Classified, maker of the 2-speed Powershift internal hub gets its own customizable mobile smartphone app. But why do you need an app when the virtual front derailleur only shifts back-and-forth between a high and a low gear? Classified says it is so you can “assign custom actions to your shifters” and keep tabs on battery levels. But we wanted to know more…
Classified smartphone App brings new custom control to Powershift hubs
The new Classified App for wireless shifting Powershift hub users is meant to give cyclists more control and new features, with the aim of “revolutionizing the way riders interact with the cutting-edge powertrain systems”. That seems like a bit of a grandiose statement for a system that only really has two mode – on or off.
The Powershift hub is simply a planetary reduction gear inside your rear hub that replaces a front derailleur. In OFF mode, you get direct drive from your chainring to the rear cassette. In ON mode, the planetary gears engage and you get a 68.6% gearing reduction, effectively recreating a little chainring without the hassles of aero drag of a traditional 2x setup.
So what’s new?
Classified says their new smartphone App adds three new core features:
- Assign custom actions to your shifters
- Check battery level
- Update firmware & create bike profile
Customizing shift button(s) may seem a bit unnecessary when you just have a single shift – up or down. But not all Classified-equipped bikes get just one shift button. For example, many bikes that come with an OEM Powershift setup feature Shimano Di2, with the system wired into the stock shifters. The new app means those users can flip up or down shift buttons, or simply select Toggle mode where either button shifts to the opposite Powershift gear. Apparently aftermarket upgrades can also be wired into Di2, but voiding warranties. Unfortunately, it seems no SRAM shifters can control the Classified Powershift hub yet.
Battery level is pretty straight forward. Before you had to rely on LED colors. Now you get precise charge status. The rechargeable rear axle controller is said to last 3-6 months. The drop bar satellite shifter runs for a year on a replaceable (disposable) CR1632 batter for “at least” a year. The MTB ring shifter has a rechargeable battery, and is good for 10,000 shifts before recharging.
Firmware updates, while sometimes annoying, are an un avoidable part of modern electronics. Now it’s easier than ever to keep your Classified Powershift system up to date. It might even get better or more energy efficient over time with over-the-air updates.
Get updated now with the Classified Mobile App
As always, connection is via Bluetooth with modern iOS or Android smartphones. The new Classified Mobile App is available now for free on the app store of your choice, or via Classified.
