Introduction

Electronic shifting has transformed the cycling industry, but many don’t realize that some of the earliest innovations came not from the usual suspects—Shimano, SRAM, or Campagnolo—but from Mavic, a brand synonymous with high-performance wheels.

The Evolution of Electronic Shifting

Today, electronic shifting is ubiquitous, especially in professional road cycling, where it has become the gold standard. High-end systems from SRAM, Campagnolo, and even accessible options from brands like L-Twoo have infiltrated the market, making the transition from mechanical to electronic shifting smoother than ever. Shimano first introduced its Digital Integrated Intelligence (Di2) system for trekking bikes in 2001, but it was only in 2009 that the full range for road bikes came into play, triggering a revolution.

Mavic's Pioneering Efforts

Back in the early 90s, Mavic was already ahead of the curve. In 1992, the company unveiled an electrically controlled derailleur, tested on the prestigious Tour de France teams Once and RMO. The following year marked the launch of the ZMS (Zap Mavic System), which was groundbreaking at the time as it was the 'first' microprocessor-driven rear derailleur. The system featured two buttons on the handlebars and a solenoid in the rear derailleur that shifted gears without the need for mechanical cables.

Efficiency and Flexibility

While the mechanics of this system may seem primitive compared to today’s advanced electronic systems, it laid important groundwork. The gear shift was initiated by a solenoid that actuated the derailleur, moving only when the cyclist was pedaling, which brought in a new level of efficiency to gear changing.

Recognition and Evolution

The flexibility in setup is one of the most appealing aspects of electronic shifting. Modern versions, such as Shimano’s sprint and climbing shifters, allow cyclers to place shifters wherever it’s most convenient, which can be particularly advantageous in time trials—showcasing how far the technology has come.

Mavic’s electronic system gained notable recognition when cyclist Chris Boardman utilized it in the early 90s, helping him clinch the yellow jersey in the prologue time trials of the Tour de France in both 1994 and 1997. However, after realizing that the Zap system didn't meet the evolving standards of performance, Mavic halted production but continued its research and development in electronic components.

Further Innovations

In 1999, Mavic ventured further into innovation with the Mektronic system, which eliminated wires in favor of digitally coded radio signals. This advanced setup included controls integrated into the grips and a multifunction computer on the handlebars to display crucial cycling metrics like speed and distance. However, Mektronic was not without its flaws; with only the rear derailleur functioning electronically and shifts that some cyclists found too slow, the system ultimately faced reliability issues leading to its discontinuation.

Legacy and Future

Though Mavic no longer produces shifters or derailleurs, their early experiments in electronic shifting mark an essential chapter in cycling history. The introduction of wireless electronic shifting in the 1990s was a pivotal milestone that paved the way for the sophisticated systems we see today. It took years for competitors to build upon Mavic's innovative legacy, but cyclists everywhere are now reaping the benefits of these technological advancements. The question remains: what other groundbreaking innovations will the cycling industry unveil in the future?