The 8 Best Smart Bike Trainers Ridden and Rated (2024)

Preview picture for the best smart bike trainers article: 5 smart trainers - Tacx Flow, Wahoo KICKR, Elite Direto XR, Saris H3, Tacx NEO 2T.

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These are the best smart bike trainers available. I included budget, mid-range, and high-end wheel-on and direct-drive smart bike trainers based on my experience, tests, reviews, and discussions. I also scored them based on my bike trainers’ scoring system.

KEY TAKEAWAY

I consider Wahoo KICKR v6 (also available from competitivecyclist.com) the best smart bike trainer overall. I kept it for personal use because it’s accurate (±1%), reliable, stable, quiet, and compatible with most indoor training apps. It has Wi-Fi and 2200W resistance and can simulate up to 20% gradients. The carry handle makes it easy to move, and the compatibility with Wahoo accessories is also a plus. Its only disadvantage is the price, as it is a high-end trainer.

Read on to learn what to consider when choosing a smart bike trainer, what features to look for, what trainers pro teams use, and more!

What Are the Best Smart Bike Trainers?

Unfolded Tacx Flow Smart on a wooden floor.
Tacx Flow Smart

Also available at jensonusa.com

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Wahoo KICKR v5 from the right side on a wooden floor.
Wahoo KICKR

Also available at competitivecyclist.com and tredz.co.uk

Read More

Tacx NEO 2T on a wooden floor (right side).
Tacx NEO 2T

Also available at amazon.com, jensonusa.com, and tredz.co.uk

Read More

Skip to the comparison table…

The best smart bike trainers offer ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth, or WiFi connectivity. They should also provide accurate and consistent power and cadence data, a realistic ride feel, reliability, and low noise levels.

You can choose a direct-drive or wheel-on trainer and trainers with electromagnetic or fluid resistance.

Buy an interactive smart trainer for the best possible experience when using indoor cycling apps.

If you want to learn more before you choose the bike trainer suitable for your needs, read the buyer’s guide section.

Wahoo KICKR (Best Overall)

High-end specs, road-like feel, reliability, and compatibility with Wahoo accessories.

Resistance and Gradient 5/5 | Accuracy 5/5 | Noisiness 4/5 | Power Consumption 4/5 | Ride Feel 4/5 | ERG Mode 4/5 | Ease of Setup 5/5 | Portability 5/5 | OVERALL 4.5/5

Main Features

  • Cassette included: Yes
  • Adjusts resistance via training app: Yes
  • Up to 5 degrees of side-to-side tilt
  • Measures metrics like speed, distance, power, and cadence
  • Sturdy and stable construction
  • Easily portable thanks to carrying handle
  • Easily storable thanks to foldable legs
  • Compatible with Wahoo accessories like HEADWIND or CLIMB

Technical Specs

  • Resistance (type): Up to 2200W (electromagnetic)
  • Accuracy: ±1%
  • Gradient simulation: 20%
  • Automatic calibration: Yes
  • Weight: 46 lb (20.9 kg)
  • Noisiness: ~58 dB @ 200W
  • Power Consumption: ~6 Wh @ 200W, ~10 Wh @ 300W
  • Connectivity:
    • KICKR v5: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
    • KICKR v6: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz WiFi
  • Flywheel: 16 lb (7.3 kg)

KICKR is Wahoo’s top smart trainer. It comes in multiple versions.

I believe the 2020 version (v5) is the best choice, as it offers great value for money. You can find more details in my Wahoo KICKR v5 review.

However, in 2022, Wahoo introduced v6, which is similar to v5 but includes WiFi connectivity, ERG Easy Ramp, and an odometer. (See a detailed comparison between KICKR v5 and v6.)

Both KICKR v5 and v6 feature AXIS legs with rubber dampeners that allow up to 5 degrees of side-to-side tilt. The idea is to reduce vibrations and friction between the saddle and your sensitive areas. However, I found that they don’t work as well as expected.

One great feature is the automatic calibration, which means you don’t have to worry about it. The accuracy has improved from ±2% in v4 to ±1% in v5 and v6.

