Smart Turbo Trainer Review

Like real wheel, neo smart, and fluid trainers, smart turbo trainers are a great tool for cyclists and their bikes for a great workout in order to maintain their conditioning in the cold winter months and to prepare for races or cross-country tours. In recent years, leading Cycleops, Cadence Sensor, and Elite Supercrono have created brand names like turbo cycle trainers have undergone a major innovative shift with the integration of smart technology.

Smart turbo trainers make cycle training with bikes more fun, engaging, and convenient for bikers all over the world. This smart turbo trainer review is designed to educate bikers on the added benefits of use, as well as the top products on the market.

Turbo trainers are the elite method of a good workout for cyclists. They are small, reliable, and convenient to use in one’s home. The design of a traditional trainer implements a stand for the back wheel, which connects into an adjustable resistance unit. Riders can change the resistance based on their training regiment and moment-to-moment needs.

The designs of these units are mainly mechanical in nature, and therefore, require the user to stop riding in order to adjust the unit’s settings. Smart turbo trainers, maintain the design integrity of the best turbo trainers and implement a wide range of smart technology capabilities, benefiting the user in numerous ways.

What is a Smart Turbo Trainer?

A smart turbo trainer is essentially a turbo trainer—but better. These elite trainers are designed for cyclists to engage in a fully-focused training session, using their own bike from the location of their choosing, just like a traditional turbo trainer.

However, smart turbo trainers perform a range of additional functions to work out resistance levels and many other things, from sending stats on your session to your computer or mobile device to enabling virtual community training features with other riders all over the world. Smart trainers are, generally, sorted into two categories…

Half-Smart Turbo Trainers

Half-smart turbo trainers are designed with wireless electronic communication ability and sensors which measure speed, distance, and other general specs. These units are able to send this information directly to the user’s phone, computer and tablet automatically.

These units are excellent for bikers who are new to turbo trainers, but they lack the sophistication and convenience features of a fully smart unit.

Fully Smart Turbo Trainers

A fully smart turbo trainer will change the way you train and how much you enjoy doing it. Users have complete control of the smart turbo trainer from a downloadable mobile app, allowing them to control the unit remotely. With a smart turbo trainer, you can raise and lower the unit’s resistance with the click of a button, as well as engage with other real riders.

The best smart turbo trainers are designed with ANT+FE-C capabilities, which allows for the user to track their speed, heart rate, and power output, as well as to interface with the units control settings. Cyclists can even connect up with other riders online to race or cruise together, using apps such as Zwift.

Smart Turbo Trainers combine the best elements of cycling and virtual gaming to make your indoor training much more productive and enjoyable. Fully smart trainers have the ability to link up with a piece of software, which will tell the trainer when to change the resistance and by how much, automatically.

Combined with Zwift, riders can hook it up to their TV and be able to see the course on which they are riding, just as in real life. The resistance varies in conjunction with the terrain of the course, providing an incredibly realistic and satisfying experience.

Smart Turbo Trainer Review

To take advantage of all that a smart turbo trainer has to offer, you will want a mount on your bicycle’s handlebars to hold your phone or tablet. If you are using a laptop, it is recommended that you have a laptop tray that stands tall enough to easily reach from a seated riding position on your bike.

In this way, your smart turbo trainers will give you the most convenience and functionality during your ride. This smart turbo trainer review will give you a reference point on some of the best products available.

1. Wahoo KICKR smart trainer

We chose the Wahoo KICKR smart trainer, as the best smart turbo trainer reviewed overall. This trainer is the top of the line and features all of the bells and whistles that a rider could ask for.

The Wahoo KICKR is great for cyclists who want a trainer that accurately simulates the sensation of riding on the road.

Design and Features

The Wahoo KICKR provides the user with a state of the art, customizable, unique cycle training experience. This smart trainer is designed to measure the rider’s power output straight from the hub, which is a uniquely individual product feature of this unit. The user can control the KICKR smart trainer from their iDevice, Mac book laptop, Windows PC, or tablet.

