The legendary Italian brand Campagnolo presents a new addition to its gravel groupset – the Campagnolo Ekar GT. This 13-speed groupset is the younger sibling of the Campagnolo Ekar introduced in 2020, offering many of its advantages at a more accessible price. Introduced at the start of the 2024 season, it complements the legendary Italian brand's lineup. Completing the groupset are Campagnolo Zonda GT wheels. These wheels clearly evoke the styling of the legendary Shamal, but are also offered at a much more accessible price.
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Key features of the Campagnolo Ekar GT
- Affordable price : The Ekar GT costs around 1,490 euros, which means a saving of around 300 euros compared to the original Ekar.
- Increased weight : The new group weighs approximately 2700 grams, which is an increase of approximately 300 grams compared to Ekar.
- Materials : Campagnolo Ekar GT uses primarily aluminum instead of carbon fiber, which contributes to the lower price and higher weight.
Technical improvements to the Campagnolo Ekar GT
Despite its lower price, the Campagnolo Ekar GT offers several technical improvements:
- Cassette selection : Depending on your riding style, you can choose from 9/36t, 9/42t, 10/44t, or 10/48t cassettes, or a 10/48t cassette for those who primarily use gravel bikes off-road (equivalent to the SRAM Mullet drivetrain).
- Available crank options : 44t, 42t, 40t, 38t and the new 36t
- Improved rear derailleur : Easier adjustment and better chain management.
- Improved gears : Ensure better performance
- Optimized Geometry : Increased Q-factor and chainline for more comfortable and efficient pedaling.
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Oversized derailleur pulleys ensure smoother operation and better performance even when the drivetrain is very dirty
Summary
The Campagnolo Ekar GT is an exciting newcomer to the world of gravel components. It offers many of the benefits of its more expensive counterpart, the Campagnolo Ekar, at a more affordable price.
Who is it for? Thanks to several technical improvements and a wider gear range, the Ekar GT may be an attractive option for cyclists looking for high-quality components at a reasonable price. The use of aluminum instead of carbon promises greater mechanical durability. This could be crucial when targeting riders for whom gravel riding isn't just about smooth, premium gravel roads, but also about root- and rock-strewn forest singletrack. The unique shifter lever is also noteworthy – gears are shifted with the right hand only. However, unlike Shimano's 1x drivetrains, to shift to a heavier gear, you press the shifter with your thumb on the inside of the lever. If you enjoy unconventional solutions and, like us, believe that " a bike is infinitely more than the sum of its parts ," then perhaps a Campagnolo groupset is right for you.
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