Cyclists love the KICKR for its quiet operation, easy setup and use, and durable build with a convenient carry handle. Wahoo’s customer support is also responsive and helpful.

If you’re looking for alternatives to the KICKR, consider the Tacx NEO 2T, Elite Direto XR, and Saris H3, which have different strengths in accuracy, gradient simulation, and resistance.

  • The Tacx NEO 2T offers up to 25% gradient simulation and is sturdy, but it’s more expensive and doesn’t come with a cassette. It’s also less portable.
  • The Elite Direto XR is more affordable than the KICKR and offers higher resistance and gradient simulation. However, it is about 0.5% less accurate and has a worse ERG mode.
  • As for the Saris H3, it provides lower resistance (2000W) and is less accurate (±2%). Additionally, it doesn’t come with a cassette, but it is more budget-friendly.

Interested in zwifting? Check out the best Zwift-compatible bike trainers.

Tacx Flow (Best Budget)

One of the most affordable interactive smart trainers on the market.

Resistance and Gradient 2/5 | Accuracy 1/5 | Noisiness 3/5 | Power Consumption 4/5 | Ride Feel 3/5 | ERG Mode 3/5 | Ease of Setup 4/5 | Portability 4/5 | OVERALL 3.0/5

Main Features

  • Adjusts resistance via training app: Yes
  • Measures speed, power, and cadence
  • Front wheel block included
  • Easily portable thanks to low weight

Technical Specs

  • Resistance (type): Up to 800W (electromagnetic)
  • Accuracy: ±5%
  • Gradient simulation: 6%
  • Weight: 20.7 lb (9.4 kg)
  • Noisiness: ~62.3 dB @ 200W
  • Power Consumption: ~7 Wh @ 200W, ~3 Wh @ 300W
  • Connectivity: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
  • Flywheel: 3.5 lb (1.6 kg)

Garmin’s Tacx Flow is one of the cheapest smart interactive bike trainers. It can adjust the resistance based on the virtual world of your favorite training app. This makes your riding more engaging and road-like.

While the 3.5 lb (1.6 kg) flywheel is silent, the nature of this trainer (wheel-on) means that the tire will make more noise than a direct-drive trainer. But it’s relatively quiet compared to other wheel-on trainers I tested (like the Elite Novo Force). I recommend using a trainer tire to reduce the noisiness.

The Tacx Flow is also portable and easy to set up, making it a great option for those with limited space.

Its biggest downsides are the low maximum resistance and gradient simulation compared to other trainers in this price range and lower accuracy.

Some users have also reported connectivity issues, which can be solved with an ANT+ receiver. I didn’t experience them.

Overall, if you’re looking for an entry-level smart trainer, the Tacx Flow is an excellent option.

Also available at jensonusa.com

Tacx NEO 2T (Best High-End)

High-end direct-drive trainer for the most demanding riders.

Resistance and Gradient 5/5 | Accuracy 3/5 | Noisiness 5/5 | Power Consumption 5/5 | Ride Feel 5/5 | ERG Mode 4/5 | Ease of Setup 4/5 | Portability 2/5 | OVERALL 4.1/5

Main Features

  • Cassette included: No
  • Adjusts resistance via training app: Yes
  • Measures speed, cadence, power, left/right leg power balance
  • Very quiet
  • The most realistic ride feel of all trainers, thanks to the virtual flywheel
  • Can simulate different surfaces (gravel, cobblestones, etc.) and downhill
  • Foldable but without a carry handle
  • Front wheel block included

Technical Specs

  • Resistance (type): Up to 2200W (electromagnetic)
  • Accuracy: ±1%
  • Gradient simulation: 25%
  • Automatic calibration: Yes
  • Weight: 47.3 lb (21.5 kg)
  • Noisiness: ~55.5 dB @ 200W
  • Power Consumption: ~0 Wh @ 200W, ~0 Wh @ 300W, 44 Wh when freewheeling motor operates
  • Connectivity: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
  • Power required: No

The NEO 2T is Tacx’s top direct-drive trainer, featuring improved internals for a quieter, more accurate (±1% vs. ±2.5%), and more reliable performance.

With the largest virtual flywheel on the market, weighing up to 276 lb (125 kg), the NEO 2T provides an enhanced road-like riding experience.

