Classified
Classified is a Belgian drivetrain-technology company, founded in 2019 in Antwerp by engineers with a background in automotive transmissions (co-founder and CTO Dr. Roell van Druten). Its flagship innovation is the Powershift Hub: a wireless, internal two-speed gearbox built directly into the rear hub shell. Rather than adding a front derailleur, Powershift places a sealed planetary gearset in the hub that toggles between a 1:1 direct drive and a 0.686 underdrive reduction, effectively acting as a replacement for the front derailleur. The result gives a 1x drivetrain the gear range of a 2x setup, while keeping a clean single chainring and a straight, efficient chainline. The hub shifts electronically in about 150 milliseconds and, uniquely, can change gear instantly under full load, at power outputs beyond 1000 watts, so riders can shift while sprinting or climbing out of the saddle without easing off. Control is fully wireless: a handlebar transmitter signals a receiver integrated into Classified's own Smart thru-axle. Backed by a 22-million-euro funding round and endorsed by cycling great Tom Boonen, Classified targets road, gravel and cross-country mountain biking, and is developing further multi-speed hubs and e-bike drivetrains.