BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Classified Cycling, the Belgium-based cycling drivetrain technology innovator, took to the start line at the Tour de France this past weekend.
During Sunday’s final stage, which, for the first time since 1989, was an individual time trial, the brand saw Ineos Grenadiers utilise Classified’s Powershift Hub technology with a Princeton CarbonWorks disc wheel, on their TT bikes.
The team had previously ridden Classified equipped bikes during this year’s Giro d’Italia TT, with 4 riders featuring in the top 10 on the stage.
By supporting a WorldTour team in such high-stakes environments, Classified is looking to further demonstrate the capabilities of its products on the world’s most competitive stage.
The Powershift Hub is an electronically shifted gear system enclosed within the rear hub. In time trials it improves aerodynamics when compared to traditional set-ups and reduces drivetrain forces, resulting in improved speed and efficiency.
Disc wheels and Classified Cycling
Beyond the Tour de France, Classified equipped disc wheels have also featured in Ironman events with Parcours-sponsored athletes including Ruth Astle having used the Powershift Hub to great effect.
2023 saw Parcour become the first UK brand to partner with Classified, developing wheelsets around the Belgium brand’s product.
A technological powerhouse
Classified, headquartered in Antwerp, Belgium, has achieved remarkable growth in recent years, attracting global investment in excess of €30 million and cycling legends such as Tom Boonen, André Greipel, Marcel Kittel, Philippe Gilbert and Anna Van der Breggen also buying into the brand.
Award-winning innovation
At the largest and most prestigious cycling expo in Europe, Eurobike, Classified’s upcoming VISTAR // Powershift groupset was showcased and received the top honour as the show winner in the Components category.
This ground-breaking groupset product, offers seamless electronic shifting with its 1X16 setup, catering for both road and gravel cyclists, offers more gears, and the widest gear range on the market. This is the second time Classified has received this award, having also won it in 2021 when the Powershift Hub was first released.
Looking Ahead
As Classified continues to push the boundaries of innovation, its participation in the Tour de France represents a significant milestone. The company’s dedication to advancing cycling technology and embracing new markets ensures that Classified remains at the forefront of the industry.