One standout feature is its ability to simulate multiple road surfaces, like cobbles and gravel, which sets it apart from other bike trainers. I really enjoyed this one!

Cyclists, including pros, love the Tacx NEO 2T for its accuracy and durability. It can even measure your L/R leg balance.

The foldability is convenient for storage during summer months, but the trainer lacks a handle, making it challenging to move around with a mounted bike. Therefore, a dedicated training area is a must.

However, there are drawbacks, such as its high price and the need to purchase a cassette separately. I also find its ERG mode too aggressive, and it took me some time to get used to it.

Another thing to note is that the virtual flywheel can make pedaling feel “difficult,” as if the trainer is pulling your legs.

So, is the price justifiable? If you prioritize the most realistic ride feel, then yes. For more in-depth information, check out my Tacx NEO 2T review.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider alternatives like the Wahoo KICKR, Elite Direto XR, or Saris H3.

Also available at amazon.com, jensonusa.com, and tredz.co.uk

Wahoo KICKR Core

The best mid-range smart bike trainer…

Wahoo KICKR CORE on a white background (view from the right side).
Wahoo KICKR CORE | Source: wahoofitness.com

Main Features

  • Adjusts resistance via training app: Yes
  • Measures speed, distance, power, and cadence
  • Compatible with Wahoo accessories like HEADWIND or CLIMB

Technical Specs

  • Resistance (type): Up to 1800W (electromagnetic)
  • Accuracy: ±2%
  • Gradient simulation: 16%
  • Automatic calibration: No
  • Weight: 40 lb (18 kg)
  • Connectivity: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
  • Flywheel: 16 lb (7.26 kg)

The Wahoo KICKR Core is a cost-effective option for indoor training, especially with Zwift, because it includes 1-year Zwift membership1.

The KICKR Core can simulate up to 16% gradients and offers 1800W electromagnetic resistance, enough for beginners and advanced riders. It can measure speed, distance, power, and cadence.

Of course, it’s compatible with Wahoo accessories like the HEADWIND or CLIMB. Its main competitor is the Zwift Hub One. They offer almost identical specs, but Core lacks features like a race mode or virtual shifting. However, those could be added via firmware updates. You can learn my comparison of KICKR Core and Zwift Hub.

Also available at competitivecyclist.com, amazon.com, and tredz.co.uk

Have you heard of cycling rocker plates? A rocker plate will improve your riding comfort and add more realism to your indoor training.

Tacx Flux S

A mid-range direct-drive trainer combining great value for the money.

Tacx Flux S direct-drive smart trainer with a cassette (view from the side)
Tacx Flux S

Main Features

  • Cassette included: No
  • Adjusts resistance via training app: Yes
  • Measures power, speed, and cadence
  • Sturdy and stable
  • Great price-value ratio

Technical Specs

  • Resistance (type): Up to 1500W (electromagnetic)
  • Accuracy: ±3%
  • Gradient simulation: 10%
  • Automatic calibration: No
  • Weight: 52 lb (23.6 kg)
  • Connectivity: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
  • Flywheel: 15.4 lbs (7.0 kg)

If you’re in the market for a direct-drive smart trainer but don’t want to break the bank, the Tacx Flux S is a good option.

While it may not have the best specs, such as only ±3% accuracy, up to 1500W resistance, and 10% gradient simulation, it provides great value for the price.

In terms of stability, the Flux S is sturdy and won’t tip over when you’re pushing hard on the pedals, making it ideal for sprints.

However, it’s not very portable since the legs can’t be folded, and it doesn’t have a carry handle.

One downside of the Tacx Flux S is that it doesn’t come with a cassette, so you’ll have to buy one separately.

Another trainer to consider in the same price range is the Elite Suito, which comes with better specs and includes a cassette.

Also available at rei.com, competitivecyclist.com, and tredz.co.uk

Elite Suito

A mid-range direct-drive trainer from Italy.

