FAQ

Compatibility

Are Classified wheelsets and POWERSHIFT hubs compatible with any frame?

Our POWERSHIFT system can be installed on every frame provided it has the following specifications:

For Road & Gravel applications using the 142mm Powershift  hub:
Rear hub width of 142mm. Front hub width of 100mm.
Thru Axle diameter is 12mm (both front & rear).
Compatible with post-mount and flatmount disc brakes (all sizes) - not compatible with rim brakes.
No adjustment to your frame or dropout is needed to install a Classified wheel or POWERSHIFT system on your bike.
For Road & Gravel setup with the 142mm Powershift hub*, the front chainring size must be at least 40T.
*(for E-bikes, the maximal size of cassette to be used is 11-34, so 11-40 is not compatible with E-bike applications)

For MTB applications using the 148mm Powershift boost hub:
Rear hub width of 148mm. Front hub width of 110mm.
Thru Axle diameter is 12mm for the rear and 15mm for the front thru-axle.
Compatible with post-mount and flatmount disc brakes (all sizes)  - not compatible with rim brakes.
For MTB setup with the 148mm Powershift boost hub, the front chainring size must be at least 30T.

Do I need a specific cassette?

Yes, Classified uses a proprietary cassette for increased durability and lighter weight. We offer several options so you can optimise your drive train to suit your riding style.

Which chains are compatible with the Classified cassette?

Classified 11 speed cassettes are designed to operate with Shimano CN-HG601-11, CN-HG701-11 and CN-HG901-11 11-speed chains. Alternatively KMC X11 and DLC11 chains are also compatible.

Classified 12 speed cassettes are designed to operate with Shimano CN-M8100-12, CN-M7100-12, SRAM CN-FRC-D1
Alternatively KMC X12 and DLC12 chains are also compatible.

Classified 13 speed cassettes are designed to operate with Campagnolo C13

The hubshell is interchangeable, is it easy to change?

Yes. There's a lockring under the brake disc that keeps the hubshell attached to the inner hub and driver assembly. This lockring is compatible with your standard cassette lockring tool and a hub swap can be done in as little as a few minutes. Please consult the manual for a detailed hub swap procedure.

The 142mm Powershift hub and the 148mm Powershift boost hub are not interchangeable.

What disc brakes are compatible?

For the 142mm Powershift hub (Road & Gravel): Centre Lock disc brakes only.

For the 148mm Powershift boost hub (MTB): Centre Lock disc brakes and 6-bolt disc brakes.

Can I fit the transmitter module in any handlebar?

For Road & Gravel applications (with a dropbar):
No. The transmitter module is only compatible with Shimano Di2-spec handlebars with a hole for the wiring positioned near the end of the handlebar.

These are handlebars such as Pro Vibe alloy and Pro Vibe carbon.

Do not drill holes in your handlebars. This will void the warranty and can lead to injury or death.

For MTB applications (with a flat bar): Compatible with 22mm diameter flat bars.

Is it possible to connect the Classified Powershift system with my original shifters?

By default our Powershift set comes with our own sprint button (which was also tested and validated extensively by pro-riders), this way we can ensure maximal compatibility with minimal complexity, such that Classified Powershift can be used with existing groupsets (both electric/wireless & mechanical) of Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo (each with their own proprietary shifting lever technology).

In some cases when purchasing our system through an OEM, Shimano integration is taken care off from the factory. When performing this retrofit yourself – product warranty of the third party shifters is voided, for further questions please contact our help desk.”

It is not possible to connect the Classified system to Sram shifters.

What do I need to keep in mind when buying a new bike on which I want to install Classified wheelsets?

The frame of your new bike should have the following specifications:

  • Rear hub width of 142mm. Front hub width of 100mm.
  • Flatmount disc brakes of 140 or 160mm.
  • 1X chainring upfront

When choosing the groupset to combine with a Classified POWERSHIFT hub, keep in mind that Classified cassettes are compatible with 11 or 12 speed rear derailleurs of Shimano or SRAM, preferably with clutch. Make sure the maximum sprocket capacity of your rear derailleur fits the chosen Classified cassette. By making use of a separate shift button, both mechanical and electronical rear derailleurs are compatible with a Classified cassette.

