Drivetrain specialist, Classified, has got together with cycling components firm, TRP, to unveil the VISTAR // Powershift electronic road and gravel groupset. Initially on show at Eurobike in Frankfurt, Germany, a full product launch is scheduled at the end of Q3 2024.
The new 1x setup is available in a 1×16 model for road and a 1×15 version for gravel. According to Classified… ‘it sets a new precedent in high-performance drivetrains, providing superior efficiency and durability, and the widest-range road and gravel groupset on the market.’
Focusing on a simpler drivetrain with more functionality, as a strategic collaboration between Classified and TRP, VISTAR // Powershift has a unique and innovative setup. It combines new, intuitive QuantumShift gearing with Classified’s integrated Powershift Technology, enabling cyclists to enjoy the ease of a 1x drivetrain with all the advantages of a 2x system (and no need for a front derailleur).
The groupset’s 1x configuration simplifies gearing. The single front chainring and close ratio, 12-speed cassette creates a clean and low-maintenance setup, and by utilising QuantumShift, riders can enjoy smart shifting using integrated buttons on a single brake lever, taking them though 15 or 16 unique gears.
The choice is also available for riders to shift the Powershift hub and derailleur independently, enabling all 24 gear options.
Classified adds that… ‘A range of >530% (using a 11-40T cassette) is truly unrivalled, the widest on the market, and ensures riders always find the right gear, whatever the gradient.’
Shifting for the entire groupset, including Classified’s two-speed Powershift Hub, is wirelessly controlled by VISTAR’s brake levers via TRP’s wireless CMD (Command) protocol. This combination is claimed to produce a new type of precise and responsive shifting.
TRP has over 35 years’ experience producing advanced braking systems. VISTAR’s innovative, ergonomically designed hoods and levers enable powerful, one-finger braking, irrespective of hand size, enhancing riders’ safety and confidence on the bike.
The benefit of no front derailleur in the new set-up is that it enables maximum performance by minimising aerodynamic drag. VISTAR // Powershift’s 1x solution allows riders to push bigger gears and reduces friction and energy loss whilst optimising drivetrain efficiency through smarter, straighter chainline management. The Wave Technology built into the TRP cassette also provides direct and quick shifting.
Shifting is possible when stationary or even when sprinting at full power, changing how riders interact with their gears and simplifying their overall riding experience.
The ability to ride with one large chainring meanwhile, also reduces the load on the chain, cassette and bearings, improving the lifetime of each component.
Thanks to its unique drivetrain topology, VISTAR // Powershift is designed to operate on road and gravel, providing consistent, ultra-reliable performance and the right gear choice on either terrain.
Riders can choose between two new chainsets: the Classified aero chainset, which offers increased aerodynamics and efficiency, or the gossamer styling of the VISTAR chainset.
Classified CEO Mathias Plouvier said “We have spent two years collaborating with TRP on this groundbreaking product and are excited to showcase the VISTAR // Powershift groupset for the first time.
“Both Classified and TRP share the same strategic vision about pushing the boundaries of drivetrain technologies and we have achieved our goal of creating a pioneering product that not only is fast, efficient and durable, but also offers the widest gear range on the market.”
TRP CEO Leo Chen added “We’re proud to have joined forces with Classified on our first electronic drop bar road and gravel groupset.
“Both companies are driven to disrupt the market with innovative, new technologies, and with VISTAR // Powershift, we have delivered a unique groupset that provides top-tier 2x performance with all the benefits of a 1x system.”
www.classified-cycling.cc
www.trpcycling.com
