Campagnolo has today unveiled what it is calling its “most advanced” groupset to date. The Super Record 13 “Ultra” groupset, introduced with much fanfare, adds a new layer of luxury to the brand’s already premium flagship product. This development is marked by the inclusion of high-end materials like carbon, titanium, and ceramic, making it a standout in the world of cycling.
While the groupset promises a weight saving of 81 grams, it is its opulence that truly sets it apart. Designed to enhance both performance and aesthetics, the Super Record 13 Ultra is more luxurious and expensive than its predecessors. The announcement comes as Campagnolo continues to focus on the ‘sports luxury’ market, a niche that has seen growing interest among cycling enthusiasts.
Innovative Design and Materials
The Super Record 13 Ultra groupset features a carbon fibre chainring, available in 50T and 52T options, weighing 78g and 102g respectively. This represents a weight saving of 34g and 28g compared to existing models. The chainring boasts 7075 aluminium teeth and a special heat treatment for improved longevity, with design details directly obtained from the mould.
Additionally, the groupset includes a titanium cassette, with sprocket sets machined from larger blocks of titanium. Available in 10-33T or 11-36T options, these cassettes offer a weight saving of 30g and 44g, respectively. The design maintains clear Campagnolo aesthetics, featuring laser-etched graphics and a unique colour combination.
Completing the trio of upgrades is a newly designed bottom bracket that incorporates ceramic bearings. These bearings, made from Silicone Nitride and selected according to international aerospace standards, are housed in a redesigned bearing cage to reduce friction and noise. Although specific efficiency or longevity savings are not promised, there is a small weight saving of three grams.
The Economics of Luxury
The entire package offers a combined weight saving of 81 grams for a total price of €1,114.00, equating to almost €14 per gram. As the headline suggests, luxury doesn’t always have to make sense. Davide Campagnolo, grandson of the company founder Tullio, emphasized the company’s commitment to the ‘sports luxury’ market during a media briefing in 2023. This launch is a testament to that focus.
“On the road, an improvement of this level will not go unnoticed and will certainly be felt immediately thanks to the possibility of saving up to 81g…”
Basic physics suggests that an 81-gram weight saving could make a bike faster, but in reality, the difference is likely negligible. Campagnolo assures potential buyers that they will feel the difference, but the true appeal may lie elsewhere.
The Allure of Exclusivity
For many, the motivation to purchase such an exclusive product is not rooted in performance gains alone. Buyers might be drawn to the sense of achievement or the connection to Campagnolo’s storied history. This is not unlike Colnago customers who purchase high-end items for their symbolic value.
Others may be attracted by the social recognition or the pride of owning a top-tier product that few others possess. Despite not being a limited edition, the price point ensures that it remains exclusive in its own right.
Ultimately, whether or not it makes practical sense, the Super Record 13 Ultra offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and exclusivity. For those who value these attributes, the groupset represents a worthwhile investment. For those interested in individual components, the chainring, cassette, or bottom bracket can be purchased separately.
As the cycling world continues to evolve, Campagnolo’s latest offering sets a new benchmark for luxury in the sport. Whether it will redefine the market or remain a niche product for the discerning few remains to be seen.