Which rear derailleurs are compatible with Classified cassettes?

Classified cassettes are compatible with Shimano or SRAM 11 or 12 speed rear derailleurs, and Campagnolo 11, 12 and 13 speed rear derailleurs, preferably with a clutch. Make sure the maximum sprocket capacity of your rear derailleur fits the chosen Classified cassette. By making use of a separate shift button, both mechanical and electronic rear derailleurs are compatible with a Classified cassette.

Can I use my own thru-axle with the Classified hub?

No. The Classified hub can only be used with the Classified thru-axle. Using any other thru-axle will impair functionality and voids warranty.

The reason is two-fold. First the Classified thru-axle contains the battery and electronics to power the Classified hub. Without it, the hub is not able to shift. Secondly, the Classified Thru-Axle secures the Classified hub's axle to the frame to enable it to support the torque load, which is required for proper functionality and is fundamentally different to regular hubs.

Is Classified compatible with Ebikes

Classified can be used on Electric Road & Gravel bikes if they meet the above compatibility requirements, with the below additions:

For 142mm hub:

minimum 40T chainring use (all applications)

maximum 11-34T cassette use (for E-bike, non-Ebike an 11-40T can be used)

maximum 70Nm mid motor drive 

148mm hub:

minimum 30T chainring use (all applications)

maximum 11-40T cassette use (all applications)

Wireless

Do I need to pair my hub and thru-axle everytime I take out and reinstall my rear wheel or change to another Classified hub?

No. Pairing is only done between the handlebar unit and thru-axle. If you swap a Classified hub with another Classified hub, the pairing is not impaired. In other words: after a wheel-change you can set off immediately.

Can I pair my Classified hub to my ANT + cycling computer?

Yes, you can use through ANT+ to display the Classified hub gear-status on any/most ANT+ computers. For pairing, refer to the instructions of the ANT+ computer.

General

Can I mount my bikepacking rack on the Classified Thru-Axle?

Unfortunately our axles are not compatible with 3d party racks – the current design of the axles includes soft- and hardware making it impossible to modify it to fit such racks.

We keep working on the best possible products that our customers want, so hopefully this is something that we can accommodate in the future.

Why does it only have two gears?

By offering 2 gears in combination with a regular derailleur setup, we can offer both a wide range and small gear steps just like you're used to. But by removing the front derailleur you get the dependability and performance you've always wanted.

Our goal is to optimise the drivetrain for performance. This means efficiency, durability and intuitive functionality. We see chain-based drivetrains as a solid platform to achieve this, but we want to remove its weakest link, the front derailleur, as it lacks dependability. Classified offers a wide gear range combined with small gear steps, which was only possible previously using a front derailleur. This is why the Classified hub is operated just like a regular 2x-setup.

Can I use sattelite buttons to shift the Classified hub?

Yes, a satellite shift button is included when buying a Classified wheelset.

For MTB applications, we designed a Ringshifter to trigger the Powershift.

How do I check my battery status?

Both the handlebar unit and thru-axle have an LED that will light up upon shifting. The LED colour lets you know the charge state of the batteries. (Green is OK, Red is 20% charge remaining)

Will I need to replace batteries?

The battery in the Thru-axle is rechargeable. A fully charged battery will give you 3 to 6 months of use between charges (actual battery performance can be impacted by several external factors such as temperature etc.)

For dropbars (using the handlebar unit): The transmitter module in the handlebar has a coin cell (CR1632) and will last at least one full year before needing replacement. Replacing this battery is possible without having to remove your handlebar tape.

For flat bars (using the ring shifter): No, the battery is rechargeable with a proprietary cable included in the Powershift package.

