If you’ve been holding out on Classified’s internally geared hubs because you didn’t want to add a separate shifter pod to your drop bars, then get ready to upgrade.
The Classified Powershift hubs are now compatible with Shimano Di2 drop bar shifter levers, letting you integrate the sleek (and amazingly quick) shifting into your existing Di2 road or gravel bike.
It’s a free firmware update from Classified, and it’s part of Shimano’s Connected Partners program, so it’s got the official nod from the Japanese drivetrain brand.
Backwards Compatible…all the way back!
It works with any Shimano Di2 shifter, too, even the original 11-speed groups as long as you have the D-Fly wireless transmitter plugged into your system.
Just download the latest Classified app (iOS and Android), update your hub, and you’ll see the option to connect to Di2. From there, you can fire up the Shimano E-Tube Project app and customize the shift settings just like you would with a full Shimano drivetrain, including the use of satellite buttons. The only thing it won’t do is work with Shimano’s Synchronized Shift mode.
FWIW, TRP just barely beat Shimano to this punch on this with their Vistar groups, which were announced last year but just started shipping. Soooo, waiting on you SRAM.
Wait, what is Classified Powershift hub?
Need to brush up on Classified’s tech? Check out our original tech story here. No time? Here’s the gist of it: Their Powershift hub puts a wirelessly controlled electronic shifting hub in your rear wheel, replacing the front derailleur and double chainring.
The gear ratios mimic a 1:1 ratio to match whatever chainring size you put up front, and a “little ring” approximating of 70% of that 1:1 ratio.
The benefits are faster “front” shifts and a more aerodynamic setup. It also fits virtually any modern road and gravel bike.
The system does require you to use their cassettes, however they have options that match up with most popular Shimano & SRAM gearing. And they have a LOT of major wheel partners willing to build wheels around the Powershift hub, so you’re not really giving up options to switch to their system.
