Originally Posted by
bellweatherman
Even before Campy and Shimano did electric shifting, Mavic had an electric shifting groupset called Mektronic back in the 90s. Campy has reportedly had problems with battery life and size. Maybe they have it figured out now. Shimano had a lot more high-tech expertise in developing their electronic system.
Incorrect.
Campagnolo was not satisfied with battery life and size so they held off releasing it.
I don't see how Shimano has proven any more adept at electronics than Campy. Campy had ergo brain and Shimano had the flight deck. Neither flew off the shelf.
The Campagnolo development cycle is a lot shorter than Shimano's. IMHO Shimano dropped Di2 on the market because they got caught with their peckers out on 11spd. I don''t believe they thought the market was ready either.
Campagnolo is in the catbird seat here and can let Shimano sort out the market place before they take a risk. If Di2 dies then Campagnolo can shelve their product and come back to it later if need be.
Shimano is number 1 not because of a superior product (both brands make excellent equipment) but because they offer far superior factory support and VERY aggressive OE pricing. Sram has picked up on that model and is buying OE spec to earn the more profitable aftermarket sales.
Campagnolo is, and will continue to be, and aftermarket company. Which is fine because that's where the margins are.