The electronic gear shifts are now fitted to many bikes which are available to hire. To some the idea of an electronically controlled gear shifting seems a bit over the top and superfluous. This could not be further from the truth. Read on to discover why electronic gear shifts range is rated by all cyclists including the professionals.

The History

When electronic gear shifts was first brought to the market, it was aimed solely at professional riders. The increase in weight was minimal from their mechanical gear shifts, and the increase in performance was evident. One of the key things that electronic gear shifts did was to make gear changing faster and more accurate. Professional riders were involved in its development. Due to the technology being aimed at the pros, it was expensive.

Everyday Cycling

The electronic gear shifts range has now been expanded. With more affordable version a few years ago. Although in real terms it is only recently that more and more bikes feature electronic gear shifting. 

Beginners

One of the strengths of electronic gears is that it makes it easier for beginning level cyclists to get the idea of efficient gear changing. To conquer mountains you need to have good gear use and be able to transition between gears to maximize efficiency of the climb. Although electronic gear shifts do not change gear automatically based on speed, they do make gear shifting faster and more accurate. For beginner cyclists, selecting the right gear more often is a big confidence boost.

Women

Hannah Bussey writing in Cycling Weekly Magazine said of the electronic gear shifts;
"I'm fully aware that not all females have the misfortune of having hands the size of a child on the ends of arms that are weaker than water. But if you've inherited physiology similar to mine, then quite frankly Ultegra Di2 is the stuff groupset dreams are made of."
In essence she went on to describe how the "gamble" of changing gears had been eradicated thanks to electronic gear shifting, and as such her confidence and racing style has improved. Prior to this, she was reluctant to change gears due to her small hands. She found shifting up the cassette a struggle. Now she describes changing gear as easy as tapping a keyboard.

Amateur

The pros use electronic gear shifting for a reason, and as such if you are looking to improve your times so should you. Confidence is key to all levels of cyclist and having precision as well as outstanding reliability when you change gear will give you confidence. You will be in the right gear more often.
The electronic gear shifting is one of many great reasons to join us in Mallorca for a holiday or training camp. For more information about our Cycling Camps in Mallorca follow the link and complete the Ask for Availability form.

What are your experiences with electronic gear shifts?

Sources: Cycling Weekly

submitted on 25/01/2015