Many of you are right in terms of 8 and 9 speed Shimano parts being available. HOWEVER, in my experience, Campy does NOT keep their drivetrain parts available for as long as Shimano. I have been riding Campy since 1992, and I can tell you that I have several boxes with shifters, derailleurs and parts because I couldn't find other parts to keep the drivetrain going. The other issue here is that Shimano has lots of groups on mtn bikes, where Campy does not. While that may not be an issue with shifters, with chains, cassettes and some derailleurs it does add to that extension of getting parts.

AS far as 10/11 speed chains, I have been riding them for several years without any issues. There are always instances where something fails... and that can be a new product or an older one. Remember most of these products are tested with the pros, and they certainly ride more miles, have more power than many of us ever will!

The bottom line is that Campy has a great reputation and makes very high quality products.