The heart of a 1x groupset is the cassette. In the Microshift combo called "Advent", this measures 11-42 teeth, in the gradation 11-13-15-18-21-24-28-34-42. However, the special thing about it is not the usual 11 or 12 gears, but nine. Microshift argues that the chains are far more stable with this number of gears because they are wider, and that the mix and match works well with many components available on the market. The material of the sprockets on the cassette is steel, only the 42 mm sprocket is made of aluminum to save some weight.

The rear derailleur has an interesting mechanism to keep the chain in check. While other manufacturers rely on friction to limit the wild swinging of the derailleur arm, Microshift relies on a kind of pawl ratchet system. This derailleur taming system can be switched on and off and, according to Microshift, is easy to maintain. A thumb shifter is also on board the new groupset, which should ensure easy operation thanks to the ball bearings.

Microshift is not sending its own crankset into the race. However, anything that is designed for 9-speed drivetrains is suitable. However, the system also works perfectly with dedicated 11-speed and 12-speed cranks.

Microshift really takes the cake when it comes to price. A modest 125 US dollars is due for the cassette, shift lever and rear derailleur. Another interesting feature is the option of shifting gears with shift/brake levers designed for drop bars. Microshift thus builds a cost-effective groupset that is suitable for both mountain, gravel and cross bikes.

microshift.com