Elite Suito direct-drive smart trainer with included cassette and front wheel riser (view from the side)
Elite Suito

Main Features

  • Cassette included: Yes
  • Adjusts resistance via training app: Yes
  • Measures speed, cadence, power
  • Front wheel block included
  • Very portable (foldable legs and a carry handle)

Technical Specs

  • Resistance (type): Up to 1900W (electromagnetic)
  • Accuracy: ±2.5%
  • Gradient simulation: 15%
  • Automatic calibration: No
  • Weight: 32 lb (15 kg)
  • Flywheel: 7.7 lb (3.5 kg)
  • Connectivity: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth

Elite Suito is an affordable direct-drive trainer with a good cadence and power accuracy. It comes with a cassette and front-wheel block, making it a convenient choice.

Setting up the Suito is easy, and it’s portable, thanks to its foldable legs and carry handle. This makes it ideal for those with limited space or who want to take it with them while traveling.

The ride experience on the Suito is great and comparable to higher-end models. However, the biggest issue is that it’s prone to defects, with some users reporting a knocking noise and a failing cadence sensor.

Elite customer support is less reliable than Wahoo’s, so if you’re willing to spend a little more, consider the Direto XR, which is more dependable. Alternatively, the Tacx Flux S is a cheaper alternative.

Also available at performancebike.com and tredz.co.uk

Elite Direto XR

The best high-end smart bike trainer from Elite.

Resistance and Gradient 5/5 | Accuracy 1/5 | Noisiness 3/5 | Power Consumption 5/5 | Ride Feel 4/5 | ERG Mode 2/5 | Ease of Setup 5/5 | Portability 3/5 | OVERALL 3.5/5

Main Features

  • Cassette included: Yes
  • Adjusts resistance via training app: Yes
  • Measures speed, cadence, power
  • Front wheel block included
  • Great specs in this price range

Technical Specs

  • Resistance (type): Up to 2300W (electromagnetic)
  • Accuracy: ±1.5%
  • Gradient simulation: 24%
  • Automatic calibration: No
  • Weight: 24.8 lb (15.8 kg)
  • Noisiness: ~62 dB @ 200W
  • Power Consumption: ~2.5 Wh @ 200W, ~3 Wh @ 300W
  • Flywheel: 11.2 lb (5.1 kg)
  • Connectivity: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth

The Elite Direto XR is a high-end direct-drive trainer for a mid-range price (especially when it’s heavily discounted).

The Direto XR is an improved version of the Direto line, featuring a larger flywheel and improved ERG mode accuracy.

It offers a maximum resistance of 2300W and a gradient simulation of up to 24%, something not commonly found in this price range.

But honestly, you won’t be able to max them out as they are overkill for 99% of cyclists.

Based on my experience, I noticed Direto XR has a good road-like feel but is noisier than Wahoo KICKR or NEO 2T.

The biggest downside of the Direto XR is the plastic chassis and bulkiness. It feels cheap and is hard to move around. Its accuracy and ERG mode are also not the best.

The Elite Suito is the main competitor of the Direto XR, offering a lower price point and less impressive specs. For those who find the Direto XR too expensive, the Suito may be a better option.

For more information, read my Elite Direto XR review.

Also available at tredz.co.uk

Saris H3

An iconic US-made trainer and the ERG mode king.

Resistance and Gradient 5/5 | Accuracy 4/5 | Noisiness 4/5 | Power Consumption 4/5 | Ride Feel 4/5 | ERG Mode 5/5 | Ease of Setup 4/5 | Portability 3/5 | OVERALL 4.1/5

Main Features

  • Cassette included: No
  • Adjusts resistance via training app: Yes
  • Measures speed, cadence, power
  • Precise and responsive ERG mode (ideal for TrainerRoad)
  • Well built

Technical Specs

  • Resistance (type): Up to 2000W (electromagnetic)
  • Accuracy: ±2%
  • Gradient simulation: 20%
  • Automatic calibration: No
  • Weight: 47 lb (21.3 kg)
  • Noisiness: ~58.7 dB @ 200W
  • Power Consumption: ~8.8 Wh @ 200W, ~11.7 Wh @ 300W
  • Flywheel: 20 lb (9.1 kg)
  • Connectivity: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth

Saris, formerly CycleOps, is a US-based bike trainer manufacturer producing one bike trainer that stands out.

