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The main difference between Tacx NEO Bikeย and NEO Bike Plus is that NEO Bike Plus has improved levers for setting the right fit and more crank-length options. It also has more ergonomic hoods and can mimic Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo. Unfortunately, it’s much more expensive and has a few other issues.
So, is it worth paying more? I don’t think so.
Let’s check out the details.
Tacx NEO Bike vs. NEO Bike Plus: Technical Specifications
Here is the summary of the main differences between the Tacx NEO Bike and NEO Bike Plus.
| Feature | Tacx NEO Bike | Tacx NEO Bike Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance | 2200W | 2200W |
| Gradient simulation | 25% | 25% |
| Entire bike tilt | โ | โ |
| Decline simulation | not specified, but can simulate freewheeling | not specified, but can simulate freewheeling |
| Power accuracy | ยฑ1% | ยฑ1% |
| Auto zero | โ | โ |
| Virtual shifting | โ | โ |
| Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo shifting | โ | โ |
| Tablet holder | โ | โ |
| Fans | โ | โ |
| Power required | โ | โ |
| Flywheel | 275lb / 125kg (virtual) | 275lb / 125kg (virtual) |
| Crank lengths | 170, 172.5 and 175mm | 165, 167.5, 170, 172.5 and 175mm |
| Adjustable fit | Stack, reach, setback, saddle height | Stack, reach, setback, saddle height (everything is more precise) |
| Metrics | Speed, power, cadence | Speed, power, cadence |
| Connectivity | ANT+ FEC, Bluetooth | ANT+ FEC, Bluetooth |
| Q-factor | 147mm | 148mm |
| Weight | 110 lb 50 kg | 110 lb 50 kg |
| Weight limit | 275 lb 125 kg | 275 lb 125 kg |
| Buy | Discontinued | Check Price Also available at tredz.co.uk |
What’s New?
Tacx NEO Bike and NEO Bike Plus are similar to a large extent. So, what’s new?
- Improved ergonomics (hoods)
- Possibility to mimic Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo shifting
- 2 new crank lengths (165 and 167.5mm)
- Redesigned levers for adjusting the fit
- Seattube is narrower by 10mm
- Increased Q-factor (from 147 to 148mm)
- Higher price
Tacx NEO Bike Plus Reviews
Immediately after the embargo ended, several reviews were published. However, the best (and most honest) is the one from GPLama.
In summary, he likes the new ergonomics of the shifters (‘Best in class’) and levers. However, he found design and accuracy issues. You can watch his video for more details.
My Verdict
I am not sponsored by Garmin (Tacx), so I haven’t gotten my hands on the NEO Bike Plus (yet). It has some cool improvements, like the hood’s ergonomics or the possibility to mimic Shimano, SRAM, or Campagnolo shifting.
Unfortunately, it’s much more expensive than the previous generation, still lacks WiFi or Ethernet, and has accuracy issues (check out the GPLama review).
For this price, you expect nothing but the best. Unfortunately, Tacx failed to deliver. If you decide to buy it anyway, please consider using the link below.
