutter
• Flexible placement of switches (e.g., additional satellite switches)
• No more cable breaks possible

Integration and Connectivity

Modern electronic groupsets can be connected with bike computers, power meters, and other sensors. Functions such as Automatic Shifting (gear automation based on gradient and power) or Smart-Shift (optimized gear recommendations) are increasingly available. The Shimano E-Tube app and SRAM AXS app allow extensive customization of shifting logic.

Sustainability and Longevity

In light of increasing environmental awareness, manufacturers place more value on longevity and repairability. Shimano now offers individually replaceable wear parts for many groupsets. Campagnolo's "One by Campy" recycling program and SRAM's "Service Parts" philosophy also show the trend toward more sustainable products.