The Wahoo KICKR implements a “wheel-off” design, which attaches the user’s bike to the trainer through a direct-drive system. This eliminates the added wear on your tire, as well as maintains an accurate power reading.

It features Bluetooth 4.0 compatibility and is perfect for linking up with virtual bike trainer accounts, such as Zwift. Coming in around $1300, the Wahoo KICKR is made for serious cyclists who appreciate master craftsmanship.

2. Tacx Satori Smart turbo trainer

For those who are serious about training, but are interested in a lower price bracket, the Tacx Satori Smart turbo trainers come in around $400 to $500.

Less than half the price of the Wahoo KICKR, the Tacx Satori delivers all of the required features expected from a smart turbo trainer, plus more. This is the best smart turbo trainer for heavy-duty cyclists on a budget.

Design and Features

Designed with a magnetic resistance drive, the Tacx Satori features 10 levels of resistance. This unit is Bluetooth enabled and communicates with all computer and mobile platforms, including Mac, Windows, Android, and iDevices.

Users can sync their wearable smart technology, such as heart rate monitors and smartwatches with the trainer to incorporate as much user data as possible. Although this unit does not feature an automatic resistance control, the manually controlled magnetic resistance handle is easily accessible while sitting on the bike.

Best Kinetic Brand Bike Trainers

Kinetic is an industry leader in the bicycle trainer market. Their product line of turbo trainers and smart turbo trainers are among the highest quality in the industry. Here, we will take a look at the many optional features that a bicycle trainer may include, as well as the best kinetic brand bike trainers on the market.

Key Bike Trainer Specs

All bikes are not created equally, nor are their riders. Some enjoy trail riding and mountain biking, while others stick to the streets and cross-country roads. Luckily, Kinetic offers bike trainers for every type of rider and every bike classification. Before you go shopping for the perfect indoor trainer, it is beneficial to predetermine the features that will be most useful for your training needs.

Performance and Adjustability

Trainers operate by creating resistance to your bike’s drive train. The way in which the resistance is created can vary from model to model and there are several ways of doing so.

Most turbo trainers are designed with an adjustable resistance feature, which is operated either by hand or electronically. However, roller trainers, like the Kinetic Z Rollers, do not feature adjustable resistance and are meant for riders to just hop on and go, go, go.

Convenience, Storage, and Ease

Trainers, like the Kinetic Road Machine Smart Control Trainer, are designed for your bike’s back wheel to attach to the machine, without removing the wheel. Others models may be designed for those who do not plan on transporting their trainer very often, as they require the cyclist to remove the back wheel of their bike and attach the drive train directly to the trainer.

These models are useful, in mitigating the wear and tear on your bicycle’s rear tire; however, it is a bit more involved to get your bike street ready at a moment’s notice. Some trainers are a bit deceiving in size, such as the Kinetic Z Rollers. At full length, the unit is slightly larger than your bicycle; however, this purely mechanical trainer is designed to fold three times for easy storage and transportation.

Sound Obstruction and Price Difference

Remember the old 1970’s era gymnasium cycle trainers, which had the big fans? That design is definitely still in use. It is cheap and reliable, but noisy! If you are used to putting in your headphones and jamming out while biking, this might not be a problem. However, many cyclists do not enjoy the noise created by wind trainers and, luckily, they are no longer the only option for indoor bike training.

The Kinetic Road Machine 2.0 Fluid Trainer implements a fluid resistance design, along with a magnetic drive train, which is both very quiet and extremely accurate. The fluid flywheel and the magnetic train work in tandem to keep all moving parts of the trainer in synchronized unison. With added features that improve performance and noise control, comes a higher price tag; however, the improved resistance technology of these units also benefits the user, due to the mitigation of ongoing maintenance.

Types of Kinetic Bike Trainers

Although a wind trainer is a classic, most recognizable design, Kinetic has graduated to a higher level of craftsmanship. However, they still offer the Trainer Wind Cyclone, which is one of the best wind trainers on the market. They seek to provide reliable, durable, and maintenance-free bike trainers for a wide range of bikers.

