Classified has unveiled three new gravel and road wheel models compatible with its Powershift drivetrain system, along with the launch of the Classified x Ridley Factory Team.
Classified entered the gravel circuit in 2023 and until recently sponsored a one-man team in the shape of Dutchman Piotr Havik. Now, the company is lending its name to a full-fledged team of five gravel riders, including Havik; Belgian Daan Grosemans; and Brits Toby Perry, Annabel Fisher, and Freya Rawlins.
The team, dubbed the Classified x Ridley Factory Team, will race an international schedule, including the UCI Gravel World Series and the Gravel Earth Series, an international tie-up of seven gravel races.
“Some big sponsors wanted to contribute their share to the Classified Factory Team, so we can now strengthen our one-man team and move up a gear with Classified-Ridley,” said Classified ambassador Tom Boonen.
“We are at the beginning of a very nice story. We strongly believe in the gravel scene and will continue to support it in the long term.
Mathias Plouvier, co-founder and CEO of Classified Cycling, said “Classified and Ridley have a heart for both gravel and innovation, and it’s great that our long-standing collaboration with the Belgian Cycling Factory is now taking on a new dimension.
“With nutritional specialist Foodmaker and bike rental company Cyclis also on board as co-sponsors, we will soon be sending a strong team to the first ever world championship on home soil.”
Classified Cycling’s Powershift hub eliminates the need for a front derailleur, with a wide range of gears available thanks to the hub’s shifting system. The wireless system is enclosed to protect it from dirt and mud that can often be found on the rugged roads and terrain of gravel events.
Back in 2020, Ridley was the first bike brand to equip the Classified system, starting on its Kanzo Fast gravel bike. Jochim Aerts, CEO of Belgian Cycling Factory (Ridley), said “Gravel racing is a discipline for everyone, shown by the success of our Kanzo Fast and Kanzo Adventure.
“The feedback of pro riders is highly valuable for us to keep optimizing, as we sell the exact same bikes to the public. We’re thrilled to be part of this team and look forward to its future and potential.”
For the new team, Classified is also launching a new range of wheels for both gravel and road bikes. The wheels are reportedly up to 12% lighter, up to 10% stiffer and 14% more aerodynamic than previous Classified wheel models.
- R36 – climbing wheel for road
- R50 – aero all-rounder
- G42 – for gravel
A wider rim profile and compatibility with lower pressure tyres provide more comfort and less rolling resistance. The new Classified gravel wheels have been tested by the Classified x Ridley Factory Team, which will use them immediately for the 2024 season.