If I want to service the bearing in the hub or driver, what do I have to do?

If you experience play on your Classified hub, contact us and we will get you back on your bike as soon as possible (see service & warranty terms).

Where can I get service/spare parts?

We want you to ride hassle-free. If for any reason you think your Classified product isn't performing as it did when it was new, contact us and we will get you back on two wheels as soon as possible.

Can I buy a second wheelset compatible with Classified?

Yes, seperate hubshells will soon be available through our webshop. A matching front hub will also be offered so you can select your own rims and create a complete wheelset to complement your Classified-optimised ride.

What maintenance is required?

None. The hub's internals are desiged to be maintainance-free.

Wheel bearings are, however, subject to wear as with any other hub, and can be replaced. If you experience play on your Classified hub, contact us and we will get you back on your bike as soon as possible (see service & warranty terms).

Can I also use standard wheels/hubs on my bike if I use a Classified hub?

Yes, you will need to replace the torque insert on the left dropout with a conventional insert, which is supplied with the bike.

What size chainring do I need?

Classified hubs are optimised for 1X chainrings (minimal 40T for Road & Gravel applications using the 142mm Powershift hub. minimal 30T for MTB applications using the 148mm Powershift boost hub)

Classified is designed to be flexible, so you can tailor it to your own needs. As a general guide, we suggest you choose a chainring similar to your current big ring for the same size cassette.

Please observe compatibility with your crank and also check for the required clearances for the chain and chainrings for your frame manufacturer.

Can I combine it with a Powermeter?

Yes, Classified can be combined with any crank or pedal based powermeters that fit your frame.

How do I clean it?

You can use your normal bike-cleaning-routine, using mild detergents and a gentle hose down.

As for all bike equipement, we strongly recommend that you do not use any high-pressure or steam cleaning machines such as pressure washers.

What is the durability?

The Classified hub has an operational lifespan exceeding the lifespan of a bicycle’s internal systems, and it requires no maintainance.

Bearings are subject to normal wear and can be replaced.

If for any reason you think your Classified product isn't performing as it did when it was new, contact us and we will get you back on two wheels as soon as possible. (See service & spare parts).

Why is Classified better than a front derailleur?

Classified hubs replace the functionality of a front-derailleur, hence it's ratio is similar. Combined with our cassette options you can have both a wide range and small gear steps, while also retaining the big-step or bail-out functionality that you would have with a front-derailleur setup. At the same time it does away with chain deraillement typically associated with front derailleurs and thus provides more reliable, consistent and faster shifting under pedaling loads regardless of the circumstances you are in.

What is the lifespan of your cassettes?

Classified cassettes are machined from solid blocks of high grade tool hardened Chromoly-steel. This enables us to create lightweight cassettes with very high durability. Using a high-grade chain (see chain-compatibility section) will ensure you many kilometres of hard use.

How quick does it shift?

Classified shifts faster than anything on the market. The hub will shift within 0,15 seconds.

Can I shift under load?

Yes, Classified is unique as it can shift under load. You do not have to hold back, or stop pedaling to shift. It is designed to shift even under loads of up to 1000 watts. Futhermore, you can shift while coasting (and back pedaling). And even when standing still - the hub will complete the shift as soon as you start rolling. This all means faster, trouble-free shifting each time, over and over again.

Can I change my crank or chainring?

Classified hubs are optimised for 1X chainrings (minimal 40T for Road & Gravel applications using the 142mm Powershift hub. minimal 30T for MTB applications using the 148mm Powershift boost hub)

Classified is designed to be flexible, so you can tailor it to your own needs. As a general guide, we suggest you choose a chainring similar to your current big ring for the same size cassette.

Please observe compatibility with your crank and also check for the required clearances for the chain and chainrings for your frame manufacturer.

Can I use it for bikepacking?

