Sprockets! Now it is time we dance: Campagnolo Centaur Ultra Drive Cassette

Even Dieter's German sensibilities of fine engineering and precision have to appreciate the beauty, craft and performance of Campagnolo components. Having purchased a Record crank, rounding out a complete Record gruppo was a natural inclination. But the top of the Campy line comes at a steep cost. And for what really? What you get with most Record components are lighter, slightly better versions of Chorus components. The performance of the two are usually on par with each other with Record intended for professionals and amateur cyclists with piles of expendable cash. I would be completely happy "settling" for Chorus components, but in many cases they too are pricey. Although...one more step down the line is Centaur, the overshadowed, under-appreciated, hard working and responsible child in the famiglia. Campagnolo has made nice upgrades to the 2009 Centaur components, making them a fine alternative choice when top of the line and the highest of highest performance is not a priority, but rather reliability and bang for your buck. This 2009 Centaur Ultra Drive 13-26t cassette is a little heavier than its bigger siblings, but is more than half the price and still excellent quality. A "compromise" I'm willing to make. I went with a 13-26 tooth for greater climbing ability. After logging (or slogging) X number of ascents I might find I would prefer a large cog as big as 29t. That will be sorted out over time. For the time being I think this cassette size companied with the 53/39 chain ringed crank will serve me well. It appears now that the drivetrain and braking system of the bike will be a pastiche of Campagnolo - a little Record, some Centaur, and Chorus to complete the work. Not bad at all. The purchase of this cassette is also my first since learning about Pro Bike Kit. PBK arguably offers some of the lowest prices of any retailer, internet or LBS. Thanks very much to the current weakening of the GBP versus the USD, I got a great deal. I know PBK will be one place I will turn to over and over again for parts. Cheers mates!