The Saris H3 is the quietest trainer Saris offers, producing noise levels of around 59dB, which is no louder than a normal conversation. However, the high-end Wahoo KICKR and Tacx NEO 2T are even quieter.

One of the H3’s best features is its ERG mode, which is fluent, responsive, and accurate, making it the best one I’ve ever experienced.

H3 offers up to 2000W of resistance, sufficient for every amateur cyclist, even for sprint intervals.

You can connect it to your favorite training apps to control resistance. It can simulate up to 20% gradients, quickly changing resistance when climbing a steep incline.

The Saris H3 does have a few downsides. It does not come with a cassette, and some users report that its cadence sensor is not as precise as sensors in other similarly priced trainers, such as the Elite Direto XR or Elite Suito.

I also find it too sturdy, which results in some saddle discomfort. So, I recommend using it with a rocker plate.

For more details, check out my review of the Saris H3, where I conducted accuracy tests and provided additional information. You can check out my comparison of Saris H3 vs. H4.


Smart TrainerTypeResistanceAccuracyGradient SimulationAuto CalibrationBuyResistance
and Gradient
AccuracyNoisinessPower ConsumptionRide FeelERG ModeEase of
Setup
PortabilityOverall Score
Wahoo KICKR v6Direct‑drive2200W±1%20%YesCheck Price
Check Price (tredz.co.uk)
5544445534.5
Tacx FlowWheel-on800W±5%6%NoCheck Price
Check Price (rei.com)
2134334453.0
Tacx Neo 2TDirect-drive2200W±1%25%YesCheck Price
Check Price (amazon.com)
5355544234.1
Wahoo KICKR CoreDirect‑drive1800W±2%16%NoCheck Price
Check Price (competitivecyclist.com)
4n/an/an/an/an/a5243.7
Tacx Flux S Direct-drive1500W±3%10%NoCheck Price
Check Price (competitivecyclist.com)
43n/an/an/an/a3243.0
Elite SuitoDirect-drive1900W±2.5%15%NoCheck Price
Check Price (performancebike.com)
44n/an/an/an/an/a343.7
Elite Direto XRDirect-drive2300W±1.5%24%NoCheck Price5135425343.5
Saris H3Direct-drive2000W±2%20%NoCheck Price5444454344.1
List of the best smart bike trainers with info about their type, maximal resistance, accuracy, gradient simulation, and auto calibration. The trainers are scored based on this smart bike trainers scoring.

My Verdict

Smart bike trainers can be pricey, but they are worth the investment. Their compatibility with third-party apps makes indoor cycling more engaging.

Previously, I used a non-smart wheel-on trainer but found it boring and struggled to train indoors. That all changed when I purchased my first smart interactive trainer.

After comparing over 30 smart bike trainers, testing some of them, and evaluating their features, I have selected the following trainers as the best currently available.

  1. The best budget smart bike trainer is the Tacx Flow (also available at rei.com). It is one of the most affordable interactive wheel-on bike trainers. Flow is ideal for beginners or riders who want to upgrade their dumb smart trainer.
  2. The best smart bike trainer overall is the Wahoo KICKR (also available from competitivecyclist.com). KICKR is precise, quiet, and reliable and will provide you with a road-like feel thanks to the quality flywheel and up to 5 degrees of side-to-side movement.
  3. The best premium smart bike trainer is the Tacx NEO 2T (also available at tredz.co.uk). This sophisticated, high-end trainer will satisfy the needs of the most demanding riders. Especially thanks to the realistic road feel and multiple surface simulation.

How to Choose the Best Smart Bike Trainer?

When choosing a smart bike trainer, you should consider a few features to spend your money wisely.

The following guide is a consolidated version of the how-to choose a bike trainer guide that explains all bike trainer types in-depth.

Type of a Bike Trainer

When buying a smart trainer, you have 2 basic choices. You can either buy a wheel-on or a direct-drive trainer.