Yes! Classified hubs can be a great asset when climbing those steep hills with your bike fully loaded. If you're planning to ride for more than 3 months without going home, be sure to pack a micro USB charging cable so you can charge the Classified Thru Axle while sheltering from rain or checking in with your loved ones back home. You can be back on the road within an hour.

Technical

How do I prevent chaindrop?

1. Is your chainring specific for 1x drivetrains?

1x chainrings have a narrow-wide tooth pattern that fits the narrow and wider links on a chain. Using a chainring made for shifting will greatly increase your chances of dropping a chain.

2. Is your chain in good condition?

Generally, you should replace your chain when the wear is close to or over 0.5- 0.75%. A chain that is worn too far will not sit on the chainring correctly. To read more about chain wear and how to measure it, we kindly refer to this article.

3. Is the length of your chain correct?

If your chain is not shortened to the correct length when installing, it could be too loose and not be held up to the correct tension over the chainring. Refer to the manual of your derailleur for the correct chain length. Since the Classified system is based on one chainring, you will need to apply the chain length for a 1x system.

4. Does your rear derailleur have a clutch mechanism/Is your derailleur clutch switched on?

A clutch is a mechanism in a rear derailleur that pulls the bottom section of chain between the derailleur and chainring taught. If your derailleur doesn’t have a clutch, we strongly suggest you upgrade to a model that does or mount a chain guide for additional security. On clutch-equipped SRAM rear derailleurs the clutch is always activated. On Shimano rear derailleurs you have to activate them by flipping the Stabilizer switch upward.

5. Is the tension on the B-screw correct?

The B-screw adjusts the distance between the top derailleur pulley wheel and the cassette. If this distance is too small, and the chain is at the correct length, the tension on the chain can be too low. Please refer to the manual of your rear derailleur to determine the correct distance between pulley and cassette.

6. Is your chain line correct?

In extreme cases it could be that the chainring isn’t mounted at the correct chain line. Chain line is directly linked to the design of your frame and the components mounted to it. In general, if you look at your drivetrain from the rear and the chainring only lines up with the largest or the smallest sprocket of your cassette, you might have an issue. In that case the chain will be pulling to one side in almost every gear, causing extreme cross-chaining angles. If you think this might be an issue, we suggest you take your bike to one of our competent Classified Dealers and take a deeper look at the cause of this chain line.

For specific use and to offer the highest level of security, for instance when using on very rough terrain or in racing situations, we advise to use a chain guide.

If these suggestions don’t solve your chaindrop issues, we also recommend to install a chain guide on your chainring. Out of the guides that we’ve tested with our system, we have had the best experiences with the K-Edge Chain Guide.

When holding the hub in my hand, I notice some (lateral) play, is this normal?

The lateral play from is normal, and will also be gone once the hub is fixed in the frame with the thru-axle – it allows the bearings to ‘position’ themselves.

Tightening the thru axle secures the bearings and ensures they are seated/tensioned properly. This phenomenon can also be seen and is common in “singlespeed” hubs.

What is the optimum chain length to use the Powershift Boost hub with my Mountainbike rear derailleur?

For long cage derailleurs, install the chain on front chainring and the largest cassette sprocket (without passing the chain through the derailleur)
Measure the chain length needed as described in the groupset manual. Add 5-6 links so the last link is a narrow link.

For medium cage derailleurs*, install the chain on front chainring and the largest cassette sprocket (without passing the chain through the derailleur)
Measure the chain length needed as described in the groupset manual. Add 3-4 links so the last link is a narrow link.

*for TRP medium cage derailleurs use the chain length as described in the groupset manual without adding extra links.

Can I use it for bikepacking?

Yes! Classified hubs can be a great asset when climbing those steep hills with your bike fully loaded. If you're planning to ride for more than 3 months without going home, be sure to pack a micro USB charging cable so you can charge the Classified Thru Axle while sheltering from rain or checking in with your loved ones back home. You can be back on the road within an hour.

Do I need a specific cassette?

Yes, Classified uses a proprietary cassette for increased durability and lighter weight. We offer several options so you can optimise your drive train to suit your riding style.

