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I don't currently have much to add on the simplicity vs tech standpoint, but electronic shifting has been out for a while and there aren't really any problems with it.

Someone I know rides every day and said the battery lasts for about 4 months (looks like newer versions are rechargeable as well). There aren't any cables in the shifting mechanism. It is a set of shifters that are wirelessly connected to the derailleur.

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FWIW, Shimano Di2 batteries have always been rechargeable.

SRAM's eTap wireless shifting system has a mix of rechargeable batteries on the derailleurs and non-rechargeable CR2032 batteries in the shift/brake levers.

I don't know what Campagnolo does, because I'm not interested in farm machinery. It is probably rechargeable by sending it back to an Italian specialist every two weeks. ;)

That's the SRAM system. Shimano has cables.

That said, I prefer my home built fixie: cheap to get great components, easy to maintain, and damn fun to ride.

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