Bicycle frame pioneer 3T partners with most efficient drivetrain brand in the world to enhance 1x engineering and innovation, collaborating on new race and gravel models

Classified and 3T today confirm a new partnership that will see Classified's Powershift technology featured on the new Strada and Exploro RaceMax models. These 1x specific superstars of the 3T range are now available to purchase ‘Powershift ready’, with more models to follow in due course.  

René Wiertz, CEO of 3T, said of the partnership:

“At 3T, everything we do is tailored towards finding efficiency, aerodynamic, and comfort gains. That is why we are so excited to be partnering with Classified. We believe that Powershift Technology is the next step in 1x drivetrain design. The unique benefits offered by the Classified system; the ability to Powershift, the greater gearing range and small steps and the increased durability combines perfectly with 3T’s 1x optimized frame design.”

3T was recognized as a visionary brand six years who when launching 1x only road frames, the Strada Team and Pro, with the aim to improve aerodynamics, reduce weight and provide a more enjoyable riding experience.

Classified presents a unique opportunity to further enhance the benefits of 1x, with a revolutionary drivetrain system that offers all the benefits of a traditional 2x system, with none of the drawbacks. Offering a wider gearing range with close, comfortable steps between each gear, Classified is able to enhance 3T’s innovative 1x engineering to create the perfect ride experience.

Classified also adds the ability to ‘Powershift’ – a virtual gear change that is equivalent to 2 or 3 rear derailer shifts. Riders can Powershift at any point on the ride, instantly and under full load, to always be able to find the right cadence without the inefficiencies caused by extreme cross chaining.

Classified CEO Mathias Plouvier said of the partnership:

“3T are pioneers when it comes to 1x innovation and are a company we followed very closely when developing Powershift Technology. Adding Powershift Technology to 3T’s already impressive line-up makes perfect sense. We’re excited to partner with them and take 1x design to the next level.” 

The first result of the new collaboration is already available: the all new Strada. Combining the Classified Powershift hub and R50 carbon wheelset with the SRAM Red AXS, the result is a super-fast and aggressive 1x bike with a hidden 2x transmission. With the ability to run a bigger single chainring coupled with a larger cassette on the rear, Classified canfurther increase the efficiency of the 1x frame. Making the Strada the perfect weapon for fast flats as well as tough climbs, combining frame and wheel aerodynamics and comfort with the ultimate drivetrain efficiency, all at the same time, all in the same bike. 

After realizing the full potential of Powershift Technology on the all new Strada, 3T asked Classified to collaborate again, this time on the development of a gravel bike. The outcome is the Exploro RaceMax, a bike developed specifically for the fast gravel category. 

Fully built with Force AXS components and paired with Classified G30 wheels - perfect for gravel needs thanks to a 23mm inner rim width and a 30mm profile. Combined with an 11-34 Classified cassette and Powershift hub, the rider has 450% of gearing range to play with on the trails. The Exploro RaceMax is a gravel bike that refuses to compromise, offering all the benefits of 3T’s aerodynamic, reliable, and comfortable frame design with Classified’s efficiency gains and optimal gearing range

·      Strada Red AXS (Force D1 crank) 1x12/Classified R50 Navy/Black MSRP is 6999€/$ incl. VAT and 6599GPB incl. VAT - link to order

·      RaceMax Force D1 AXS 1x12 / Classified G30 Blue/Brown, MSRP 5999€/$ incl. VAT and 5799GBP incl. VAT - link to order

Both bikes and available to purchase immediately from the 3T website, with delivery 30 days from order date.

to Power·shift [Powershifting] {Verb}:
(also: the new benchmark in shifting gears)

1. To shift gears under full load within 150 milliseconds
2. Maintain valuable momentum during climbs and transitions, or before an attack

Classified’s unique 2 speed gear hub allows riders to jump through 46% percent of the gear range, or the equivalent of 2 or 3 rear derailleur shifts, within 150 milliseconds. As such, ‘Powershifting’ is quickly becoming the go to term for maintaining momentum on the trails.

