Need advice on ergo levers

[pcastiglia]

Finally upgrading to 10 speed and was wondering which levers to buy... Chorus QS or Centaur Ultra Shift (2009-10). Aside from the new shape hoods, what are the general characteristics of each? I am am coming from a 2004-05 Chorus 9 ergo lever. Also, how would the Centaur levers work with an older(2004) Chorus 10sp. rear derailleur?

Thanks in advance for any/all feedback.

Paul

[bikerjulio]

To answer your last question first - basically all 10 speed stuff across the years is compatible. So current 10 speed shifters are fine with older derailleurs.

The first question is trickier. Over the 10 year span 2000 - 2010, with each iteration of shifters Campy softened the shifter feel - with a total fail on the '09 Centaurs which lost all feeling and which got an upgrade for '10. Problem is you can't tell the difference by looking.

So if you really like the new shape, then go for '10 Centaurs. The revised '11 mech has yet to see to much in the way of reviews so I can't comment.

If you like the classic shape and a solid feel, then get the oldest NOS levers you can find - the ones with "BB System" on them.

"Ultras" are ok but a little softer.

Prior to 2007, the mechs of Record, Chorus and Centaur are almost identical.

At all costs never buy the 2007-8 "QS" version Centaurs - an escape horror.

[pcastiglia]

Thanks for the info! I definately prefer to "feel" the shift as with the older levers I had (2001 Daytona, 2004 Chorus). Since I'm not sold on the new shape hoods just yet, I am leaning toward your suggestion of the oldest NOS levers available. I just wasn't sure about the feel of the newer levers. Excel Sports has 10 speed Chorus levers for under $300 but these are the QS variety. Not sure what year they are though.

[bikerjulio]

A classic lever with "QS" on it is 2007/8 vintage (although as an aside, I have been told that Campy is still making this style).

As I said before, up till '07 the internals between Centaur & Record are similar. In '07 Campy made a switch in the Centaur internals at the same time going to "QS". Those Centaurs have an "escape" mech, the cheaper "one shift at a time" system. The action of the left lever became like a trigger - and in doing so the fine trim was lost. Not knowing this I bought a set, and was most disappointed.

I don't have personal experience with the Record/Chorus "QS" versions, but I believe they did not suffer this problem. They are in stock at several retailers, whereas for the older ones ebay is the best source. these may include cables - you have to ask.

As for price - here are Records for $290
http://www.cyclesuperstore.ie/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=80&idproduct=2968

alternative Chorus & Record here
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=26038

I have dealt with these guys - cables included. If price includes UK VAT (I'm sure it does) then take 20% off - so $240
http://cgi.ebay.ca/2006-Campagnolo-Record-10-Speed-Carbon-Ergopower-Levers-/160547568150?pt=UK_sportsleisure_cycling_bikeparts_SR&hash=item2561617a16

[pcastiglia]

Thanks again for your help. I am definately going in this direction with the older style levers.