ROTOR unveiled the world’s first 13-speed hydraulic drivetrain at Eurobike earlier this week.
Press Release
The world’s first groupset 13s hydraulic groupset for a simplified and performance optimised shifting experience.
The modular platform concept crosses 4 cycling disciplines ( MTB, Road, Gravel & Cyclocross ) with a flexible choice of drivetrain components to match your preferred bike set-up.
Why 2x11s equals a 14s Effective Gear Range?
The 1x drivetrain is currently viewed as an MTB only system because of the perceived gear range or the scale of power cadence available to the cyclist between gear shifts.
Although the traditional 2×11 groupset has 22 theoretical gears, the Effective Gear Range is 14s due to overlap of chainring and sprocket combinations.
Why 1×13?
Focused on simplifying the cyclist’s shifting experience ROTOR believes Road, Gravel & Cyclocross riders will follow MTB in the successful adoption of single ring (1x) drivetrain.
Combined with a wide choice of 1x chainring sizes (38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54) our 13s cassettes can match and improve gear range and gear steps of the traditional 2×11 drivetrains.
The science behind the gear ratios
The foundation of our faith in the one-by groupset configuration is firmly based in the unique aero design of the world’s first 13s cassette.
We have put the cyclist at the centre of our re-designed 1×13 transmission by analysing real user-data thanks to our sophisticated INpower power measurement technology.
Our engineers process the primary data in the fine-tuning of our drivetrain design to deliver the optimum cadence range and the best possible cycling experience.
What are the unique benefits?
1. Simplified shifting
Leave behind the anticipation for the challenging front derailleur shift in the crucial race moment to avoid chain loss or chain suck.
2. Alternative
Exclusive 1×13 platform is a real alternative in range and gear steps to the traditional 2×11 drivetrains.
3. Flexibility
Bigger gear range and more gear choices compared to existing MTB 1×12 systems.
4. Modular platform
Unique 1×13 modular platform concept fits different cycling needs with the choice of shifters, cassettes, optimised direct mount chainrings and cranks.
5. Lightweight
Simplified 1x chainring without front derailleur means reduced weight and mechanical complexity with improved aerodynamics.
6. Hydraulic actuation benefits
● Maintenance free: Install, Bleed, Forget. No cables to replace, no batteries to charge.
● Internal routing ready.
● Lighter than battery powered and mechanical systems.
● Hydraulic technology with proven reliability.
With 1×13 you can bypass the traditional challenging 2x front derailleur shift so you can focus on fluid rear shifting with reduced chance of chain loss or chain suck.
What about 1×13 on the Road / Gravel / Cyclocross?
ROTOR 1×13 platform brings a real alternative to the classic 2×11 drive trains; let’s compare a classic 2×11 (53/39 & 11-28) drivetrain with ROTOR 1×13 (50 & 10-39).
The 1×13 platform includes a range of 4 new cassette options for Road, Gravel, Cyclocross and MTB including sizes: 1 0-36, 10-39, 10-46 & 10-52 . Our 13s Cassette family has been developed to deliver the optimal shifting performance for the 1x system to select the most advantageous gear ratio combination that best suits your cycling practice.
By analysing real user-data via our sophisticated INpower technology, ROTOR engineers have developed a unique design that provides a real alternative in range and gear steps to the traditional 2×11 drivetrains. The number of teeth and the steps between gear sprockets are conceived so you can maintain your optimal cadence range for the best possible cycling experience.
The cassette structure combines 2 solid pieces, 1 of Aluminium and 1 of strengthened Steel to create an incredibly lightweight yet durable Cassette solution to complement our 1×13 drivetrain platform.
The rear derailleur also features a regulation bolt that allows you to convert it to 12-speed, so it will also work with cassettes from other manufacturers.