Why does it only have two gears?

By offering 2 gears in combination with a regular derailleur setup, we can offer both a wide range and small gear steps just like you're used to. But by removing the front derailleur you get the dependability and performance you've always wanted.

Our goal is to optimise the drivetrain for performance. This means efficiency, durability and intuitive functionality. We see chain-based drivetrains as a solid platform to achieve this, but we want to remove its weakest link, the front derailleur, as it lacks dependability. Classified offers a wide gear range combined with small gear steps, which was only possible previously using a front derailleur. This is why the Classified hub is operated just like a regular 2x-setup.

The gear ratio/set size of the Powershift hub (1:1 ratio in the virtual big gear, and 1:0.686 ratio in the virtual small gear) is also optimised for Powershifting.

How quick does it shift?

Classified shifts faster than anything on the market.

The hub will shift within 0,15 seconds.

If I want to service the bearing in the hub or driver, what do I have to do?

If you experience play on your Classified hub, contact us and we will get you back on your bike as soon as possible (see service & warranty terms).

Classified cassette choice

Road/Gravel:

Here we offer the same cassette choices as other drivetrain providers (Shimano, SRAM etc.) with the same gearing range as a traditional 2x system. Combined with a 1x system, the Powershift hub extends the range of gears whilst minimizing the step size between gears and reducing extreme cross chaining, making the overall drivetrain more efficient.

MTB

Combining the Powershift Boost hub with our 11-40 cassette not only matches but improves the range of other larger cassette options on the market, when ridden with a traditional 1x system. However the Classified system reduces the average gear steps from 16% to 10.5%, hence why we developed the 11-40 cassette.

Running a tighter cassette also helps maintain a a straighter chainline and reduces extreme cross training, thereby making the system more efficient and more durable. This is why we have not developed a huge cassette like a 10-52.

Classified is very open to discussing cassette options and will always listen to feedback from riders.

How efficient is the hub?

Very efficient! More efficient than a 1x and 2x setup.

Compared to a 1x, less cross chaining is required, sprocket and chainring sizes are larger and thus chain tension, crank and hub bearing losses are lower. Compared to a 2x; the fact that the 0.7 ratio of the hub still uses the large chainring in front, results in 30% less chain tension and thus lower chain, crank and hub bearing losses.

On top of this you will experience that you will use the Classified hub much more frequent than a normal front derailleur, this means that in practice you will have less cross chain losses. The hub does not have any additional losses on in the 1:1 ratio, and is designed to have extremely low losses in the 0.7 ratio which are completely balanced out by the big chainring and straighter chainline by using a Classified setup.

You can read more about Classified's efficiency measurements on this link.

What is the durability?

The Classified hub has an operational lifespan exceeding the lifespan of a bicycle’s internal systems, and it requires no maintainance.

Bearings are subject to normal wear and can be replaced.

If for any reason you think your Classified product isn't performing as it did when it was new, contact us and we will get you back on two wheels as soon as possible. (See service & spare parts)

What does it weigh?

A Classified equipped bike has a similar weight to a bike with a traditional 2x electronic groupset equipped with a traditional reference hub (eg. DT Swiss 350). To be more concrete, a bike equipped with Classified and 1x GRX Di2 weighs the same (+-10g) as a bike with a traditional 2x11 GRX Di2 groupset and a DT Swiss 350 hub. The bike setup used by our initial partner: Classified in combination with a Rotor Aldhu 1x crank, is up to 70g lighter than the same bike with a traditional 2x11 GRX Di2 groupset and a DT Swiss 350 hub.

In general, the weight remains the same, but some differences can occur, both lighter and heavier, depending on the groupset you’re currently riding/comparing to. (i.e if you're running a Dura Ace electronic 2x11 groupset you will see a small increase in weight). However, the the total setup with Classified is always more efficient due to improved aerodynamics, less extreme cross chaining and reduced chain tension.

