Classified Powershift drivetrain review: a revolution in shifting

During this test phase, we had the opportunity to evaluate the Classified Powershift system in real conditions, which allowed us to better understand its capabilities and potential on the road. Our tests were conducted over several rides on our usual routes, thus offering a precise perspective of its operation and its impact on the riding experience. If the name Classified is familiar to you, it’s because the brand has been highlighted by several former champions such as Philippe Gilbert, Tom Boonen, and Anna Van der Breggen, although it was only founded in 2019.

The complete Classified 12V 11-34 kit

What is the Classified system? In summary, the Powershift allows you to benefit from a double drivetrain, but without a front derailleur and with a single chainring. The system integrates an electronically controlled drivetrain within the hub. This drivetrain offers a 1:1 and 0.7:1 ratio actuated by a button placed on the handlebar, which replaces changing from one chainring to another with a classic drivetrain. A smart thru-axle allows it to receive the wireless signal from the shifter to send the signal to the hub.

We had never tried this concept before. We had only heard the designer and his ambassadors on their social networks promising a remarkable advance in the field of bicycle drivetrains. “By eliminating the traditional front derailleur, the kit significantly reduces aerodynamic drag and efficiency losses due to chain cross-chaining“: this is what Tom Boonen said in an Instagram video, thus offering – we deduce – a smoother and more efficient riding experience.

“Thanks to its satellite shift button and smart thru-axle, the system allows instant gear changes, in just 150 milliseconds, even under full load up to 1000 watts” indicates the technical sheet on the brand’s website, which we translated into French.

With an ultimate gear range of 24 speeds and a development range of up to 530%, the Classified Powershift offers unparalleled versatility a priori, and is therefore suitable for all riding situations. In addition, its waterproof design ensures reliable operation in all weather conditions, without compromising its competitive weight compared to traditional electronic groupsets. We inquired at Materiel Vélo in Herblay with Fred and Dany, with whom we have our habits, and they explained that the system is available in different installation options, from mounting on a new bike to integration on custom wheels or Powershift-compatible bikes. This revolutionary system thus opens up new perspectives for cyclists looking to push their limits on the road.

Four possible options to equip yourself with the Classified Powershift

Option 1 – The first option offers the Powershift system accompanied by a set of Classified wheels, providing a turnkey solution including the Powershift hub, a Classified cassette of your choice, and Classified wheels, all available from authorized dealers for €2,599.

Option 2 – The second option allows you to purchase the Powershift system alone from official dealers and install it on Powershift-compatible wheels from their partner wheel manufacturers, for an amount of €1,299.

Option 3 – The third option consists of acquiring the Powershift system alone for €1,399 from official dealers, thus offering the possibility of installing it on custom wheels according to individual preferences.

Option 4 – Finally, the fourth option offers the possibility of acquiring bikes fully equipped with the Classified Powershift system, thanks to an exclusive partnership with high-end bicycle manufacturers, at variable prices depending on the chosen model.

Some additional technical characteristics concerning the Classified Powershift CF R35 wheels:

• Front and rear wheelset for tubed tires
• Hope RS4 or DT Swiss 240 DBCL front hub depending on availability
• 24 DT Swiss Aerolite SP spokes
• Single or double chainring use
• Internal rim width 19 mm
• External width 27 mm
• Tubeless Ready compatible
• Tire size 25 to 32 mm
• Ratio of 1:1 and 0.7:1
• Switch for drivetrain management (small/large chainring)
• Delivered with thru-axle compatible with all frames
• Only compatible with Classified monobloc cassettes (to be ordered separately)
• Rim depth 35mm
• Weight: 1315 g without the Powershift (250 g)

We therefore tested the first option at €2,599 on a Ceepo Stinger bike equipped with Sram Rival 12s.

Discreet and minimalist

One of the most impressive features of the Powershift is also its ability to reduce the number of gear changes required in unexpected situations. During our test rides, we were surprised by the ease with which the system allows switching from one position to another, offering a smooth and rapid transition without disrupting our pedaling cadence. This proved particularly beneficial during steep climbs or, as one might imagine, during technical sections in a race where it is important to quickly drop the chainring or, conversely, to relaunch immediately after a climb, and we are quite certain that we would have appreciated it even more in competition in situations where the Powershift would have allowed us to maintain our momentum without compromising the fluidity of our riding style.

Regarding reliability and durability, the Classified Powershift system demonstrated solid performance throughout our test period. We encountered no major operating problems, and the system maintained its precision and responsiveness even in varied weather conditions. In fact, at the end of May, we completed a 100 km ride on the winding roads of the Vexin, half of which was in pouring rain. In addition, the robust design of the system and its compatibility with existing components on the market offer additional assurance as to its long-term longevity.

Regarding battery recharging, the process seems simple and practical, with the possibility of recharging the Ringshifter directly on the bike’s handlebar. This feature is particularly appreciated, as it ensures that the system is always ready for use without requiring disassembly or additional handling.

From our point of view, the Ceepo Stinger bike equipped for the test with Sram Rival 12-speed and Classified wheels that accompanied the system, although all three offered acceptable performance, did not reach the level of refinement expected with such a drivetrain. We found the bike a bit heavy and lacking in responsiveness. A shame. However, the possibility of using the Classified hub with other rim models offers increased flexibility for cyclists looking for specific performance in the field.

Finally, in terms of weight, the system does not provide a significant gain if you add up the replaced components. The front derailleur, small chainring, a traditional hub, a thru-axle, and a classic cassette weigh about the same as the complete high-end Classified system. In the case of a groupset like Sram Rival, there may be a slight advantage with the Powershift, as Rival components are quite heavy.

Our verdict

The Classified Powershift system represents a significant advance in the field of road bike drivetrains. Its innovative design and versatility offer cyclists an improved riding experience, with a gear range adapted to every situation and a smooth transition between the different positions of the system. With its proven reliability and ease of use, the Powershift positions itself as an attractive option for those seeking performance and comfort on the road.

Our in-depth test period revealed the many advantages and few limitations of this cutting-edge technology. The Classified Powershift system stands out for its discreet and intuitive design, offering harmonious integration into the bike’s cockpit. The control ring, the Ringshifter, ensures intuitive handling, thus facilitating rapid adaptation. During our tests on a variety of courses, the Powershift demonstrated its ability to offer a gear range adapted to every situation.