Classified launch the Powershift Boost hub for MTB

Belgian drivetrain technology company Classified, has announces the next Powershift hub development with its entry into the mountain bike scene.

With the launch of a mountain bike-specific Powershift hub system, the Powershift boost hub, together with Classified’s new 11-40t 12 speed cassette, has a gear range of 530%, the largest of any drivetrain system on the market.

Entry into the mountain bike space allows Classified to introduce yet another revolutionary piece of technology: the Ringshifter. A feather light wireless shifter that controls the 2 speed Powershift hub, offering sensational feedback and fitting seamlessly into the existing cockpit.

The Ringshifter offers a sleek, fully wireless handlebar control provides unrivalled shifting performance with the lightest flick of your thumb. The Ringshifter can perform 10,000 shifts before needing to be easily recharged with the provided magnetic USB cable.

Featuring a unique magnetic spring back mechanism, the Ringshifter delivers what Classified call a durable, smooth, responsive feel. The functionalities of the Ringshifter can also be customized to meet the individual needs of every rider.

Promoted by Classified as the road and gravel bike ‘front derailleur killer,’ the Belgium business now sets its sights on enabling MTB riders, taking existing 1×11 or 1×12 drivetrain systems and doubling the number of ratios.

Critically, the 2 speed Powershift hub from Classified can offer a significantly higher gearing range with smaller steps in between each gear to maintain optimum cadence, whilst also offering the ability to Powershift; a 150 millisecond gear jump in either direction. As with the award-winning road and gravel hub, this instantaneous ‘Powershift’ can be done under full load of up to 1000 watts.

“The feedback of professional riders is very promising and brought us even better insights into the enormous potential the product offers. Extending our range further into off-road space with the mountain bike hub confirms Classified’s vision to be a technology that is compatible across all cycling disciplines. We are extremely excited about the possibilities the new product brings and its ability to enhance the existing MTB drivetrain market.” says Mathias Plouvier, CEO and co-founder of Classified Cycling.

CTO Roell van Druten adds “we are very proud to bring Powershift technology to mountain biking. With an ultimate gear range of 530%, the Powershift Boost hub combines a high-grade, one-piece compact steel cassette (11-40t) with a larger chainring, improving the overall durability of the drivetrain.”

Van Druten goes on to explain the benefits of the new system: “Using the Classified hub with an 11-40t cassette and a 34t chainring results in the lowest drivetrain ratio of 0.58. To achieve this ratio with a traditional system the user would have to use a 30t chainring. Using a smaller chainring in a traditional system lowers the efficiency and durability of that system due to the higher chain forces. The more compact Classified cassette also allows the use of a shorter derailleur cage, increasing the robustness of the drivetrain alongside the efficiency.”

Launch dates and first views / rides

Between now and May 23 you will be able to test ride the system at exclusive test events like Sea Otter Classic, Riva del Garda bike show and other unique test events. For more information about exclusive test events and product info please head to the dedicated MTB page and sign up for updates.

The Powershift boost hub will be available to purchase through Classified’s worldwide network of dealers and distributors – Windwave for UK retailers – from May 23, 2023. The Powershift boost hub can be fitted to any mountain bike frame with a 148mm dropout spacing.

To learn more about the exact requirements for adding the Powershift Boost hub to either MTB or 148mm gravel bike visit the Classified FAQs page.

Thoughts from CI.N

For many this will be prime for down country and trail bikes, spanning 120mm to 160mm, and maybe event for a few looking at making their enduro rig more ridable, more often. The question now; when (not if) will this appear as OE on a big brand MTB?