Beginners might be alright with a wind trainer; however, cyclists quickly outgrow these bare bones models and yearn for something a bit more substantial and versatile. The Kinetic brand offers high-quality bike trainers, designed with cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and design methodologies.

Magnetic Resistance Bike Trainer

Most of Kinetics bike trainers are built with a fluid resistance system, as is the Kinetic Road Machine 2.0 Fluid Trainer. However, this unit also incorporates a magnetic train to the flywheel. Magnetic resistance is progressive, constant, and very satisfying to ride with, as it simulates a smooth pavement feeling.

Smart trainers, such as the Kinetic Rock and Roll Smart Control Bike Trainer, operate an electromagnetic resistance wheel, which is controlled remotely via Bluetooth compatibility. The best part of magnetic trainers is the sound reduction from traditional wind trainers. The magnets are silent and the only sound made is that of the rider pedaling away. Magnetic trainers offer variable resistance, via a hand switch or a remote control.

Fluid Resistance Bike Trainer

All fluid resistance bike trainers are based on the classic magnetic flywheel design. On top of the variability offered by the magnets, the fluid design gives riders the ability to fine tune their resistance, in a consistent and progressive nature. Fluid trainers are the best for those who want to feel like they are riding on a smooth road.

Models, such as the Kinetic Rock and Roll Smart Bike Trainer and the Kinetic Road Machine Smart Control Trainer can be fine tuned remotely from the user’s smartphone or tablet.

Roller Trainers

The Kinetic Z Rollers are Kinetic’s tribute to the original bike trainer. Simply designed, durable, and hassle free, these models are made for easy use and easy storage. Your bike sits atop a set of 3 precision roller drums—one on the front wheel and 2 that cradle the rear wheel. The bike simply rolls under its own power, without the use of any additional resistance.

Though Kinetic has not integrated any smart technology, remote capabilities or fancy fluid resistance into the Kinetic Z Rollers, it is still one of the best rolling trainers on the market, thanks to Kinetic’s uncompromised attention to detail, quality, and durability. The Kinetic Z Roller is also one of the best bike trainers for those on a budget, as it comes in around $300.

A bike trainer will take your cycling and conditioning to the next level and provide the ease and convenience to make cycling a part of your daily life. When looking for the best brand of bike trainers, if you do not want to sacrifice design integrity for frugality, go with Kinetic. The best Kinetic Bike trainers are made for the best bikers, so up your game this season with a Kinetic trainer.

 

Ohuhu Magnet Steel Bike Bicycle Indoor Exercise Trainer Stand

An indoor bicycle trainer is a training accessory that turns your bike into a stationary bicycle that, in turn, makes your bike a year-round exercise machine. By attaching to your rear wheel’s skewer, the bicycle trainers let you ride your favorite bike without going anywhere.

So if you are looking for a way to train indoors, without paying the monthly fee for a gym, being able to work out in the privacy of your own home, while you watch TV shows or listen to whatever music you prefer, while using a bicycle that is yours and you are comfortable with, the indoor bicycle trainer is a great product for you.

The Ohuhu Bike Trainer is an excellent choice if you are looking for an affordable, yet sturdy bike trainer stand. The magnetic design and flexible internal resistance settings allows you to control the power you need for every workout.

The Ohuhu Bike trainer is compatible with most outdoor and mountain bikes with 24-inch to 28-inch or 700 cc tires. It comes with an adjustable knob that ensures that the bicycle is clamped on firmly.

An adjustable bar-mounted remote allows you to effortlessly control the bike’s resistance from your handlebar. Despite its heavy frame, this bike trainer can be easily transported and stored when necessary.