An example of a wheel-on smart trainer (Wahoo KICKR SNAP)
Wheel-on bike trainer (Wahoo KICKR SNAP) | Product picture source: wahoofitness.com
An example of a direct-drive smart trainer (Wahoo KICKR)
Direct-drive bike trainer (Wahoo KICKR) | Product picture source: wahoofitness.com

Wheel-on Smart Trainers

Wheel-on smart trainers require the rear wheel to be mounted on your bike. It is then set up against a roller that provides resistance.

The resistance is usually (electro)magnetic or fluid, and depending on the trainer, it is adjusted either manually (via remote) or automatically (via an indoor cycling app; in this case, look for an interactive trainer).

Smart wheel-on trainers are more affordable than direct-drive trainers. They are also more portable and don’t take up too much space. You can store them in a closet, for example, during summer.

They are ideal for riders new to indoor cycling or with a limited budget. However, advanced riders can use them too.

TIP: Learn how to set up and use wheel-on and direct-drive trainers.

Direct-drive Trainers

Direct-drive or wheel-off trainers require you to take off the rear wheel and mount your bike directly in the trainer.

These trainers use electromagnetic resistance that a training app can control. They also offer better riding characteristics and are more accurate than wheel-on trainers. That’s why they are more suitable for avid, advanced, and pro cyclists because they provide better riding characteristics.

The following table shows the pros and cons of wheel-on and direct-drive smart trainers.

Trainer TypeProsConsRecommended for
Wheel-on• More affordable than direct-drive trainers
• Compatible with many types of bikes
• Take up less space than direct-drive trainers and are more portable
• Worse riding characteristics than direct-drive trainers
• Less stable than direct-drive trainers
• Low-end models may be smart but can't adjust the resistance
• Usually noisier than direct-drive trainers
Beginners, people with a limited budget
Direct-drive• Better riding characteristics than wheel-on trainers
• More stable than wheel-on trainers
• Can adjust the resistance based on training apps
• Very quiet
• More expensive than wheel-on trainers
• Take up more space than wheel-on trainers
• They require accessories like a cassette
• They may not be compatible with every bike
Advanced riders, pros
Pros & Cons of wheel-on and direct-drive bike trainers, and their recommended use

Resistance & Resistance Type

Most smart bike trainers use one of the two types of resistance.

  1. (Electro)magnetic
  2. Fluid

Smart direct-drive trainers and high-end wheel-on trainers mostly use (electro)magnetic resistance.

The fluid resistance is more common on wheel-on trainers (like those from Kinetic), but there are also smart trainers with fluid resistance.

TIP: Check out this article comparing the pros and cons of fluid vs. (electro)magnetic resistance.

The difference between interactive electromagnetic resistance trainers and fluid resistance trainers is that the former can adjust the resistance based on the training app, while the latter can’t.

Fluid trainers have progressive resistance, meaning the more you pedal, the higher the resistance. This better simulates real-world riding conditions.

The overall resistance of a bike trainer is given in watts, with high-end smart trainers offering resistance above 2000W, mid-range trainers up to 1500W, and lower-end trainers up to 1000W.

While a 1000W or 1500W trainer may be sufficient for most riders, powerful riders who need to train sprints and hit 1500W+ may consider getting a trainer with higher resistance.

Gradient Simulation

Gradient simulation refers to the trainer’s ability to adjust resistance based on virtual climbs in a training app.

High-end trainers can simulate steeper gradients (up to 25%), resulting in a faster increase in resistance, while lower-end trainers may only simulate gradients (up to 7%).

When simulating the gradient, the trainer must take into account your weight and your bike’s weight to provide a realistic road-like feel. Heavier riders need to exert more power than lighter riders to climb uphill, and the trainer should reflect this.

Shane Miller (GPLama) did a great video demonstrating this feature.

Indoor Smart Trainers - Unlocking True Gradient Simulation // Tacx Neo Demo
Bike trainers’ gradient simulation explained

Accuracy

The accuracy of a trainer refers to the deviation in power output at a specific level of power. For instance, if you ride at 250W, and the deviation of your trainer is 2%, your actual power output will be in the range of 245-255W.

Typically, more expensive smart bike trainers are more accurate than cheaper models. High-end trainers have an accuracy of ±1%, mid-range trainers have an accuracy of ±2.5%, and the accuracy of lower-end smart trainers can be up to ±5%.

