Tacx NEO Bike vs. NEO Bike Plus: Minor Improvements, Significant Price Bump

Tacx NEO Bike on the left side vs. Tacx NEO Bike Plus on the right side.

CyclistsHub is supported by its readers. We may receive a commission if you buy products using our links (learn more).

This is my (early) comparison of the Tacx NEO Bike vs. Tacx NEO Bike Plus, which has just been introduced.

The main difference between Tacx NEO Bike 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?

Probably not.

Let’s check out the details.

Tacx NEO Bike vs. NEO Bike Plus: Technical Specifications

Here is the summary of the main differences between Tacx NEO Bike vs. NEO Bike Plus.

FeatureTacx NEO BikeTacx NEO Bike Plus
Resistance2200W2200W
Gradient simulation25%25%
Entire bike tilt
Decline simulationnot specified, but can simulate freewheelingnot specified, but can simulate freewheeling
Power accuracy±1%±1%
Auto zero
Virtual shifting
Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo shifting
Tablet holder
Fans
Power required
Flywheel275lb / 125kg (virtual)275lb / 125kg (virtual)
Crank lengths170, 172.5 and 175mm165, 167.5, 170, 172.5 and 175mm
Adjustable fitStack, reach, setback, saddle heightStack, reach, setback, saddle height (everything is more precise)
MetricsSpeed, power, cadenceSpeed, power, cadence
ConnectivityANT+ FEC, BluetoothANT+ FEC, Bluetooth
Q-factor147mm148mm
Weight110 lb
50 kg
110 lb
50 kg
Weight limit275 lb
125 kg
275 lb
125 kg
Buy (USA)Check Price
Check Price (Amazon)
Check Price
Buy (UK, EU)n/aCheck Price
Comparison of Tacx NEO Bike and NEO Bike Plus smart bikes features like resistance, gradient & decline simulation, power accuracy, etc.

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
Garmin | Tacx NEO Bike Plus| Smart Bike
Tacx NEO Bike Plus introduction

Tacx NEO Bike Plus Reviews

Immediately after the end of the embargo, 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. But he found design and accuracy issues. Watch his video for more details.

Garmin TACX NEO Bike Plus // A Disappointing Smart Bike Refresh

Tacx NEO Bike vs. NEO Bike Plus FAQ

My Verdict

I am not sponsored by Garmin (Tacx), so I couldn’t get 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 has no WiFi or Ethernet port (which is not such a big deal), and has accuracy issues (check out GPLama review).

For this price, you expect nothing but the best. Unfortunately, Tacx failed to deliver.

About The Author

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top