KMC unveils its first-ever cassettes, complete with built-in ‘shifting ramps’

KMC claims the shifting ramps offer greater chain control and a smooth transitioning of gears

KMC Chain's new REACT cassettes
(Image credit: KMC Chain USA)
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KMC Chain USA, best known for its aftermarket chains, today unveiled its first-ever cassettes for both the road and off-road markets.

Available for 10- and 11-speed drivetrains, the new REACT cassettes feature a wide gear range and proprietary shifting technology, which KMC calls "Flow Control."

This Flow Control technology consists of a series of 'shifting ramps' built into the cassette. Each cog has a select number of teeth with a ramped profile which, together with its neighboring cog, create an upward or downward-shaped ramp meant to help lift or lower the chain for a more controlled and smooth transition between gears. These ramped teeth are also widened to reduce friction and enhance durability. 

KMC's REACT cassettes were optimized around the brand's chains but will play nice with chains from other leading brands as well. Within the cassette, the cog sizes increase gradually for smoother shifting and precise chain indexing.

These gear ranges were intended for consumers to not only replace a worn drivetrain but to "greatly increase their gear range over stock offerings." 

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Anne-Marije Rook
Anne-Marije Rook
North American Editor

Cycling Weekly's North American Editor, Anne-Marije Rook is old school. She holds a degree in journalism and started out as a newspaper reporter — in print! She can even be seen bringing a pen and notepad to the press conference.

Originally from the Netherlands, she grew up a bike commuter and didn't find bike racing until her early twenties when living in Seattle, Washington. Strengthened by the many miles spent darting around Seattle's hilly streets on a steel single speed, Rook's progression in the sport was a quick one. As she competed at the elite level, her journalism career followed, and soon, she became a full-time cycling journalist. She's now been a journalist for two decades, including 12 years in cycling.