Tests undertaken with pro riders showed a far greater use of the powershift hub gear as opposed to the rear derailleur, leading to an overwhelming increase of momentum through transitions.

“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 further 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.”    

The Ringshifter:

The next generation of shifting, this 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 unparalleled durability and a smooth, responsive feel. The functionalities of the Ringshifter can be customized to meet the individual needs of every rider.

How much confidence, in your form and your equipment, does this win give you going into Unbound?

Form is good, but honestly it will be touch and go for putting the pieces back together for Unbound. I went pretty deep at BWR. But to be honest I would rather have won BWR in Canada, at my home event, than come an anonymous 4th at Unbound. My bike set up is new, and it’s so fast. The new frame is a Factor Ostro Gravel. I’ve only had it for around 10 days, but I love it. Given the weather forecast this weekend, I will definitely be making use of the wider clearance.

A wet and muddy Unbound could be yet another chance for the Classified system to shine. Everybody knows that 2x in the mud is awful, with so many chances for a mechanical or a derailleur problem. One wrong shift and that front derailleur could be gone! The weatherproof hub gear removes all of that uncertainty.

How do you feel Powershift Technology will help you at Unbound?

With the weather set to be bad, and the shitty slow gravel and flint you get in that area - like broken rocks – it could be a game changer! Having confidence in your drivetrain in a situation like that is key to success. Being able to attack, or follow an attack, at a key moment in the race is only possible if you trust your equipment. I feel that with Classified.

Tell us about Unbound, why is it called the world’s premiere gravel event?

It’s the "real" World Championships of gravel. Everyone can tell you who won Unbound for the last 3 years. Especially in the last 3 years, with the talent that’s racing now. This year will be even more ridiculous talent-wise. Gravel racing isn’t a side show anymore, or a hobby for ex pros. It’s legit, and a win at Unbound can make you gravel royalty for at least a season.

How many times have you raced Unbound and how did it go?

This will be my second year. Last year I managed a good 6th place, riding around 100km of the race solo, just two minutes behind the front group. I don’t know if knowing what’s coming will be an advantage or not! Blissful ignorance helped me last year, hopefully fitness will help this year.

What are your hopes for this year’s race?

Honestly, I’ve never been that results orientated. I just want a clean run at the race, with no flats or mechanicals. If I can get through the race clean, then I think my fitness will allow me to be up there. A podium would be a great result.

How can we follow the race?

The best option is to follow the Unbound Instagram account (@unboundgravel) and keep an eye on the stories. I’m sure Classified’s account (@classified.cc) will also be following the race and reposting as much content as possible.

Can the fans ride with you before Unbound?

Yes. There will be a shakeout ride on Thursday 1st at 9:30am, leaving from the Schwalbe tent in the event village. And then at 9am on Friday morning there will be another shake out ride with Chamois Butter and Wahoo. Both rides will be around 1.5 hours, taking on a few parts of the Unbound route, and will be very social. Riders can just show up on the day to join the ride.

What else do you have on the calendar as big goals this year? 

A few days after Unbound I’m flying directly to Finland for FNLD GRVL, which will be a good one. The Lifetime series is a big goal in the season and riding Badlands in Spain would be cool, and something I haven’t done before. Then I’m taking part in Across Andes, a 1000km event through Chile. That will be cool, and a good test for the Classified system.

Will you be racing the gravel World Championships?

I won’t be racing at the World Championships this year. It falls at a funny time for me, so it's not on my plan this year. Maybe next year though.

Maybe a trip to Belgium for the 2024 Gravel World Championships?

Yes for sure I'd love that. I would love to race in Belgium, and also visit the Classified HQ and meet the team there. If it fits in my 2024 calendar then tnat would be really cool.

Thanks Rob, best of luck for the weekend. You can follow Rob’s progress at Unbound this weekend by following Classified on social media, and also following Rob on Instagram - @rob_britton.