Features

• Quiet and smooth magnetic resistance
• Flexible internal resistance settings
• An adjustable bar-mounted remote that allows you to effortlessly control the bike’s resistance from your handlebar
• Extra wide, stable frame that provides solid performance during hard efforts
• Despite its heavy frame, this bike trainer can be easily folded for transportation and storage
• Easy setup – Hooks up to just about any bike, including road and mountain bikes with a 24″ -28 ” or 700c wheel
• Fine-tune to your wheel and tire size with the micro-adjust knob

Pros

• Low in noise and vibration levels. Smooth and even magnetic resistance
• Easily foldable – transportation and storage easy and simple
• Easy bicycle mounting
• Supports a wider variety of road and mountain bikes
• Resistance setting internal and controlled with a bar mounted remote connected to your handlebar making changing of resistance easy
• Frame is durable and strong and provides stability during intense biking sessions
• Micro adjust knobs helps in snug fitting of the wheel and tires
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Stand assembly guide is not available that can pose challenges to a biker assembling the product without much experience

Comparison

There are a couple of excellent bicycle trainers on the market that are on par with the Ohuhu Bike Trainer in terms of features. They are listed below. Read through the features of each of the products and make an informed decision based on your preference and needs.

1. CycleOps Fluid2 Indoor Trainer
2. CycleTEK Momentum1 Indoor Trainer

CycleOps Fluid2 Indoor Trainer

With the CycleOps Fluid2 Indoor trainer, you can get the most out of each indoor training ride. The CycleOps Fluid2 is designed to fit common road and mountain bike frames. It has a precision-machined alloy roller that reduces tire wear and slippage.

The clutch knob provides perfect roller to the tire tension. The setup is done on the CycleOps foldable Classic frame that enables easy storage. The 2-inch resistance unit roller allows for 650b, 700cc, 26-inch, 27-inch, and 29-inch wheel sizes – up to a 2.0 tire.

A steel quick release skewer is included in the package. The spring loaded, bolt-action lever provides resistance while pedaling, and the precision-balanced flywheel lets you easily customize each ride. The CycleOps Fluid2 is built with 100% recyclable, non-rusting materials and is made with rugged 2-inch round 16-gauge steel. It is strong, sturdy, and a great buy.

The CycleTEK Momentum1

The CycleTEK Momentum1 uses an oversized alloy frame with six points of contact on the floor. Each rubber foot twists with different faces to accommodate uneven flooring as well. It supports bicycles with wheel sizes from 20 inches to 700cc.

The resistance piece has a silicone fluid that provides a wide range of resistance. Everything from low cadence mashing to high speed sprints can easily summon enough resistance to give you a good workout.

There are twin adjustable mounts with lock rings that twist to lock onto the frame rather than using the lever to clamp down on the axle giving a sturdy base to your bicycle. The bonus is that it does all this without noise. The CycleTEK Momentum1 is an excellent fluid bicycle trainer. It is a quality product.

Verdict

The CycleOps Fluid2 and CycleTEK Momentum1 are excellent indoor bike trainers. However, the Ohuhu Bike Traineredges the other two as it is reasonable in terms of cost and is an affordable buy while providing most of the key features of their expensive counterparts. Ohuhu is great value for money. Buy it.

Magnet Steel Bike Bicycle Indoor Exercise Trainer Stand

Indoor Bike Trainers can add an extra dimension to your training. It helps convert your outdoor bike into an indoor biking set up, thereby enabling you to continue training in the harsh, cold winter months.

The rear wheel of your bike is attached to the bike trainer, in order to hold it still, as the rear wheel spins on a roller on the trainer. The roller produces resistance that is based on the force with which you pedal against.

As there is resistance, this can be adjusted to increase and decrease the effort required to pedal, thereby reproducing the feeling of cycling on the roads in real life, to recreate climbing, sprinting, and just cruising along as closely to the real deal as possible.

The Magnet Steel Bike Trainer is a magnetic trainer that offers effective indoor training in a strong and well-supported steel frame. The Magnet Steel Bike Trainer can be set up with almost any bike (be it an outdoor or a mountain bike). Continued pedaling causes the internal magnet to create resistance. This resistance can be changed from your handle bars for up to five levels.

Features

• The Magnet Steel Bike Trainer has five internal resistance settings that are triggered by the pedaling speed of the biker.
• The resistance of the bike can be changed from the handle bar, giving the feeling of cycling the roads in real life.
• Fits 25-inch, 26-inch, and 700cc tires.
• It has a quiet design, and the amount of noise generated is low.
• Heavy-duty, sturdy frame for providing the required support to your bicycle. It also folds easily for storage and travel.
• The magnet system is the state-of-the-art technology that provides progressive magnetic resistance that increases as the speed increases.
• Dimensions are – 21.4×19.4×15.5.
• Allows biking indoors with your regular bike and gives you a good biking experience.

