Test/product presentation: What used to be the roller trainer or the fitness bike has already been replaced by a high-quality smart trainer in most cyclist households. The principle is the same, but there are more features, better connectivity, a more real driving experience and therefore supposedly more fun. With complete indoor systems that no longer need a normal wheel to clamp the whole experience is raised to an even higher level. The leading provider Wahoo has also integrated everything you could want for a perfect indoor riding experience with its Kickr Bike. We tried it out for you to see if it's all worth it.
Wahoo's new ultimate high-end smart trainer is more than a roller trainer, the Kickr Bike is a whole platform that resembles an old-fashioned exercise bike. Only at first glance, of course, because this indoor trainer is anything but old-fashioned thanks to clever features, the best possible settings and excellent connectivity. Nevertheless, for many, just looking at the hard facts is probably one too many, because at almost 43 kilos and 3500 euros, the Wahoo Kickr Bike packs a punch on both levels.
But let's get back to the bike itself. The futuristic look of the Kickr Bike is a matter of taste, but it may not seem as massive as classic spinning bikes to many. With almost 43 kilos you have to carry a decent pound if you want to wipe under the trainer, thanks to the castors on the feet it can still be moved quite easily if you have enough space in your own four walls.
Wahoo Kickr Bike - Endless customization options
A big advantage of the Wahoo Kickr Bike is the endless adjustment possibilities. The usual values such as reach, stack, seat height, seat angle and even the crank length can be adjusted with millimeter precision. The Wahoo app also helps with the settings and remembers the data. This way, several people can easily share the Kickr Bike. Well, somewhere the smart bike reaches its limits, the height should be between 152 and 192 cm and the weight under 113 kg. The otherwise very firm adjustment points only show minor weaknesses in the cockpit, as there is some play here.
The Wahoo Kickr Bike can also simulate the individual shifting group, because the app can be used to imitate all shifter assignments from Shimano, Sram or Campagnolo, including the gradations from 1 x 9 to 3 x 12 and the appropriate gear ratios.
Wahoo Kickr Bike - Real Ride Experience
With smooth transitions and low volume, the Kickr Bike offers a very natural riding experience. Due to its massive weight, you don't lose your calm so quickly and you can pedal properly even when you are out of the saddle. A cool feature is that the smart bike simulates ascents and descents, similar to the Kickr Climb, and thus, for example, brings the Zwift inclines into the living room in great detail. The cleverly positioned display provides information about the gears engaged, the angle of inclination of the bike and connectivity. A Zwift update also makes it possible to even steer the Kickr Bike and make the fictitious worlds even more tangible.
Wahoo Kickr Bike Details:
Price€ 3.499,99
Weight kg 42,39
Permissible total weight 113 kg
Max power 2.200W
Power meter accuracy ± 1%
Max Simulated Incline -15% to +20%
Suitable height 152-192cm