The following table shows the power variance for different levels of trainer accuracy and power output.

Accuracy250W500W1000W2000W
1%247.5-252.5495-505990-10101980-2020
2%245-255490-510980-10201960-2040
3%242.5-257.5485-515970-10301940-2060
4%240-260480-520960-10401920-2080
5%237.5-262.5475-525950-10501900-2100
Bike trainer accuracy for specific accuracy rate (1%, 2%...) and power output (250W, 500W, 1000W, 2000W)

Noisiness

If you don’t have a dedicated room for training, investing in a quiet bike trainer is a good idea.

When I used a wheel-on bike trainer, it was so noisy that it disturbed other household members. I had to use headphones or turn up the volume on my speakers to watch something during training.

The quietest trainers have a noise level of around 55dB, which is quieter than a normal conversation. In fact, the sound of your bike’s drivetrain will be often louder than the trainer itself.

TIP: Follow these tips to make your trainer quieter.

App Compatibility and Interactivity

There are two types of smart bike trainers:

  1. Interactive smart bike trainers can adjust the resistance based on the training app (Zwift, ROUVY, TrainerRoad, etc.).
  2. Noninteractive smart bike trainers can’t adjust the resistance but can still transmit your ride data to the training app.

While non-interactive trainers can be a good option if you don’t need interactivity, I recommend investing a little more in an interactive trainer for a more road-like ride and a more engaging training experience.

You might be interested in the best indoor cycling apps.

Smart trainers are connected to training apps via ANT+ or Bluetooth protocols. DC Rainmaker goes in-depth in his article, so feel free to read it if you are a techie.

One of the article’s main points is that if you use your smart bike trainer via a desktop app, you need an ANT+ USB adapter that ensures connectivity with your computer and trainer.

Smart trainers with WiFi (Elite Justo, Wahoo KICKR v6) started becoming more common in 2022.

They save you slots for more devices when you use Apple TV, for example. They can also upgrade their firmware automatically.

Other Features to Consider

  • Bike compatibility – direct-drive trainers may not be compatible with every bike. Double-check the compatibility to avoid an unpleasant surprise when setting up your bike.
  • Weight – heavier trainers tend to be more stable but less portable. If you are limited by space and need to hide the trainer often, I recommend choosing a more compact and lighter trainer.
  • Flywheel weight – flywheel is one of the most important parts of a bike trainer. Together with the resistance unit, it creates resistance. Remember, though, that the heavier flywheel doesn’t necessarily mean a better, more road-like ride feel. If you can’t try the trainer in person, check out the reviews of other customers.
  • Side-to-side movement – is suitable when riding from the saddle and during sprints. The overall feeling of riding a trainer with this feature is closer to riding a bike outside.

What Smart Trainers Do Pros Use?

The following table shows the smart trainers that World Tour teams use.

TeamSmart Trainer
AG2R Citroën TeamElite Suito (Suito-T)
Alpecin-DeceuninckWahoo KICKR
Astana Qazaqstan TeamTacx NEO 2T
Bahrain – VictoriousElite Suito (Suito-T)
BORA – hansgroheWahoo KICKR
CofidisElite Direto XR
EF Education-EasyPostWahoo KICKR
Groupama – FDJElite Justo
INEOS GrenadiersTacx NEO 2T
Intermarché – Wanty – Gobert MatériauxElite Suito (Suito-T)
Jumbo-VismaTacx NEO 2T
Movistar TeamElite Suito (Suito-T)
Soudal – Quick StepTacx NEO 2T
Team Arkéa SamsicElite Suito (Suito-T)
Team dsm-firmenichElite Direto XR
Team Jayco AlUlaTacx NEO 2T
Lidl-TrekWahoo KICKR
UAE-Team EmiratesElite Justo
An overview of World Tour pro cycling teams and the smart trainers they use in the 2023 season.

Smart Bike Trainers FAQ

More bike trainers FAQs answered.

Recent Updates
  • Nov 29, 2023: Replaced the KICKR Core with the KICKR Snap as it provides better value due to the permanent discount.
  1. Only when purchasing from the official online stores of Zwift and Wahoo. ↩︎

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