X-Shifter is a hybrid system, a wireless gearshift or rather a remote control that can be assigned various tasks and communicates with a shift unit via Bluetooth. This contains one or two servomotors, including a battery that can be charged via USB. These servomotors pull on a cable to move the rear derailleur or front derailleur. The servo motor can also control a cable-activated fork or shock lockout or cause the dropper post to move with a cable pull. The shifting unit with battery weighs around 80 grams in the X-Shift version, the Dual X-Shift version with two servo motors weighs just over a hundred grams and can be attached anywhere on the frame.

There are almost no limits to the gears that can be converted to electronic with X-Shift: older systems with 7, 8 or 9 sprockets on the cassette can be operated, it works with 1, 2 or 3 chainrings and with current 10-speed and 11-speed systems and even modern 12-speed single chainring gears can be converted. There are also no hurdles in terms of bike type; according to the manufacturer, the servomotors are suitable for tandems, recumbents, road bikes and mountain bikes.

The young company X-Shifter cleared the Kickstarter hurdle with Suplesse in an incredible two days in December 2016. The parts are now available to order on the manufacturer's website, the prices are surprisingly moderate and the parts should arrive with customers this spring.

www.xshifter.com