If there is a true Campagnolo signature component of the modern era it must be the Ergopower Lever. Yes, the iconic design has changed over the years but three important features remain consistent. First, the lever is designed with excellent ergonomics and those requirements have changed as bike and component set-up's and trends have changed; notably the handlebar curve radii. Second, the presence of the downshift lever inside the grip of the body for easy reach and minimal effort from both the tops and the drops. Third, the fixed brake lever delivers the solid braking response you have come to expect, and won't trigger accidental shifts. Within those features, the 11-speed mechanical Ergopower levers have evolved the most, with a taller grip, increased angle of the brake lever for better reach, and the internals have driven changes in the shift levers themselves. The rider still gets the positive feel and reassuring engagement Campy lovers preach about, but with less physical effort. The cost-effective 11-speed Potenza Ergopower Lever advances the evolutionary process further, not only drawing on Super Record for shape and mechanical inspiration, but also from Super Record EPS, the electronic version, for a key design change.

Several hidden changes were made to increase overall performance and reliability, as well as improve set-up angle. Now the clamping system offers more purchase on the curve for increased hold and torsional resistance, even when creating a rider specific angle for the top section of the hoods. The internal shifter mechanism was also re-engineered for greater efficiency and here is where you see the downshift thumb lever of both right and left shifters is directly copied from Super Record EPS. With increase access and even less force required due to the internals, the downshifter is now less obtrusive (perhaps only to those who found the older mechanism to be in the way). Shifting is effortless, and much faster. The Potenza Ergopower Levers carry the Multishift system, so you can hold and shift down up to five cogs, or up to three cogs. Pro cyclists love this system, as quick tempo changes and attacks can be addressed with ease.

Experience Campagnolo riders will enjoy the modified body shape, with a taller grip section at the front that is perfect for control when on the attack or chase, and can otherwise also serve as a way to relax the hands on a long climb or when numbingly churning out miles on rolling terrain. The new silicone hood covers have a supple, yet stable feel, with excellent grip, durability and improve vibration mitigation. Variable cushion thickness supplies more where you need it, less where you don't, with a textured outer surface for improve tactile grip and overall control, wet or dry. The expected ergonomics seem to truly work well with most hand sizes, though extremes either way will want to carefully think about handlebar curve shape and radii for the best fit overall when handlebar reach is factored in.

Overall, Potenza deliver a true Campagnolo experience, with the Ergopower Levers leading the way. Indeed, the fit and function of shift/brake levers generally determines one's drivetrain group choice. We feel historical Campy riders will enjoy and exploit the features of Potenza, and those new to Campagnolo will be drawn to it specifically for the lever function and subsequent downstream shifting excellence. Now you can afford to equip any and all of your bikes with Campagnolo 11-speed, making easy wheel changes possible and maintaining your preferred Italian components on your daily commuter, gravel bike, or cantilever cyclocross bike with Potenza, with Ergopower leading the way.