Powershift Boost Hub:

We have compared the total weight of the Classified system vs other popular systems with similar level wheelsets:

  • Classified system weight (Wheelset Classified): 2127g
  • Shimano XT system weight (Wheelset DT XRC1501): 2056g
  • Shimano XTR system weight (Wheelset DT XRC1501): 1950g
  • SRAM GX system weight (Wheelset DT XRC1501): 2035g
  • SRAM XX1 system weight (Wheelset DT XRC1501): 1957g

What is the lifespan of your cassettes?

Classified cassettes are machined from solid blocks of high grade tool hardened Chromoly-steel. This enables us to create lightweight cassettes with very high durability. Using a high-grade chain (see chain-compatibility section) will ensure you many kilometres of hard use.

Can I shift under load?

Yes, Classified is unique as it can shift under load. You do not have to hold back, or stop pedaling to shift. It is designed to shift even under loads of up to 1000 watts. Futhermore, you can shift while coasting (and back pedaling). And even when standing still - the hub will complete the shift as soon as you start rolling. This all means faster, trouble-free shifting each time, over and over again.

Wheels and hubs are interchangeable, are they easy to change?

Yes, there is a lock ring under the disc brake that keeps the wheel attached to the hub. This lock ring is compatible with a cassette lock ring tool. The hub and/or wheel can be swapped in as little as a few minutes. Please consult the manual for a detailed description of a hub swap procedure.

The 142mm Powershift hub and the 148mm Powershift boost hub are not interchangeable.

Aren't internal gears for city bikes?

No, when designed properly, they can be highly efficient. We used our background in automotive transmission development to optimise tooth geometry, material selection and production methods with high performance, low weight and durability as the key design goals. On every aspect, we've gone the distance, as we know they all add up to make a huge difference. Our gearing is unlike any other on the market, you cannot feel it. Which is exactly what you want.

What is the gear ratio?

The ratio is similar to what you'd find on a 2x-setup. The ratio is roughly equivalent to 53/36, 50/34 or 48/33 chainrings.

The hub has two speeds. In Direct Drive it is 1:1; meaning the cassette and hub have the same speed. In Under Drive it has a ratio of 0,686, which means that for each revolution on the cassette, the wheel rotates 0,686 revolutions. We call this 0.7. Under Drive effectively replaces the smaller chainring on a regular 2x-crankset.

What is the engagement angle of the hub?

In the 1 to 1 ratio there are 40 engagement points (9° engagement angle).  

In the reduction gear – where the engagement angle matters most – we have an engagement angle close to 6° with 60 “virtual” engagement points.

Service

If I want to service the bearing in the hub or driver, what do I have to do?

If you experience play on your Classified hub, contact us and we will get you back on your bike as soon as possible (see service & warranty terms).

Will I need to replace batteries?

The battery in the Thru-axle is rechargeable. A fully charged battery will give you 3 to 6 months of use between charges (actual battery performance can be impacted by several external factors such as temperature etc.)

For dropbars (using the handlebar unit): The transmitter module in the handlebar has a coin cell (CR1632) and will last at least one full year before needing replacement. Replacing this battery is possible without having to remove your handlebar tape.

For flatbars (using the ring shifter): No, the battery is rechargeable with a proprietary cable included in the Powershift package.

What maintenance is required?

None. The hub's internals are desiged to be maintainance-free.

Wheel bearings are, however, subject to wear as with any other hub, and can be replaced. If you experience play on your Classified hub, contact us and we will get you back on your bike as soon as possible (see service & warranty terms).

What is the durability?

The Classified hub has an operational lifespan exceeding the lifespan of a bicycle’s internal systems, and it requires no maintainance.

Bearings are subject to normal wear and can be replaced.

If for any reason you think your Classified product isn't performing as it did when it was new, contact us and we will get you back on two wheels as soon as possible. (See service & spare parts)

Do you have questions?

play icon careers
Contact us