Pros

• It is easy to set up, saving you time.
• The ability to fit almost any bike size makes it perfect for any type of cyclist.
• The frame is solid and robust. It provides a great deal of confidence to the biker for pedaling at high speeds without any slippage or instability and various resistance levels
• The trainer does not produce a lot of noise. This is an attractive feature as most indoor bicycle trainers produce a lot of noise and vibrations. You can comfortably listen to music or watch TV while biking.
• Provides good resistance through the range. The five levels of resistance make the Magnet Steel Bike Trainer a good buy for bikers across experience levels.
• Very cost effective – The price of this trainer is low, considering the quality of the product and the features it packs. This is one of the biggest pros of the product.

Cons

• A set of rubber caps to attach to the bicycle might be a worthwhile addition to the product.

The Magnetic Steel Bicycle Trainer stand is a feature-rich product that will suit your biking needs indoors. It provides sufficiently challenging workouts and a safe and secure frame to continue with your biking schedule irrespective or weather conditions. Try it, and you will enjoy a fun biking experience indoors.

Comparison

There are a couple of other products on the market that are on par with the Magnet Steel Bike Trainer. They are listed below. It is recommended that you read through the features of them as well to make an informed decision on which product suits you best.

1. Useful UH-BT167 Magnet Steel Bike Trainer
2. Magnetic 8 Levels Resistance Turbo Trainer

Useful UH-BT167 Magnet Steel Bike Trainer

The Useful UH-BT167 Bike Trainer converts your bike into an indoor cycling trainer easily and offers effective indoor training during harsh weather conditions. There are 7 levels of resistance, and you can change them right from your handle bars.

It offers a stiff, well-supported steel frame for your bike to ensure stability while you ride. The wide base design gives extra stability and a smooth, quiet ride. This trainer is easy to set up with almost any bike–including road and mountain bikes with a 26″, 27″ or 700c wheel.

Fine-tune to your wheel and tire size with the micro-adjust knobs available for a snug fit. As you pedal, the internal magnet creates resistance, increasing up to 5 different levels, and you can change them right from your handle bars. With the Bike Trainer by Useful Products, you can:

1. Continue riding anytime you want, all year round.
2. Train safely, away from high traffic areas.

The Useful UH-BT167 Trainer can be folded down like an ironing board for travel and storage. It is a wonderful buy for bikers who look for maximum stability while riding. The Useful UH-BT167 is a strong and dependable bike trainer that features robust construction and proven reliability in a cost-effective manner.

Magnetic 8 Levels Resistance Turbo Trainer

As the name suggests, the Magnetic 8 Levels Resistance Turbo Trainer comes with 8 levels of resistance. This trainer has been designed to meet your biking needs in your house or garden and do away with the need to stop training because of weather conditions or traffic.

The Magnetic Turbo Trainer can fit almost any bike including road bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrids. In order to enjoy your riding without a lot of noise because of vibrations and friction, it is recommended that you use a smooth training tire.

The steel foldable frame structure provides you the safest training with a 330 lbs. weight loading capacity (including bike’s weight). The magnetic resistance with 8 levels meets your needs for resistance and speed.

The adjustable height setting, along with a knob that is provided in the package, fits your different wheel size (26″, 28″, and 700C). The humanized designed rubber foot pad can be adjustable for different heights. Therefore, you don’t have to worry if your floor is not flat.

The unit comes with a front wheel support block to ensure that the front wheel stays in place and it also has a quick-release skewer to ensure that the bike can be released from the trainer base easily and quickly. It is a feature-rich product that is versatile and a good buy.

Verdict

On comparison of the features of all three bike trainers, we recommend the Magnetic Steel Bike Trainer as our choice. It is the most feature rich product available and the price makes it a must buy.