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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.
| Feature | Tacx NEO Bike | Tacx NEO Bike Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance | 2200W | 2200W |
| Gradient simulation | 25% | 25% |
| Entire bike tilt | ❌ | ❌ |
| Decline simulation | not specified, but can simulate freewheeling | not specified, but can simulate freewheeling |
| Power accuracy | ±1% | ±1% |
| Auto zero | ✅ | ✅ |
| Virtual shifting | ✅ | ✅ |
| Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo shifting | ❌ | ✅ |
| Tablet holder | ✅ | ✅ |
| Fans | ✅ | ✅ |
| Power required | ❌ | ❌ |
| 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 (USA) | Check Price Check Price (Amazon) | Check Price |
| Buy (UK, EU) | n/a | Check Price |
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 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.
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.
Also available at wiggle.com
