Which company pioneered electronic shifting, including a wireless attempt, before Shimano's wired success?
Answer
Mavic.
The leap to fully electronic shifting was first attempted by the French company Mavic, which introduced its Zap electronic shifting system back in 1992, predating Shimano's successful wired DURA-ACE Di2 by many years. Mavic also experimented with wireless technology later through its Mektronic system. However, these early electronic attempts were significantly hindered by issues related to reliability, slow shifting performance, and susceptibility to radio interference. Shimano ultimately gained dominance in the electronic field by adhering to a reliable, wired connection that delivered precise, direct motor control commands to the derailleurs.
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