Ekar 13 Ergopower Shifter

The number thirteen may not be so unlucky after all with Campagnolo’s new Ekar drivetrain, designed for good old fashioned gravel shenanigans. Upfront on the handlebars rests the new 13-speed Ekar Ergopower Shifters, which Campagnolo argues are the most comfortable shifters available. A glance at the ergonomic shape, which is not so subtly hinted at in the name, one would find it difficult to challenge the claim. Tall hood mounds offer the stability needed for off-road bashing and freedom to reposition on longer stretches of gravel for comfort — if not merely for the sake of variety. And under the hood, Campagnolo uses a cover shield that fills the gap between the lever and the main body to reduce harsh edges that are present on some competing shifters on the market. The aluminum lever features textured grip at the pointy end for enhanced control and feel, and you can adjust the reach to accommodate your needs and your preferred riding style.

The main body is reinforced with carbon fiber for weight savings and a boost of strength. Campagnolo’s signature thumb-paddle for down-shifting is present on the right shifter body — similar to the road sibling line — but for a gravel-specific design, the lever body is extended in a U-shape to offer a deeper platform and easier reach while riding on turbulent gravel sections. On the Ekar system, Campagnolo has limited the downshift to one at a time, so you’ll have to be quick and precise about those sprint-line shifts. But Campagnolo’s Ultra-Shift tech is here for rapid three-gear upshifts with one lever throw.

The Ergopower Shifter is connected — and pre-bled — to the new Ekar hydraulic disc calipers that are identical front and back and adaptable for 140 or 160mm rotor sizes. Campagnolo intends the Ekar calipers to pair with the new Ekar rotors for the ultimate gravel braking performance.