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ROSE Sneak 3 EQ Is First Bike to Get Q’AUTO Battery-less Auto-Shifting

ROSE Bikes Sneak 3 EQ hero(Photos / ROSE Bikes)
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Likely overshadowed by the launch of the new XTR Di2, Shimano’s new Q’AUTO was actually more surprising. Essentially a dynamo system that powers an electronic rear derailleur, Q’AUTO allows regular bikes to add automatic shifting without the need for additional batteries. Yesterday, Germany’s ROSE Bikes also launched their new Sneak 3 EQ, which is the first bike that we know of to feature the Q’AUTO system. More bikes are coming, though, so the list is sure to grow.

ROSE Bikes Sneak 3 EQ highstep faded blue
(Photos / ROSE Bikes)

Weighing in at a little over 33 lbs, the Sneak 3 EQ rocks a minimalist design while still offering a great ride without compromise. The bike uses clean lines with a purposeful “urban aesthetic”. It also sports a sturdy rear rack and kickstand, making it a perfect choice for everyday use.

Riding in bad weather or at night is not an issue with the Sneak 3 EQ’s built-in lighting. Helping get the weight down, and keeping the ride comfortable, a full carbon fork is equipped, along with large tires. Adding to the reliable Shimano drivetrain, ROSE spec’d Shimano brakes as well, making it safer to navigate those mean city streets.

The Highlight of the Sneak 3 EQ – Shimano’s Q’AUTO

Shimano’s Q’AUTO shifting is a definite spec highlight of the new Sneak 3 EQ. Q’AUTO works by using “high-precision” sensor tech. It recognizes speed, cadence, and incline in real time and shifts the gears accordingly.

ROSE Bikes Sneak 3 EQ auto shift

It offers a smooth auto-shifting experience without the need for a battery. The energy needed to move the rear derailleur is generated while riding, much like a dynamo hub works to power a front light. That means no charging and, better yet, no forgetting to charge, or losing your battery.

ROSE Bikes Sneak 3 EQ autoshift hub

It’s said that Q’AUTO not only can adapt to your chosen route, but it can also learn your riding behavior and adjust accordingly. Any manual corrections to the shifter will get saved and used for future shifts. This helps create a smooth and personalised riding experience.

ROSE Bikes Sneak 3 EQ QAUTO cassette body

There are also two modes available with the Q’AUTO system, automatic and manual. This adds to the Sneak 3 EQ flexibility and versatility, allowing the rider to adjust to different ride scenarios.

Sneak 3 EQ

The Sneak 3 EQ is an urban bike that combines the latest shifting tech and innovation with a minimalist approach to design. It offers a high level of functionality and versatility, and is purpose-built for life in the city.

ROSE Bikes Sneak 3 EQ cranks

The Sneak 3 EQ will be available from 4 June 2025 at 6 p.m. for €2,399. Available versions are the HighStep frame (sizes S to XL), with the colors Chalk and Faded Denim. The MidStep frame (sizes S to L) will be available in colors of Chalk and Light Mint.

ROSE Bikes Sneak 3 EQ corner

RoseBikes.com

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Doug B
Doug B
1 month ago

Does it also power the integrated lights, or is their a separate dynamo on front.
How do you change a tire or do maintenance with the power coming through the axel?

TypeVertigo
TypeVertigo
1 month ago
Reply to  Doug B

Seems like you disconnect the cable from the back of the rear derailleur before you take out the through-axle and remove the back wheel.

Which is kind of interesting, because other Di2 wires aren’t really meant to be removed or installed without Shimano’s special pronged Di2 cable tools. I wonder if this is gonna be different.

Also interesting how that exposed hard metal wire loop at the end of the hub plays into rear wheel removal, too.

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