If your drivetrain is full-Campagnolo and you're tantalized by the wonders of a compact crankset, Campy can make it a bit tough if your budget is tight. In order to maintain your drivetrain's Campagnolo smoothness and Campagnolo quietness, the sexy option is to get a Campagnolo Carbon Compact crankset, and we're aware that that ain't cheap. Some people have settled in the past for an FSA or Ritchey or Truvativ compact crankset. While the 50/34 rings were a plus, nobody would say their shifting improved by switching brands.

Thank heavens, Campy released an alloy compact crankset that fully embraces all the technology of their Ultra Torque design. It rivals the price of the aftermarket brands, but it's full-on Campy quality -- most importantly in the precision of its chainrings, the stiffness of its semi axle BB design, and its near friction-free BB drag. Your bike will have the silence and the shifting crispness you expect from Campy, and your wallet will be no worse for the wear.

The Centaur Compact crankset is built to be used with a Record Ultra Torque bottom bracket. It is available in 170mm, 172.5mm, and 175mm lengths, in a chainring ratio of 50/34.