New Classified Powershift MTB hub is effectively a 16-speed unit
Classified is a Belgian drivetrain technology company that entered the mountain bike market today with a new 2-speed wireless hub. Local distribution will be through Omnico. Here’s an overview of how it works and what it will do for you.
Classified is a 2-speed wireless hub that multiplies the number of gears on your bike. The two speeds are either a 1:1 ratio where the cassette is directly coupled to the wheel or a 0.7 reduction ratio where the cassette rotates faster than the wheel. The net effect is the overall range of the cassette is increased and there are smaller steps in the gearing.
The new bar-mounted Classified Ringshifter is used to shift the hub gears. It is a wireless system, that speaks directly to the rear hub to trigger a shift, on demand. Shifting is incredibly quick, within 150 milliseconds and can be done under full load.
The proprietary 11-40t, 12-speed cassette is a one-piece steel construct with a claimed weight of 248 grams. When factoring in the 2-speed hub, the total range is 530% which broadens the application of the system from XC to trail to bikepacking. It is also cross-compatible with the existing Classified 142 hub.
The Powershift hub shell design is available as a stand-alone package to build with any wheelset. Or as a complete carbon wheelset, known as the brand’s M25/30 which is a 1365g unit, 30mm inner width and 25mm low profile design for XC or light trail riding.
After removing duplicate ratios, the addition of the 2-speed hub effectively delivers 16 unique gears. This means finding the right cadence will be easier and it will reduce gear grinding. Additionally, the gear options are all accessible in the middle of the cassette which helps keep cross-chaining to a minimum. By running a 10% bigger chainring, the overall durability of the drivetrain will also increase.
On the trail, the new Powershift system is said to improve momentum during transitions. You can shift without pedaling too – which will come in handy on technical terrain. In testing, riders tended to shift less with the rear derailleur and more with the Powershift which also resulted in a straighter and more efficient chain line being used.
Pricing and local availability
• Powershift hub set + Classified hookless carbon wheelset €2,699
• Powershift hub set with hub shell €1,549
• Powershift hub set without hub shell, €1,449
• *(MSRP in Europe – South African pricing will be very similar to the above EU pricing)
Local availability is set for end May.