Researchers discovered a technique that would allow anyone with a few hundred dollars to hack into wireless gear-shifting systems used by top cycling teams at events like the Tour de France.
But at least right now they are only available in expensive bikes, so not something your average bike rider would buy anyways. I doubt you’ll see many electronic shifters on people’s commuter or city bikes. Unless they come down in price and go mainstream, it’s only two groups that buy them: actual athletes, where those marginal gains do make a difference and are worth the downsides, and enthusiasts with enough money to spare for their hobby. For the latter value or everyday practicability are probably less of a concern.
Yes, you’re right, of course. But yes, not practical for us regular bike users in most cases, I’d think!
But at least right now they are only available in expensive bikes, so not something your average bike rider would buy anyways. I doubt you’ll see many electronic shifters on people’s commuter or city bikes. Unless they come down in price and go mainstream, it’s only two groups that buy them: actual athletes, where those marginal gains do make a difference and are worth the downsides, and enthusiasts with enough money to spare for their hobby. For the latter value or everyday practicability are probably less of a concern.