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

(Image credit: KMC Chain USA)

published 8 February 2024

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.

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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.